What causes neck pain
The neck is under load most of your waking day. The joints between the bones, the discs between them, and the muscles running from your skull to your shoulders all shape how it feels. When any of these structures are irritated or restricted, pain follows.
Common causes include prolonged sitting and screen time, poor sleeping positions, forward head posture, muscle strain, joint stiffness from inactivity, whiplash from a car accident or sport, and disc irritation or early arthritic changes. Causes often overlap.
Only a proper assessment will tell you what’s actually driving yours, which is why Dr Marcello starts there before any treatment begins.
What neck pain can feel like
- Stiffness in the morning or after sitting still
- Pain when turning to check blind spots
- Aching across the shoulders or upper back
- Headaches that start at the base of the skull
- Pain or tingling into the arm or fingers
- Clicking or grinding when you move
How chiropractic care can help
What to expect at your first visit
Your first appointment starts with a conversation about your neck, your history and your daily life, followed by a physical and orthopaedic examination to assess how your neck is moving and where the problem is coming from.
We explain what we find in plain language. If chiropractic is appropriate, we’ll typically offer treatment the same day. If it’s not the right fit, we’ll tell you and refer you on. New patients are seen for $78 (normally $140), with parking right out front.
Every care plan is tailored to you. By addressing areas of spinal and nervous system stress, chiropractic care aims to support your body’s natural ability to function, move and feel its best. If you have any questions, we’re always happy to talk through whether care is right for you.
Common questions.
Can a chiropractor help with neck pain?
Yes. Neck pain is one of the most common conditions we treat. Whether it comes from posture, a sudden onset or a recurring injury, chiropractic care may help by addressing joint stiffness, muscle tension and movement restrictions in the cervical spine. A proper assessment will tell you whether it’s the right approach for you.
Why does my neck hurt when I wake up?
Morning neck pain usually points to sleeping position, pillow height, or joints that have stiffened overnight. If it’s happening regularly, changing your pillow isn’t the answer, get it assessed so you know what you’re actually dealing with.
Can neck pain cause headaches?
Yes. The upper joints of the neck are a common headache source, particularly pain that starts at the base of the skull and spreads toward the forehead or eyes, known as a cervicogenic headache. Tell us at your first visit so we can assess both.
Is chiropractic treatment safe for neck pain?
Yes, for most people, when properly assessed and applied by a registered practitioner. Some people feel mild soreness for a day or two after an adjustment. We explain exactly what we plan to do and why before we start.
Can chiropractic help a stiff neck after a car accident?
Yes. Whiplash is something we see and treat. Get assessed as soon as you can, symptoms often worsen in the days after impact even when the initial pain feels manageable.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No, you can book directly. If you’ve had recent imaging of your neck, bring it along, it’s not required but can give useful context.