CaRi-heart technology
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Neck pain
PAIN AND STIFFNESS IN THE NECK
Our spinal, neurological and orthopaedic surgeons may be able to help if you have a stiff or painful neck
About neck pain
Neck pain is rarely a sign of anything serious. It can happen if you've strained a muscle or sat or slept in an awkward position. Bad posture, anxiety and stress can also lead to neck pain. Normally, the problem will go away after a few days or weeks. If yours doesn't, our spinal, neurological and orthopaedic surgeons may be able to help.
Need to know
Neck pain or stiffness can often be the result of simple factors, like bad posture or sleeping in an awkward position. Ordinary painkillers (like paracetamol and ibuprofen) can help to relieve these symptoms.
Sometimes, you can wake up with your neck twisted and locked to one side. This is called acute torticollis and is often caused by injury or bad posture.
In other cases, a stiff neck may be down to cervical spondylosis (wear and tear of your neck bones and joints) or whiplash (a sudden forward movement of your head) can also lead to neck pain and stiffness.
Your GP or consultant will discuss your symptoms with you to make a diagnosis. If necessary, they may also carry out tests to establish the basis of the problem.
Your consultant will discuss your treatment options with you. These might range from powerful painkillers to massage and physiotherapy.
Our locations
Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)
170 Tottenham Court Road W1T 7HA London
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Portland Hospital
205-209 Great Portland Street W1W 5AH London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.