Neck Pain: Who is Affected and How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Understanding Neck Pain

Neck pain is a common issue, with 65% of people experiencing it at some point in their lives. It is particularly prevalent among office workers, gym-goers, and individuals aged 45-54. Interestingly, women are 40% more likely to suffer from neck pain than men, and they also tend to experience longer-lasting symptoms.

If you are struggling with neck pain in Manchester, seeking help from a physiotherapist in Manchester City Centre can be a game-changer. At Athos Physio, we specialise in physiotherapy for neck pain, helping patients regain mobility and live pain-free lives.

Who is Most Affected by Neck Pain?

1. Women Are More Likely to Suffer from Neck Pain

Studies show that women experience neck pain 40% more frequently than men, and when they do, their symptoms often persist for a longer duration. Hormonal changes, musculoskeletal differences, and lifestyle habits may contribute to this disparity.

2. Office Workers and Desk-Based Professionals

If you work at a desk, you are at high risk of developing chronic neck pain due to:

• Poor posture and prolonged screen time

• Forward head position ("tech neck")

• Inadequate workstation ergonomics

For those searching for physiotherapy in Manchester to relieve desk-related neck pain, Athos Physio offers tailored treatments that address postural imbalances and muscular tightness.

3. Gym-Goers and Athletes

While exercise is essential for overall health, gym enthusiasts and sports athletes can suffer from neck pain due to improper weightlifting techniques, muscle strain, and repetitive movements.

At Athos Physiotherapy, we provide sports physiotherapy in Manchester for athletes dealing with neck injuries, offering rehabilitation plans that restore strength, mobility, and function.

4. People with Poor Sleeping Habits

A bad pillow, awkward sleeping position, or lack of spinal support can lead to morning neck stiffness. If you frequently wake up with discomfort, it may be time to evaluate your sleeping posture and consider physiotherapy massage in Manchester for muscle relief.

5. Middle-Aged Adults (45-54 Years Old)

The 45-54 age group is the most commonly affected by neck pain, often due to:

• Age-related degenerative changes such as osteoarthritis and disc wear

• Prolonged postural stress from work or lifestyle habits

• Reduced flexibility and muscle strength

For middle-aged individuals experiencing persistent neck pain in Manchester, physiotherapy treatments at Athos Physio can help alleviate discomfort and improve mobility.

6. Individuals with a Sedentary Lifestyle

Lack of movement weakens postural muscles, leading to increased strain on the neck. Sitting for extended periods can worsen stiffness and discomfort, making physiotherapy in Manchester a great option for treatment and posture correction.

7. Those Experiencing High Stress Levels

Stress and anxiety often manifest as muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders, leading to:

• Tension headaches

• Reduced neck mobility

• Persistent muscle stiffness

If stress is causing chronic neck pain, a deep tissue massage in Manchester or physio massage at Athos Physio can help release muscle tension and promote relaxation.

8. Individuals with Pre-Existing Conditions

Medical conditions such as:

• Herniated discs

• Whiplash injuries

• Fibromyalgia and arthritis

…can significantly contribute to neck pain. If you are dealing with a pre-existing condition and need expert guidance, our physiotherapy biomechanics specialists in Manchester can develop a custom rehabilitation plan to restore function and reduce pain.

How Athos Physio Can Help with Neck Pain

At Athos Physio in Manchester City Centre, our expert physiotherapists use evidence-based techniques to:

• Relieve muscle tension with physiotherapy massage

• Improve posture and spinal alignment

• Enhance mobility through targeted exercises

• Reduce inflammation with manual therapy techniques

• Provide tailored rehabilitation plans for chronic pain sufferers

If you are searching for the physiotherapy in Manchester to help with neck pain, sports physiotherapy, or deep tissue massage, book an appointment today at Athos Physiotherapy.

Mechanical Neck Pain: Causes and Symptoms

What is Mechanical Neck Pain?

Mechanical neck pain is the most common type of neck pain and occurs due to strain or dysfunction in the muscles, joints, ligaments, or discs of the cervical spine. It is usually caused by poor posture, repetitive strain, muscle imbalances, or age-related wear and tear. Unlike nerve-related neck pain, which may cause numbness or tingling, mechanical neck pain primarily affects movement and muscle function.

At Athos Physio in Manchester City Centre, we specialise in treating mechanical neck pain with targeted physiotherapy, manual therapy, and rehabilitation exercises.

Common Causes of Mechanical Neck Pain

1. Poor Posture and Desk Work

Sitting for long periods with slouched shoulders or a forward head position places excessive strain on the cervical spine and surrounding muscles. Office workers, students, and remote professionals are particularly prone to this.

2. Muscle Strain and Overuse

Repetitive movements, heavy lifting, or prolonged periods of holding the head in a fixed position (e.g., looking at a screen or phone for hours) can lead to muscle imbalances and chronic neck tension.

3. Joint Stiffness and Spinal Misalignment

Stiffness in the facet joints of the cervical spine can restrict movement, making it difficult to turn the head or maintain proper posture. This stiffness often develops due to poor movement patterns, ageing, or injury.

4. Sleeping in the Wrong Position

Using an unsupportive pillow, sleeping in an awkward position, or tossing and turning at night can lead to muscle tightness and discomfort in the morning.

5. Stress and Muscle Tension

Emotional stress causes tightening of the neck and shoulder muscles, leading to increased stiffness, headaches, and movement restrictions.

6. Age-Related Degeneration

As we age, the discs and joints of the neck naturally wear down, leading to conditions like cervical spondylosis or osteoarthritis, which contribute to chronic mechanical neck pain.

Main Symptoms of Mechanical Neck Pain

Individuals experiencing mechanical neck pain may notice:

• Pain and stiffness in the neck, often worsening with movement or prolonged positions

• Limited range of motion, especially when turning the head

• Muscle tightness and tension, particularly in the upper shoulders and base of the skull

• Tenderness around the neck, especially when pressing on certain areas

• Pain that improves with movement or stretching but worsens after periods of inactivity

• Headaches originating from neck tension (cervicogenic headaches)

• Occasional discomfort in the upper back and shoulders due to compensatory strain

If left untreated, mechanical neck pain can become chronic, limiting mobility and affecting daily activities.

How Physiotherapy Can Help Treat Mechanical Neck Pain

At Athos Physio in Manchester, we provide specialist physiotherapy for mechanical neck pain using:

• Postural correction and ergonomic advice for desk workers

• Manual therapy and joint mobilisation to improve spinal alignment

• Soft tissue and deep tissue massage to relieve muscle tension

• Targeted strengthening and mobility exercises

• Biomechanics physiotherapy to correct movement patterns

If you are suffering from mechanical neck pain in Manchester, book an appointment at Athos Physio in Manchester City Centre for expert treatment.