Registered Massage Therapist
About : Neck Pain
Massage therapy can improve neck pain by decreasing tension in the muscles and reducing pressure and irritation on the joints of the cervical spine. Massage treatment can help relieve the symptoms of neck pain by reducing trigger points in muscles, decreasing sympathetic nervous system firing (decreasing the body’s stress response) and gently mobilizing the joints of the spine. Often, a series of treatments is required to achieve long-term relief.
Neck pain is often the result of repetitive or postural strain, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that “poor” posture is to blame. While traditional thinking linked posture directly to pain, research now suggests that the relationship is more complex. Many people with so-called "poor" posture experience no pain, while others with seemingly ideal alignment still struggle with discomfort. Rather than focusing on achieving perfect posture, the key to reducing strain is incorporating more movement and variation throughout the day. Staying in one position—whether sitting, standing, or even lying down—for too long can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Unfortunately many of us have jobs that require us to be in one position all day, such as working at a desk. Massage therapy can help to relieve and prevent posture related muscle tension and pain.
Neck pain may also result from a physical trauma, either to the neck directly or where the forces of the trauma are transferred through the neck. One of the most common examples of this type of trauma is a whiplash injury. A whiplash injury is the result of a rapid acceleration-deceleration of the head and neck. Whiplash injuries are often acquired through motor vehicle accidents (especially rear-impact collisions), contact sports or slips and falls. The symptoms of a whiplash injury often include dizziness, headache, nausea, numbness or tingling, neck pain and lack of mobility. It is normal for symptoms to appear days, weeks or even months after the initial injury. Muscles on the front and the back of the neck are usually injured or irritated following whiplash.
Neck pain that results from a physical trauma often requires several treatments as there are many areas involved. Many of the muscles in the back as well as the head and jaw are also affected by whiplash injuries. Both the front and back of the neck are affected by the acceleration-deceleration forces of the injury, so it is important to treat both of these areas as well as the surrounding structures. Tension in the muscles on the front of the neck can result in pain, a tight feeling in the throat, discomfort when taking a deep breath and dizziness. Treatment that only focuses on the back or sides of the neck will not be able to address these issues.
Regardless of the cause, muscle tension in the anterior neck can have a significant impact on the voice by restricting the movement of the larynx (voice box) and surrounding structures. The muscles at the front of the neck play a role in positioning the larynx and supporting vocal function. When these muscles become tight due to stress, poor breathing patterns, or repetitive strain, they can limit the natural movement of the vocal cords, leading to vocal fatigue, strain, or even changes in pitch and quality. This tension can also interfere with efficient breath support, making speaking or singing feel difficult. Releasing and retraining these muscles through manual therapy and targeted exercises can help restore ease and flexibility to the voice.
Work on the front of the neck is an important part of my approach, yet it’s an area that many practitioners tend to avoid. Tension in these muscles can contribute to issues like neck pain, headaches, jaw tension, and even voice strain, so addressing them can make a significant difference in overall function and comfort. I take care to work gently and effectively in this area, ensuring that clients feel comfortable while receiving the benefits of targeted treatment.
Please note that you should see a medical doctor if you are experiencing neck pain or stiffness (rotation less than 45 degrees or sharp pain when bringing your chin to your chest) accompanied by a fever or in the acute stage following an injury.
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Please email me (emily.burns.rmt@gmail.com) if you have any questions regarding massage therapy treatment for neck pain!