As physical therapists, we see patients every day who struggle with pain, stiffness, and mobility issues in their head, neck, and upper back. Whether it’s from an injury, poor posture, or a chronic condition, these issues can significantly impact daily life. The good news? Physical therapy is an effective, non-invasive solution to many of these conditions. By addressing the root causes of pain and dysfunction, we can restore movement, reduce discomfort, and prevent future problems.

Common Conditions We Treat

Muscle Strains and Sprains

We most often see patients who have suffered muscle sprains and strains, even in the neck! Overuse, poor posture, and sudden movements can lead to muscle strains in the neck and upper back, causing stiffness, discomfort, and limited mobility.

Pinched Nerves

A compressed nerve can cause sharp pain, numbness, and weakness, often radiating into the shoulders or arms. Conditions like cervical radiculopathy fall into this category, and without proper treatment, symptoms can persist or worsen.

Whiplash

After a car accident, many patients come in with whiplash—pain and stiffness from the rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck. This can also lead to headaches and dizziness, which physical therapy can help alleviate.

Herniated Discs

A bulging or ruptured disc in the cervical spine can press on nerves, causing pain, tingling, and even weakness in the arms. With targeted exercises and manual therapy, we can help relieve pressure and restore movement.

Vertigo and BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)

Dizziness and balance problems, especially from BPPV, often stem from tiny calcium crystals shifting in the inner ear. Through vestibular therapy, we use specific maneuvers—like the Epley maneuver—to reposition these crystals and reduce symptoms. The Epley maneuver is a series of specific head movements.

TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction)

Many patients don’t realize that jaw pain and clicking are often linked to neck tension and poor posture. Through manual therapy, jaw exercises, and posture training, we can relieve pain and restore function.

Concussions

Recovery from a concussion requires more than just rest. We work with patients on balance training, guided movement, and gradual return-to-activity programs to safely regain function.

Poor Posture and “Tech Neck”

Spending hours hunched over a phone or computer can lead to chronic neck and upper back pain. Through posture training, strengthening exercises, and ergonomic education, we correct these imbalances before they cause long-term damage.

How Physical Therapy Helps

Every patient is different, which is why we develop a personal treatment plan for each of our patients based on their specific condition and goals. Here’s how we help:

• Pain Relief and Mobility Restoration – We use hands-on manual therapy, targeted exercises, and techniques like dry needling or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and restore movement.
• Postural Correction – We guide patients on ergonomic adjustments and strengthening exercises to support long-term posture improvement.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation – If dizziness is a concern, we can provide specialized treatments to retrain the vestibular system and restore balance.
• Concussion Management – We help patients gradually regain function while preventing further injury.
• TMJ Treatment – Through hands-on therapy and movement retraining, I help relieve jaw pain and improve function.
• Spinal Manipulation – We use proven methods involving applying a controlled force to a spinal joint to treat pain and restore movement.

If you’re struggling with neck pain, headaches, dizziness, or upper back tension, physical therapy can make a significant difference. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll feel better. Let’s work together to get you back to doing what you love—pain-free.