Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints among adults in the UK. Whether it’s a dull ache after a long day at your desk or sharp discomfort that radiates into your arms, persistent neck pain can seriously disrupt daily life.
At London Spine Health, we help patients identify the root cause of their neck pain and provide expert-led treatment that targets long-term relief — not just temporary fixes.
What Causes Neck Pain?
The neck (cervical spine) is a highly flexible and delicate structure, supporting the head’s full weight while allowing movement in nearly every direction. However, this flexibility also makes it prone to strain, injury, and degenerative changes.
Common causes of neck pain include:
Poor posture: Slouching over a desk, mobile phone use, or sleeping in an awkward position
Muscle strain: Often from overuse, heavy lifting, or sudden movement
Whiplash injury: Common after car accidents or sports collisions
Cervical spondylosis: Age-related wear and tear of the spinal discs and joints
Herniated disc: When a disc bulges and compresses a nerve
Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck
Inflammatory conditions: Such as rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis
Some patients also report increased pain with stress, anxiety, or lack of sleep, all of which can cause the muscles around the neck to tighten.
Common Symptoms of Neck Pain
Neck pain symptoms can vary in intensity and type depending on the cause. You may experience:
Persistent dull ache or sharp pain in the neck
Pain that worsens with movement or prolonged sitting
Stiffness or reduced ability to turn the head
Headaches, often starting from the base of the skull
Pain radiating to the shoulders, arms, or upper back
Numbness or tingling in the hands or fingers
Muscle spasms or a “locked neck”
These symptoms may start slowly or come on suddenly after an injury or strain. If left untreated, they can lead to chronic pain or nerve damage.
When Should You See a Specialist?
While minor neck pain often resolves within a few days, you should seek professional help if:
The pain lasts more than two weeks
It interferes with your work, sleep, or mobility
You notice weakness or numbness in your arms or hands
Pain follows an injury, such as a car accident or fall
Over-the-counter medications and stretching do not improve your symptoms
At London Spine Health, we offer early diagnosis, imaging, and tailored treatment plans to prevent long-term complications and get you moving again.
How We Treat Neck Pain at London Spine Health
Our consultant spine surgeon, Mr Irfan Malik, leads a multidisciplinary team that treats both acute and chronic neck pain using the most advanced techniques available in the UK.
Your treatment plan may include:
Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises to improve strength, mobility, and posture
Pain management: Medications, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants
Postural correction and ergonomic advice: For long-term prevention
Spinal injections: Corticosteroid or nerve block injections for nerve-related pain
Minimally invasive surgery: For herniated discs or spinal stenosis
Robotic-assisted spine surgery: Where advanced precision is required
Every patient receives individualised care tailored to their condition, lifestyle, and recovery goals.
How to Prevent Neck Pain
Preventing neck pain starts with small, consistent changes to your habits. Here are some expert tips:
Maintain good posture, especially when working at a desk
Take regular breaks from screens or mobile devices
Use a supportive pillow and sleep on your back or side
Avoid cradling your phone between your ear and shoulder
Strengthen your upper back and core muscles to support your spine
Stretch daily, especially if you sit for long hours
If you’re prone to neck tension or stiffness, regular physiotherapy or massage therapy may also help keep discomfort at bay.
Book a Neck Pain Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing ongoing neck discomfort, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Early assessment and expert treatment can prevent more serious spinal issues down the line.
