Neck Pain Physiotherapy in Preston | Cervical Spine & Headache Specialist
Neck Pain, Headaches, and Arm Symptoms
Neck pain is the fourth leading cause of disability worldwide and one of the most common reasons people attend physiotherapy. It ranges from acute stiffness after waking in an awkward position, to chronic pain from years of desk-based posture, to radiating pain or numbness into the arm from cervical nerve root compression.
The cervical spine is also one of the most common sources of referred pain into the head, shoulder, and arm — which means many patients with headaches, shoulder pain, or tingling fingers are actually experiencing neck pain presenting elsewhere.
Neck Conditions We Treat
- Acute mechanical neck pain — sudden onset stiffness or pain
- Chronic neck pain — longstanding symptoms, often postural in origin
- Cervicogenic headaches — headaches originating from the cervical spine
- Cervical radiculopathy — nerve root compression causing arm pain, pins and needles, or weakness
- Whiplash associated disorder — following road traffic accident or sudden impact
- Cervical spondylosis — age-related degenerative changes in the neck
- Upper cervical dysfunction — including suboccipital stiffness
- Thoracic outlet syndrome — nerve and vascular compression
Cervicogenic Headaches — When Your Headache Is a Neck Problem
Headaches arising from the cervical spine are frequently misidentified as tension headaches or migraines. Cervicogenic headache typically presents as one-sided head pain, often starting at the base of the skull and spreading forward.
Physiotherapy — specifically targeted cervical mobilisation and stabilisation — is one of the most effective treatments.
Cervical Radiculopathy — Nerve Symptoms Into the Arm
Pins and needles, numbness, burning, or weakness travelling from the neck into the arm may indicate nerve involvement.
Specialist physiotherapy including nerve mobilisation and loading programmes is highly effective.
Your Treatment Programme May Include:
- Cervical and thoracic mobilisation and manipulation
- Deep neck flexor strengthening
- Neural mobilisation exercises
- Postural retraining and workstation advice
- Headache management strategies
- Graded return to activity
- Referral guidance if required
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually not. Most cases respond well to physiotherapy, but we screen for serious symptoms.
Not necessarily. Imaging findings are common and not always linked to symptoms.
Typically 4–10 sessions depending on severity and chronicity.
Ready to Get Started?
Initial Assessment + First Treatment Session — £50
Your first appointment includes a full specialist assessment and your first treatment session.
No GP referral needed. Insurance recognised. Call 01772 288065 or book online.
Book Online