What You're Experiencing

Difficulty turning your head or looking up/down, often worse in the morning or after long periods at a desk.

When to seek help: This symptom should be assessed by a physiotherapist within the next 1-2 weeks to prevent it from worsening.

Likely Causes

This symptom is commonly caused by one or more of the following conditions. A physiotherapist can identify the exact cause through a thorough assessment.

1 Poor posture from desk work
2 Cervical spondylosis
3 Muscle tension from stress
4 Whiplash aftermath

What a Physiotherapist Will Do

1. Assessment

Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough examination including movement tests, palpation, and posture analysis to identify the root cause of your neck stiffness.

2. Diagnosis

Based on the assessment, they'll explain which of the likely causes applies to you and discuss the best treatment approach.

3. Treatment

Treatment typically combines hands-on therapy for immediate relief with targeted exercises to address the underlying cause. Most patients notice improvement within 2-4 sessions.

4. Home Programme

You'll receive specific exercises and advice to continue your recovery at home, helping you get better faster between sessions.

Related Conditions & Treatments

Learn more about the conditions and treatments related to this symptom:

Helpful Articles

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my neck stiff every morning?

Morning neck stiffness usually comes from sleeping position, pillow height, or underlying cervical joint stiffness. A physiotherapist can identify the cause and recommend specific stretches and pillow adjustments.

Can phone use cause neck stiffness?

Yes, 'text neck' is increasingly common. Looking down at your phone strains neck muscles and can cause chronic stiffness. Hold your phone at eye level and take regular breaks.

Are neck exercises safe to do at home?

Gentle range-of-motion exercises are generally safe. Avoid forceful movements or 'cracking' your neck. A physiotherapist can teach you specific exercises that are safe and effective for your situation.