The neck, or cervical spine, has the important job of providing support and mobility for the head, which can weigh about 11 pounds—the approximate weight of a medium bowling ball.

The neck—or cervical spine—is a coordinated network of nerves, bones, joints, and muscles directed by the brain and the spinal cord. It is designed for strength, stability, and nerve communication. Commonly, there are a number of problems that cause pain in the neck. Additionally, irritation along the nerve pathways can cause pain into the shoulder, head, arm, and hand. Irritation of the spinal cord can cause pain into the legs and other areas below the neck.

Various problems in the cervical spine can compress a nerve root or the spinal cord and cause neck pain and/or neurological (pinched nerve) symptoms.

Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder causing progressive deterioration of cartilage. The body reacts by forming new bone termed osteophytes (bone spurs) that impact joint motion.

Spinal Stenosis causes the foramen, small neural passageways, to narrow possibly compressing and entrapping nerve roots. Stenosis may cause neck, shoulder, and arm pain and numbness when these nerves are unable to function normally.

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) can cause the intervertebral discs to become less hydrated, resulting in decreased disc elasticity and height. Over time, a disc may bulge or herniate causing upper extremity pain, tingling, and numbness.

Everyday Life:  Poor posture, obesity, and weak abdominal muscles disrupt the spine’s balance often causing the neck to bend forward to compensate. Stress and emotional tension can cause muscles to tighten and contract resulting in pain and stiffness.

Cervicogenic Headache-Headache arising due to compression of the nerve roots at the neck.

Cervical Postural Syndrome– Neck pain typically due to an abnormal posture. Common postural faults include chin protrusion, usually as a result of forward head posture. Excessive curvature of the upper cervical spine leading to subsequent irritation of the soft tissues at the back of the neck.

At Asiya we do a systematic examination of your spine and design a rehabilitation programme accordingly.

Rehabilitation includes of pain management strategies via:

  • Mobilization
  • Acupuncture
  • Cupping
  • Kinesiology taping
  • Electrotherapy modalities

Once the pain is under control we start with a planned time-oriented exercise programme including:

  • Muscle strength training
  • Muscle stretching
  • Postural correction and
  • Fitness training

Also, thorough ergonomic advice is given to our patients.