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Neck pain — causes, fixes & when to see a physio

Neck pain is common, usually not serious, and often eases within a few weeks. Whether it’s a stiff neck after a long day at your desk, waking up unable to turn your head, pain after a car accident, or pins and needles down your arm, we’ll help you understand what’s going on and get you moving again.

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Man working at a laptop, rubbing his stiff neck

Quick answers

  • Should I rest it?

    No, keep it moving. Gentle movement every hour and carrying on with your normal activities, even if more slowly, help you recover. Don’t wear a collar unless a doctor advises it.

  • Do I need a scan?

    Usually not. Neck pain is normally diagnosed from your symptoms and an examination. Age-related changes on scans are common in people with no pain at all.

  • How long until it improves?

    Most neck pain settles within a few weeks, with the biggest change early on. Whiplash and trapped nerves can take longer, and neck pain often comes back, so we’ll help you stay on top of it.

Common symptoms and patterns

  • Pain and stiffness after a long day at a desk, driving or looking down at your phone.
  • Waking up with your neck stuck to one side and sharp pain when you turn.
  • Neck pain, stiffness and headaches after a car accident, fall or sports injury, sometimes starting hours later.
  • Pain, pins and needles or numbness spreading down one arm into your hand.
  • Clicking or grinding when you turn your head, which is common and not usually a sign of damage.

Try this now: safe self-care

Do

  • Keep your neck moving: gentle movements every hour, and carry on with normal activities, even if more slowly.
  • Use a low, firm pillow, and heat or a cold pack wrapped in a towel.
  • Take paracetamol or ibuprofen, or use ibuprofen gel, if they suit you. Ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines.

Avoid (for now)

  • Wearing a neck collar, unless a doctor tells you to.
  • Driving or cycling if you can’t turn your head properly.
  • Staying in one position for long spells, or sleeping on your front.

If you’re unsure, book an assessment — we’ll tailor this to your goals.

Book an assessment

When to see us

  • Neck pain or stiffness that isn’t easing after a few weeks.
  • Pins and needles, numbness or pain spreading down your arm.
  • Headaches that seem to come from your neck, or neck pain that keeps coming back.

Ready to get moving?

Same-week appointments at Long Eaton, Pride Park, and Kedleston Road. Prefer to be seen at home? We also offer home visits across Nottingham & Derby. Book an appointment online or call 0115 972 1319.

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What our Neck patients say

What our patients say

  • Katrina T.

    7 months ago on Google

    I was referred to impact physiotherapy by my gp when I had whiplash. All the staff are very professional, friendly and happy to help you. McGregor my physiotherapist at impact was very good and helpful with my road to recovery. Miss k Taylor

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  • JF

    Patient review

    I had been struggling with neck and shoulder pain for months, and nothing was easing this, attending physio with fiona was so helpful, she was able to give me treatment and advise at each session, and exercise to do in-between visits which helped release the tension in my neck and shoulder, each session was greeted with a smiling face and fiona listen carefully to what I had to say and was able to give me positive advise. I always came away feeling positive. I have now finished my sessions and have got a plan and excersie to ensure my problem is kept manageable. I would like to say thankyou to Fiona, and would recommend impact physio.

  • David O.

    Patient review

    I suffered a trapped nerve which caused a tingling down my left arm and a severe itch on the palm of my hand. It took the Physio no more than 2 minutes to find the problem at the base of my neck and about 10 minutes to devise a series of excercises lasting no more than 15 minutes a day. Within 4 weeks the problem has completely gone. Well done and thank you.

  • NB

    Patient review

    Very professional and helpful service here. Different sort of set up in an office upstairs in the velodrome, but out of the way of the public and private. 6 sessions got my neck back to normal, the treatment combined with personal exercises for me to do at home worked wonders

  • DB

    Patient review

    I had been suffering with a chronic stiff neck and pins and needles in my right hand and got referred to see Sally at Impact. At our initial consultation, Sally talked me through the issue and recommended a series of exercises and after just two sessions, the pain and pins and needles has gone! I highly recommende the team at Impact and can’t speak highly enough of Sally.

  • Steve G.

    Patient review

    Saw Sally Moore with a problematic neck which was causing headaches and was treated to a thorough examination, both verbal and physical, leading to exercises that dramatically lessened the discomfort in 7 days and am now almost back to normal. Brilliant service.

  • Kathie M.

    2 years ago on Google

    I saw Julie Lee at Impact for neck pain and restricted movement. She gave me exercises and useful advice. Over the visits I was also able to confirm I was doing hand exercises correctly ( given by video from MSK). She was also so approachable about hip/leg pain that my GP had sent me to another Physio service that I’d seen once and given exercises. My mobility was deteriorating and she checked my leg/ hip movements and said she thought I needed a second opinion and would write to my GP. Julie Lee is a great professional and very caring. Definitely recommend IMPACT Physiotherapy. Thank you

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  • Helen T.

    2 years ago on Google

    I recently attended Impact Physio for treatment on my neck & shoulder. Impact Physio based at Pride Park, Derby was easy to get to with plenty of parking located at Derby Arena. I was treated by Alan Beer from Impact Physio over several months. I was made to feel comfortable throughout the Physio session & found the treatment helpful for my condition. I would highly recommend Impact Physio.

    Google review of Pride Park

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  • Sue S.

    6 years ago on Google

    Would totally recommend Impact Physio, and in particular Annalise. Referred here due to neck/shoulder pain during Covid, the service was safe, professional and most importantly effective. Annalise spent time to really understand the background to my issues to treat the cause, as well as the symptoms

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Viv S.

    8 years ago on Google

    I have suffered with a niggling and sometimes exceptionally painful lower back and neck for years but just thought it was 'one of those things' I had to endure. On speaking with Rachel Royer I decided to request an appointment. After just 2 sessions and armed with simple exercises it has made a world of dfference already! Why didn't I go earlier? My lower back is stronger with a less pronounced curve and I can use my neck without suffering excruciating stabbing pains. Amazing! At IP they have excellent expertise, professionalism and courtesy, plus their plain speaking makes it clear instantly what the issue is and how to address it – ideal. I have also had Craniosacral sessions with Chris and I come away feeling peaceful, empowered, with improved movement and increased self-esteem. My headaches have gone and I am positive it is having a beneficial effect on my digestion. I can't recommend the team enough. Many thanks all. Viv Smith

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Rav B.

    8 years ago on Google

    Wonderful Robyn has helped me with a pain I’ve had in my neck and shoulder, thank you . She’s a Lovely lady too and someone I’d highly recommend.

    Google review of Pride Park

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  • Michael M.

    2 weeks ago on Google

    Very pleased with my progress since i started physio.Easy to talk to and very benificial

    Google review of Pride Park

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  • Benjamin D.

    1 month ago on Google

    I wanted to give a bit of a longer review. I saw Jo about 3 weeks ago about knee pain i'd been having. After a conversation and some diagnostics Jo was able to tell me, accurately, the inury I had and provide me loads of helpful information on treatment. I returned to see Jo today and although my knee is still painful (I have a meniscus tear which will take time to heal), lots of progress has been made and its certainly headed in the right direction. I really could not recommend Jo highly enough, she's friendly, knowledgable and has really helped me. If you're in pain or stuggling with an injuriy that won't go away – get yourself booked in you won't regret it!

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Dominic M.

    1 month ago on Google

    I have been to Impact a number of the times over the years and the team are excellent. I recently seen Peter regarding my disc herniation and he was professional and really support offering excellent advice that has massively helped my recovery. Would recommend to anyone who needs support with their recovery journey

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Kirsty B.

    2 months ago on Google

    Great and friendly service. Alan Beers massively helped me with my frozen shoulder. Would highly recommend.

    Google review of Pride Park

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  • Maryse W.

    2 months ago on Google

    The review below was prepared 7 years ago…..My views about Impact Physiotherapy haven't changed….I am still very pleased with both the Pilates classes and the physiotherapists…..almost 20 years after starting……. My husband and myself have attended Pilates classes at Impact Physiotherapy in Long Eaton for well over 10 years. We highly recommend the classes run by their physiotherapists (small groups and individual attention when it's necessary to adjust exercises because of physical injury etc). When we suffered from back and knee problems respectively, we had no hesitation in contacting Impact physiotherapists for private treatment. We were both very satisfied with the outcome: following a first meeting for medical assessment, the sessions helped us get better, offering professional treatment, plenty of advice and a programme of exercises to do at home. Although sessions are quite pricey, you don't have to wait for an appointment for very long and staff don't try to book you in for more sessions than necessary. We liked their very active approach of getting patients involved in their own recovery!

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Pamela H.

    2 months ago on Google

    After having a hip replacement I was left weak and still struggling to drive after 3 months. I went to Impact and saw Krishna. He has helped me enormously giving me strengthening and stretching exercises. Very professional service and I would highly recommend.

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Helen D.

    3 months ago on Google

    I highly recommend the Strength & Conditioning classes at Impact Long Eaton. I have suffered with Menopause aches and pains for a few years now and was beginning to struggle with moving around without moans and groans as a young 54 year old! I thought exercise was now a no go! Another menopause gift! Combined with some weight loss the Strength & Conditioning classes really helped with building my strength back up and my confidence around weights and to push myself out of my comfort zone. Our instructor Maya takes onboard any issues you may have and the session can be tailored to individual needs. There is always variety between each session and support on how to correctly perform each type of movement. Studio is always clean, tidy and welcoming with all the right equipment provided. I recently saw Julie at Derby Uni for some physio treatment and she could see immediately the difference in my body from the classes. Thank you Team Impact x

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Mark D.

    3 months ago on Google

    I highly recommend the Strength & Conditioning class with Maya at Impact Physio (Long Eaton). As a physiotherapist, Maya brings expert guidance to every movement, providing complete peace of mind that you are training safely. What I Loved: Physio-Led Safety: Maya offers real-time form corrections and expert coaching. Structured Sessions: The layout flows perfectly from warm-ups to technique work and core strength. Tailored for Everyone: Exercises are easily scaled for fitness levels or injury recovery. Confidence Boosting: The supportive, clinical environment eliminates any gym intimidation. It is a fantastic, welcoming class for anyone looking to build a stronger body safely. I will definitely be back!

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Karen S.

    3 months ago on Google

    Very good and friendly staff, very clean and very quick in seeiing patients to help their recovery

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Peter G.

    3 months ago on Google

    I went to Chris at impact physio following hip resurfacing surgery with an aim to get running again. couldn't recommend Impact highly enough, all physio sessions, advice and exercises have really helped me get back to full fitness

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Mandy S.

    4 months ago on Google

    Fantastic friendly service. Very professional and would highly recommend. Finally has really helped me not only with an exercise plan but with her explanations so I can understand my position without technical words!! I feel much more confident going forwards and can't express my gratitude enough.

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • andrew S.

    4 months ago on Google

    I’ve been experiencing knee pain while running so I visited Pete Grey. He examined me thoroughly and offered some valuable tips on improving my running technique. His helpfulness, knowledge and friendly demeanour made the entire visit enjoyable. I highly recommend him and I’ll definitely return if I ever need his expertise again.

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Phil B.

    5 months ago on Google

    I’ve been seeing Alan Beers for an issue I’ve had with my shoulder. He’s a great guy and extremely knowledgeable. I left the session with a good understanding of what had been going wrong and a realistic plan to manage my recovery. The results have been excellent

    Google review of Pride Park

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  • Jo C.

    5 months ago on Google

    Jo is a very approachable, knowledgeable and experienced Physiotherapist. I learnt alot about my issue (and Physiotherapy research in general) during my visits which helped me to understand the problems I was experiencing. Jo was able to give me a physio programme that I could implement in the home very easily. I have confidence that with the continued prescribed strengthening exercises, my issues will be more manageable. Thankyou Jo for your advice, knowledge and humour! I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Jo to anyone needing evidence-based advice from a friendly and experienced Physio.

    Google review of Kedleston Road

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  • Caroline

    5 months ago on Google

    I went to Impact with ongoing shoulder and knee pain that were hindering both gym practice and sleep. After only two sessions and some very helpful exercises (complete with videos), I was ready to be signed off. The support from Julie was warm, friendly, non-judgmental and totally encouraging from start to finish. Explanations and demonstrations were clear and gave me all I needed to know to carry out the exercises at home. Julie was very effective in helping me get back on track and I would highly recommend if considering whether it is right for you.

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Bob H.

    5 months ago on Google

    Had a couple of consultations with Sheridan who has helped me no end with gentle exercises to my arthritic knee No pushing or pulling just really caring support and advice Highly recommended

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  • Simon H.

    6 months ago on Google

    Excellent care and assistance. Has made and injured should many times better. Highly recommend.

    Google review of Pride Park

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  • Jane

    6 months ago on Google

    Great experience this pm with Jo. She was kind helpful and empathetic and happy to do hands on physio to ease my symptoms. Felt so much better after even one session.

    Google review of Kedleston Road

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  • C L.

    6 months ago on Google

    After bouncing around NHS GP & Walk In Centre, finally got the expertise and care I needed here. Very knowledgable physios with the best rehab gym I’ve seen.

    Google review of Kedleston Road

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  • Susannah

    6 months ago on Google

    Cannot thank Pete enough for literally getting me back up and running. Also excellent knowledge and insight into injury, arthritis, bone and muscle conditions – dispelled a number of 'myths' surrounding certain conditions.

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • Rob A.

    6 months ago on Google

    Alan is excellent, friendly and a pleasure to visit. He has given me the exercises I need to help my knee get better. After just over a month and two sessions doing the exercises, I am getting far less pain than I was before.

    Google review of Pride Park

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  • Adrian S.

    6 months ago on Google

    I have struggled for years with swimming related shoulder pains, despite seeing many physios. 1 appointment with Pete Gray was enough to clearly diagnose the issues and develop a rehab programme that has worked. Highly recommended.

    Google review of Long Eaton

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  • amelia

    6 months ago on Google

    Would 100% recommend, I've had 3 sessions with Pete, he's great at what he does, really knowledgeable and helpful, lovely guy

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  • Claire H.

    6 months ago on Google

    I recently had a couple of sessions with the physio Julie Lee to help with my low bone density. I have osteoporosis and need to do weight bearing exercises. Julie was excellent she was knowledgeable, extremely helpful and gave me advice and the exercises to help with my condition. I came away feeling more reassured that with time and guidance I can hopefully reverse and improve my bone decline. Thank you Julie couldn’t have done this without your help and support. Xx

    Google review of Long Eaton

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How we help

  1. Step 1: Assess

    We ask how it started and what makes it better or worse, check your movement, strength and nerves, and screen for anything that needs a doctor. Scans are rarely needed.

  2. Step 2: Plan

    Gentle movement and progressive strengthening for your neck, shoulders and upper back, with hands-on treatment where it helps, plus practical changes to your desk, sleep and daily routine.

  3. Step 3: Return

    Build back up to full work, driving, sport and hobbies, with exercises to keep you moving and a plan for any flare-ups.

Physiotherapist treating a patient's neck and shoulder on the couch

We also offer PhysiotherapyAcupunctureMassage as part of your plan — always alongside active rehab.

Did you know? We also run Pilates, Yoga and Strength & Conditioning classes at our Long Eaton clinic, and Tai Chi in Toton.

Neck conditions and symptoms

  • Likely causes

    There’s usually no single cause, and nothing is damaged. Staying in one position too long, repeated strained movements, stress, poor sleep and being less active can all add up. Your neck is strong, and most neck pain causes no lasting harm.

    What helps

    • Move little and often: gentle neck movements every hour, and regular breaks from the desk.
    • Stay active: keep up work, walking and hobbies, even if more slowly at first.
    • Desk set-up: screen at eye level about an arm’s length away, keyboard and mouse close, and a headset instead of the phone on your shoulder.
    • Comfort: heat or a cold pack wrapped in a towel, a low, firm pillow, and simple painkillers if they suit you.

    How physio helps

    • A clear diagnosis, with checks for anything that needs a doctor.
    • Exercise: mobility and strengthening for your neck, shoulders and upper back. The type of exercise matters less than keeping it up.
    • Hands-on treatment where it helps you move more easily, alongside exercise.
    • Work and lifestyle: breaks, desk set-up, sleep and stress.

    Quick questions

    Is my posture to blame?
    Less than people think. Staying still for too long matters more than having ‘perfect’ posture, so change position and move often.
    What pillow should I use?
    A low, firm pillow that keeps your head level with your body. One is usually enough.
    Will it come back?
    It can: about half of people have another episode. Staying active and building strength help you manage it.
    Can Pilates or yoga help?
    They can. Pilates, yoga and Tai Chi are all useful options, but no type of exercise is clearly best, so choose one you’ll enjoy.

    Ready to get moving?

    Book onlineCall 0115 972 1319

  • Likely causes

    Minor irritation of the muscles and joints in the neck, which sets off pain and spasm. Sleeping awkwardly, sitting badly at a screen or carrying a heavy bag on one side can trigger it, but often there’s no clear reason.

    What helps

    • Gentle movement: turn and tilt your head as far as is comfortable, a few times each side, several times a day.
    • Heat or cold to ease the pain and spasm.
    • Paracetamol or ibuprofen if they suit you.
    • A low, firm pillow at night.

    How physio helps

    • Ease the spasm with gentle hands-on treatment and movement.
    • Restore movement with simple exercises you can do at home.
    • Spot the triggers, such as how you sleep or sit, so it’s less likely to come back.

    Quick questions

    How long will it last?
    Usually a day or two, occasionally up to a week. It often comes back.
    Should I wear a collar?
    No. Moving it helps it settle sooner.
    Can I drive?
    Not until you can turn your head well enough to check traffic safely.
    When should I worry?
    If the stiffness is all over rather than on one side, or comes with a high temperature, a severe headache or a dislike of bright light, call 999 or go to A&E.

    Ready to get moving?

    Book onlineCall 0115 972 1319

  • Likely causes

    A sudden jolt of the head backwards and forwards strains the muscles and ligaments of the neck. It usually doesn’t show on scans and isn’t a sign of serious damage.

    What helps

    • Keep moving: gentle neck and shoulder movement from the start, and carry on with everyday activities. It may hurt a little, but it speeds recovery.
    • No collar: braces and collars don’t help.
    • Pain relief such as paracetamol, so you can keep moving.
    • Heat or ice wrapped in a towel.

    How physio helps

    • Check for serious injury first, and refer you on if needed.
    • Exercise: movement, strengthening and stretching, with some hands-on treatment where it helps.
    • Confidence and pacing: a plan to get you back to normal life, and pointers to extra support if worry about the accident is holding you back.

    Quick questions

    How long does whiplash take to get better?
    It usually gets better within 2–3 months, but some people have symptoms for longer.
    Do I need an X-ray?
    Usually not. X-rays are for people at higher risk of a serious injury, for example after a high-speed crash or a fall from height, or if you’re 65 or over.
    Should I rest?
    No. Resting your neck for long periods slows recovery, so keep up gentle movement and everyday activities.
    When is it urgent?
    If you have severe pain despite painkillers, tingling or weakness in your arms or legs, an ‘electric shock’ feeling down your spine, or problems walking or sitting upright, get urgent advice from your GP or NHS 111.

    Ready to get moving?

    Book onlineCall 0115 972 1319

  • Likely causes

    A nerve in the neck is irritated, often by a disc bulge or age-related changes, or by inflammation around the nerve. Nerves are resilient, and most people get better without surgery.

    What helps

    • Move little and often, and avoid staying in one position for long.
    • Pace yourself: break tasks into smaller chunks and build up gradually.
    • A firm, supportive pillow: one is usually enough.
    • Pain relief to help you keep moving. Your GP can advise on medicines for nerve pain.

    How physio helps

    • A thorough nerve check of feeling, strength and reflexes, repeated as you recover.
    • Exercise and manual therapy, including techniques that ease pressure on the nerve.
    • Referral to your GP or a specialist if symptoms aren’t improving or weakness develops.

    Quick questions

    How long does it take to get better?
    It varies. Many people improve within a few weeks, but it can take months, and symptoms may come and go.
    Do I need an MRI?
    Not usually. A scan may be considered if your symptoms aren’t improving after several weeks, or there are signs of nerve weakness.
    Is the numbness dangerous?
    Tingling is common with an irritated nerve and usually improves. Get urgent advice for weakness that’s getting worse, clumsy hands, problems walking, or bladder or bowel changes.

    Ready to get moving?

    Book onlineCall 0115 972 1319

  • Likely causes

    Age-related changes to the discs and joints of the neck, sometimes called neck osteoarthritis. They’re normal: most people over 40 have them on X-rays or scans, often with no pain at all, and the diagnosis doesn’t mean permanent pain.

    What helps

    • Gentle neck exercises, built up gradually. They’re safe even if a little uncomfortable.
    • Stay active and pace busy days.
    • Pain relief and heat or ice to ease pain and stiffness, but not heat or ice if you have reduced feeling or poor circulation.

    How physio helps

    • A plan for flare-ups, so you know what to do when it stiffens up.
    • Mobility and strengthening for your neck, shoulders and upper back.
    • Checks for nerve or spinal cord symptoms, which need a doctor.

    Quick questions

    Will it keep getting worse?
    Not necessarily. The changes are a normal part of ageing, and many people have them without pain. Flare-ups usually settle, though stiffness can come back.
    How long does a flare-up last?
    Treatment usually takes a few weeks to work, and most flare-ups improve within about 8 weeks.
    Do I need an X-ray?
    Usually not. Changes on X-rays are common in people with no symptoms, so for most people a scan wouldn’t change the treatment.

    Ready to get moving?

    Book onlineCall 0115 972 1319

  • Likely causes

    Problems in the joints and muscles of the neck can cause headaches, for example with neck stiffness, age-related neck changes or after whiplash. Other types of headache are common too, so we look at the whole picture.

    What helps

    • Keep your neck moving and break up long spells at the desk.
    • A low, firm pillow and heat or cold packs can help when neck pain and headaches go together.
    • Use painkillers sparingly: taking them too often can cause headaches of their own.

    How physio helps

    • Find the source: we check your neck movement and the muscles at the base of your skull, and screen for headache warning signs.
    • Exercise and hands-on treatment for your neck and upper back.
    • Daily habits: breaks, desk set-up, sleep and stress.

    Quick questions

    Can my neck really cause headaches?
    Yes. Neck problems can cause headaches, often starting at the back of the head, and most aren’t serious.
    Is it the same as a tension headache?
    They can overlap. Tension headaches can also be felt in the neck, and the same self-help, such as a low, firm pillow and heat or cold packs, can ease both.
    When is a headache an emergency?
    Call 999 or go to A&E for a sudden, extremely painful headache, or a headache with a high temperature, stiff neck or rash, numbness or weakness, problems speaking or seeing, or after a recent head injury.

    Ready to get moving?

    Book onlineCall 0115 972 1319

Insurance and funding

We work with all major private health insurers, including Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Cigna, WPA and Simplyhealth. Please check your policy for physiotherapy cover and, if needed, ask us for our provider/registration details.

We also hold NHS contracts for services in primary and secondary care.

Prefer to self-fund? You can pay for your own sessions — we’ll explain options and provide clear pricing.

See our fees
  • Bupa
  • AXA
  • Aviva
  • Cigna
  • WPA
  • Simplyhealth

Neck pain: your questions answered

Book an appointment

  • Usually not. Most neck pain is diagnosed from your symptoms and an examination. Scans are used for warning signs, a suspected serious injury, or nerve symptoms that aren’t improving. Age-related changes on scans are common in people with no pain.

  • Keep moving. Gentle movement and carrying on with normal activities, even if more slowly, help you recover. Resting your neck for long periods can slow things down.

  • Most neck pain settles within a few weeks, with the biggest change early on. A wry neck usually eases in a day or two, whiplash usually within 2–3 months, and a trapped nerve can take months. If it isn’t improving after a few weeks, get it checked.

  • A low, firm pillow that keeps your head in line with your body, and usually just one. Try not to sleep on your front. No particular pillow has been shown to be better than others.

  • No, unless a doctor tells you to. Collars stop your neck moving, which can slow your recovery.

  • Have the top of your screen level with your eyes, about an arm’s length away, with your keyboard and mouse close and your shoulders relaxed. On a laptop, use a separate keyboard and mouse and raise the screen. Most importantly, change position and move regularly.

  • Only if you can turn your head well enough to check traffic safely. After a neck injury with tingling or weakness, don’t drive until you’ve spoken to a GP or NHS 111.

  • Yes, staying active helps. Build up gradually: some discomfort while exercising is fine if you’re no worse the next morning. Stop anything that makes your symptoms worse or causes new pain.

  • Hands-on treatment, including mobilisation and manipulation, may ease pain while you recover, and works best alongside exercise. It isn’t suitable for everyone, for example people with weak bones, so your physio will check first.

  • Usually not. Clicking and grinding are common and can sound alarming because they’re close to your ears, but they’re not usually a sign of anything serious.

  • Paracetamol or ibuprofen, or ibuprofen gel rubbed on your neck, are the usual choices. Check with a pharmacist if you have other health conditions or take other medicines.

  • See your GP if you have pins and needles or a cold arm with neck pain, or pins and needles that keep coming back. Get urgent advice for weakness or heaviness in your arms or legs, clumsy hands or problems with balance. Call 999 for new problems walking, loss of bladder or bowel control, or sudden loss of co-ordination.

  • No. Getting back to work early, with adjustments if you need them, helps your recovery.

Who you'll see

Our team includes HCPC-registered physiotherapists and CSP members with experience in neck pain, whiplash and nerve-related arm pain. You’ll get a clear diagnosis, a plan that fits your life, and support back to the things you love.

Clinics and booking

Book online in three steps.

  1. Choose your clinic
  2. Choose Physiotherapy (or a named physio)
  3. Pick a time
Or call 0115 972 1319We also offer home visits

Pride Park, Derby

Derby Arena, Royal Way, Derby DE24 8JB

Our Pride Park clinic is inside the iconic Derby Arena. Especially convenient for businesses on Pride Park.

Mon: 10am – 4pm
Tue: 8.30am – 4.30pm
Wed: 5pm – 7pm
Thu: 8am – 12pm
Fri: 7am – 4.30pm

View on map (Pride Park)Book at Pride Park

Classes run at Long Eaton (Tai Chi in Toton). See classes

Related body areas

Book onlineCall