Neck pain, whether caused by a sudden impact or the result of a painful disorder such as fibromyalgia, can affect nearly every aspect of your body. Neck conditions can cause pain to radiate throughout the body and may result in neck stiffness, constant aching, or tingling sensation.
Physical therapy can significantly improve a person’s quality of life if they are suffering from a neck condition. Our Santa Clarita and Saugus physical therapists and personal trainers help individuals and athletes feel better, faster through a whole-body approach to recovery and wellness.
If you are suffering from neck pain, call our office at (661) 383-9828. What hurts today can work tomorrow. Get your individualized treatment plan today.
Why Do People Experience Neck Injuries?
Neck injuries and chronic pain can develop suddenly after trauma or gradually from lifestyle habits and degenerative changes. Understanding the different causes can help patients—and therapists—find the right treatment path.
Traumatic Injuries
Sudden impacts often lead to acute neck injuries that require professional treatment:
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Car accidents can cause whiplash, one of the most common sources of neck trauma.
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Sports injuries and falls may lead to muscle strains, ligament tears, or spinal damage.
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Other traumatic events, such as workplace accidents, can cause long-term instability if untreated.
Physical therapy after trauma helps restore strength, flexibility, and confidence, while also lowering the risk of chronic pain.
Overuse & Strain
Modern lifestyles contribute heavily to neck pain. Hours spent looking down at phones or laptops, poor posture at work, or repetitive motions can put excessive strain on the neck. Common culprits include:
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Tech neck from prolonged device use
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Repetitive movements, even something unexpected like head banging at a concert
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Awkward sleeping positions that leave the neck unsupported
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Lifting improperly at work or during daily activities
Our therapists not only address the pain caused by overuse but also teach better posture and movement strategies to prevent it from returning.
Degenerative Conditions
As we age, natural wear and tear on the spine can lead to conditions that put extra stress on the neck. Some of the most common include:
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Arthritis – Joint inflammation that leads to stiffness and reduced mobility.
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Herniated Discs – When the cushioning discs between vertebrae shift or rupture, pressing on nerves.
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Pinched Nerves – Nerve compression that can cause tingling, numbness, or shooting pain into the arms.
These conditions may not be reversible, but with physical therapy, patients can significantly reduce pain and improve function.
Other Contributing Factors
Sometimes neck pain stems from sources people don’t always expect. Stress can cause muscle tension that radiates into the shoulders and back. Chronic medical conditions like fibromyalgia may also lead to persistent neck discomfort. Physical therapy can complement medical care by reducing tension, increasing mobility, and improving overall quality of life.
Common Neck Conditions We Treat
Neck pain can be caused by several different factors. The sudden, traumatic impact of a car accident or unexpected fall can result in chronic, debilitating pain. Neck conditions requiring treatment can also be caused by sports injuries, osteoarthritis, or several other disorders.
Common neck conditions we treat include:
- Whiplash
- Arthritis
- Disc Herniation
- Osteoarthritis
- Thoracic Outlet
- Syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Radicular Pain
- Posture Dysfunction
Regardless of the cause of your neck pain, we can help. Our professionally licensed physical therapists, massage therapists, and personal trainers will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that focuses on your goals and fitness level.
Preventing Further Injury & Reducing Neck Pain
Recovery is only one part of the process—prevention is equally important. By making small but consistent changes, patients can protect their neck health and avoid recurring issues.
Some of the best ways to prevent further injury include:
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Maintaining good posture whether sitting, standing, or walking.
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Avoiding long periods of looking down at devices; instead, bring screens up to eye level.
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Using proper lifting techniques, especially at work or during workouts.
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Strengthening neck and shoulder muscles to better support the spine.
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Sleeping with a supportive pillow to keep the neck aligned.
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Setting up an ergonomic workspace to reduce strain during long hours at a desk.
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Seeking prompt treatment when pain begins—catching small problems early prevents them from becoming chronic.
At Next Level, we not only help patients recover but also give them the tools and knowledge to take care of their bodies long term.
How We Can Help You with Neck Pain or Injury
At Next Level Physical Therapy & Athletic Performance, we help patients make a meaningful, lifelong change so that they can achieve their fullest potential, whether they are a professional athlete or a stay-at-home parent. We believe that individuals of all ages and abilities have can live a limitless, pain-free life. Through a full body integrative approach, we strive to get our patients feeling better and doing what they love.
Our approach includes:
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Massage therapy to reduce stiffness and increase mobility
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Targeted strengthening exercises to support the neck and surrounding muscles
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Posture training to correct unhealthy habits that lead to pain
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Personalized fitness plans for athletes, workers, and families alike
Neck pain can prevent you from living the life that you want to live or from participating in the sport that you love. Get started on your path to recovery with a tailor-made plan that takes into consideration your health and wellness goals.
Call Next Level Today to Get Started
Call our Santa Clarita and Saugus physical therapy studio today at (661) 383-9828 to get started. Our highly-trained staff is available to help you through this difficult time. You deserve to enjoy life, unhindered by pain and discomfort.
Get back in the game; call today to take your life and your sport to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need physical therapy for neck pain?
If your neck pain lasts more than a few days, keeps you from sleeping, limits your movement, or radiates into your arms/shoulders, physical therapy can help address the root cause and improve function.
Can physical therapy help whiplash from a car accident?
Yes. Whiplash often causes stiffness, headaches, and reduced mobility. Physical therapy helps restore movement, relieve pain, and strengthen supporting muscles.
How long does it take to recover from a neck injury?
Recovery time depends on the severity of the injury. Mild strains may improve in a few weeks, while chronic or traumatic injuries may take longer. Your therapist will monitor progress and adjust your plan as needed.
What can I do at home to prevent neck pain?
Practicing good posture, stretching regularly, setting up ergonomic workspaces, and strengthening your neck/shoulder muscles are effective strategies for preventing recurring neck pain.
