Physiotherapy for neck pain

Physiotherapy for neck pain

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Condition

Neck pain – modern, active therapy

Neck pain is one of the most common complaints of all. Long periods of sitting, one-sided strain, stress and lack of exercise often play a combined role.

Good to know: wear and tear in the joints and discs of the cervical spine is very common and not a cause for concern on its own – many people have it without feeling any pain. With targeted physiotherapy, regular exercise and a well-set-up workstation, neck complaints can be treated and prevented well in most cases.

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Physiotherapy for neck pain

Assessment

Our approach

1 · SafetyScreeningWe check for warning signs – for example after accidents, with nerve symptoms or dizziness – and test the safety of the cervical spine before every treatment.
2 · ExaminationMovement and nervesMobility, joint function, muscle strength and control, and the nerves to the arms and head are specifically examined.
3 · InterpretationThe whole pictureWith an ICF-based analysis and questionnaires such as NDI, BNQ, HADS and FABQ we also assess work, stress and sleep.
4 · TreatmentHands-on and exerciseManual therapy, targeted exercises for strength and control, ergonomic advice and a clear home programme.

Scientific evidence

What works for neck pain

Cochrane Review 2025Hands-on treatment and exercise combinedManual therapy combined with exercise clearly reduces neck pain compared with no treatment and improves function and quality of life.
WhiplashGetting active helpsA review of whiplash shows that serious injuries are rare. An early return to normal activities, self-directed exercise and manual therapy promote recovery.
What slows recoveryNeck collars and restNeck collars, long periods of rest and negative expectations delay recovery and increase the risk of persistent complaints.

Our conclusion: Hands-on treatment relieves pain and restores mobility; training makes the neck resilient in the long term. That is why we combine both – and explain what you can do yourself.

Whiplash

After accidents

Whiplash (WAD)

Whiplash often occurs in rear-end collisions. Key to a good recovery are an accurate classification of symptoms, reassurance through clear information and active, well-dosed treatment.

We support you according to current guidelines – including case management in consultation with doctors and insurers.

  • Grade I: neck pain, stiffness, no physical signs
  • Grade II: additionally reduced mobility and tenderness
  • Grade III: additionally neurological signs
  • Grade IV: fracture or dislocation – medical treatment first

Classification according to the Quebec Task Force. Most whiplash injuries are grade I or II.

Other consequences of accidents

Contusions, sprains and concussion

In an accident, the neck is rarely the only area affected. That is why we examine the whole picture and also treat accompanying injuries.

ContusionBruisesPain, swelling and bruising after a blow or impact – for example to the shoulder, chest (seat belt), knee or hip. After a short period of rest, early, dosed movement helps restore mobility and strength.
SprainLigament and muscle strainsThe cervical spine, thoracic spine, shoulder or ankle are often also affected. Targeted mobilisation and progressive training restore stability and load capacity.
ConcussionDizziness and headachesIf dizziness, headaches or neck pain persist, a combination of neck and balance therapy helps. A medical assessment comes first.
Head and jawJaw and facial complaintsThe jaw joint and chewing muscles can also hurt after an accident. More under Head, face and jaw complaints.
CourseGetting active early pays offAround half of those affected still have symptoms one year after whiplash, about one in ten significant ones. High initial pain, many symptoms and great distress increase the risk – which is why we assess these factors early.
ConcussionPhysiotherapy speeds up recoveryIn a randomised trial, 73% of those receiving neck and balance therapy were cleared to return to sport after eight weeks – compared with 7% with standard care.

Indications

We treat

  • Acute and persistent neck pain
  • Pain radiating into the arms or thoracic spine
  • Disc problems of the cervical spine
  • Nerve root irritation (radiculopathy)
  • Complaints after surgery
  • Complaints after accidents, e.g. whiplash
  • Cervicogenic headache and dizziness
  • Muscle tension

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about neck pain

Is my neck pain caused by posture?

There is no single «correct» posture. Staying in the same position for a long time is usually more of a problem. Regular changes of position, breaks and a strong neck help more than a rigid ideal posture.

Is manipulation of the cervical spine dangerous?

Before any manual treatment we use safety tests to check whether a technique is suitable for you. Gentle mobilisations are often sufficient. We only use short thrust techniques when they are appropriate and safe.

Do I need a neck collar after whiplash?

Usually not. Once a serious injury has been ruled out, early, dosed movement promotes recovery better than immobilisation.

What can I do at work?

Screen at eye level, forearms supported, stand up regularly and move your neck. We show you short exercises that fit easily into your working day.

When should I see a doctor?

With paralysis or increasing weakness in the arms, unsteady gait, severe dizziness with visual or speech disturbances, fever or after a serious accident. We check for these warning signs at the initial assessment.

Sources: Chacko N et al., Cochrane Review 2025 (manual therapy and exercise for neck pain) · McClune T et al., Emerg Med J 2002 (whiplash) · Carroll LJ et al., Spine 2008 (course after whiplash) · Spitzer WO et al., Quebec Task Force 1995 (classification) · Schneider KJ et al., Br J Sports Med 2014 (concussion) · Lin I et al., Br J Sports Med 2020 (guidelines) · More information: svomp

Neck pain?

We examine you thoroughly and show you the way back to a mobile neck.

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