Call 000 for neck pain after a traumatic accident, or neck pain with chest pain, breathlessness or sweating. Urgent assessment is needed for new weakness, numbness, balance problems, fever, confusion or bladder or bowel changes.
What neck pain can feel like
Symptoms can include aching, stiffness, tenderness or difficulty turning the head. Pain may also be felt around the shoulder or upper back. A sprain involves a ligament; a strain involves muscle or tendon. These terms describe tissue injuries, but symptoms alone cannot confirm one.
Record whether the problem began after a collision, a sporting incident or a change in activity. Also mention headaches, dizziness, arm symptoms and any previous neck problems.
Whiplash and symptoms after a collision
Whiplash describes an acceleration–deceleration mechanism that can affect the neck. Symptoms after an accident need an appropriate clinical assessment, particularly when other injuries or neurological symptoms are possible.
Do not assume that every symptom after a collision is a simple muscle strain. Tell the treating clinician about the incident, the timing of symptoms and any changes since it occurred.
What the assessment looks for
An assessment may consider movement, pain behaviour, strength, sensation and the demands of your daily activities. Your clinician should explain which findings are relevant and whether medical investigation is needed.
Ask whether a proposed scan will answer a specific clinical question. Imaging decisions should follow clinical assessment and the possibility of a condition that needs investigation.
A practical care plan
Options may include exercise, movement advice and manual techniques. These options should be considered in light of your diagnosis and preferences, with a clear explanation of risks and alternatives.
Discuss the activities that are difficult, such as driving, desk work, overhead tasks or sleep. Ask for a plan that explains suitable movement, practical adjustments and when progress should be reviewed. Avoid treating a single posture measurement as a complete explanation for pain.
Prepare for an assessment
Write down when the problem started, what brings it on, what eases it and what has changed. Bring relevant reports and a medicines list. Describe the activities you want to regain, rather than only giving a pain score.
- What is the working diagnosis, and what remains uncertain?
- What findings would change the plan or need medical review?
- What can I do between appointments?
- How will we measure progress and decide whether to change treatment?
Care in Melbourne’s northern suburbs
For people in Epping, Mill Park, Lalor, Reservoir and surrounding suburbs, the Muscle Joint Bone team can help arrange an appropriate starting appointment. Confirm current services, practitioner availability and any referral or funding requirements.
Sources and further reading
- Northern Spinal: original neck-pain resource
- Healthdirect: neck pain
General education only. An assessment is needed to determine what applies to you.
