Neck pain

Neck pain chiropractor in Moseley, Birmingham

Neck pain affects more than your neck. It can disturb your sleep, make it hard to concentrate at work, and get in the way of simple things, like turning your head to check for traffic.

It often builds up gradually rather than starting with one injury. That’s why I start by working out what is going on and why.

What can cause it

Why neck pain builds up

Stuck posture

Sitting for hours, slouching, or working at a desk that isn't set up well can put steady strain on your neck and upper back. Over time that can lead to tired muscles, tension and stiff joints.

Muscle strain

Repeating the same movements, long hours looking at a screen, or sleeping in an awkward position can build up tension in your neck muscles.

Injury and whiplash

A sudden jolt, like in a car accident or a sports injury, can strain the joints, muscles and ligaments of your neck. You might feel the pain straight away, or it can develop over the following days.

Changes with age

Changes in the neck that come with age, such as cervical spondylosis, or disc changes, can add to stiffness. A thorough assessment helps show whether they're playing a part.

How it can feel

Common signs of neck pain

Lisa Archer explaining her findings to a man at her computer in her practice in Moseley

People come to see me with all sorts of neck symptoms. You might notice:

  • stiffness when you turn your head
  • aching when you sit at a desk, or look at a screen
  • tightness across your neck and the tops of your shoulders
  • pain that spreads into your upper back, or arms
  • your head drifting forward, sometimes called text neck
  • headaches that start in your neck

If it hasn’t settled after a couple of weeks, or it’s getting in the way of your day, it’s worth getting checked out. A free call is a simple way to find out whether chiropractic is a good next step.

When to get urgent help

Symptoms that need a doctor first

Most neck pain isn’t serious. But some symptoms need medical help straight away, rather than waiting for a chiropractic appointment.

Go to A&E or call 999 if

  • your neck pain started after a fall, accident or blow to the head
  • you have a high temperature, a headache and a stiff neck that's hard to bend forward

Contact your GP or call 111 if you have

  • pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in your arms or legs
  • problems with your balance or walking
  • neck pain alongside unexplained weight loss or a history of cancer

My approach

Looking at the whole picture

Your first appointment starts with a full history and a thorough examination. Then I check your whole body, not just your neck.

I talk you through the results, so you understand what’s going on and why. I’ll also let you know whether Advanced Biostructural Correction (ABC™) is right for you. If you need a different kind of care, I’ll tell you and suggest who to see.

You’ll also get practical advice to help between appointments.

Find out more about ABC™ and what to expect at your first appointment.

For more on what causes neck pain and what helps, read my neck pain blog.

Google reviews

What people say

Taken from my Google reviews. Read all my Google reviews

★★★★★

“I called last minute hoping for an appointment after a serious neck, nerve and shoulder issue… within one appointment I knew what the problem was and how it would be treated. Lisa is approachable, caring and an excellent clinician. I feel heard and considered at each appointment…”

Vicki W.

Questions

Questions people ask about neck pain

More answers on my FAQ page.

Can a chiropractor help with neck pain?

Chiropractic can help with many kinds of neck pain. I always start with a full history and a thorough examination, so I can find out what's causing your pain before recommending anything.

Is chiropractic care safe for neck pain?

Chiropractic care is generally considered safe for neck pain when it's carried out by a qualified chiropractor registered with the General Chiropractic Council. Your first appointment includes a full health history to make sure chiropractic is right for you, and I'll always explain what I'm planning to do and answer your questions before we start.

How many appointments will I need?

It depends on what's causing your pain, how long you've had it, and how your body responds. After your first appointment, I'll give you an honest picture of what to expect. Then you decide.

Do I need a GP referral?

No, you can book directly without a referral. If I find anything during your assessment that needs your GP's input, I'll tell you and can write to your doctor if needed.

Where do people come from to see you for neck pain?

My practice is in Moseley, and people come to see me from across South Birmingham, including Kings Heath, Hall Green, Stirchley, Edgbaston and Harborne.

Just because you can push yourself through the day doesn’t mean you have to.

Not sure if chiropractic is right for your neck pain? Book a free call and tell me what’s been going on. It’s a relaxed, no-obligation chat. If I don’t think chiropractic is right for you, I’ll say so.