Neck pain

That depends on how long the pain has been there and what is causing it. Neck pain that started last week usually responds faster than pain you have carried for years. After examining you we will give you an honest estimate rather than committing you to a long plan up front.

Often it is a large part of it. Sitting with your head forward for hours loads the muscles at the base of the skull, which is a common source of both neck pain and headaches. If your workstation is contributing we will go through what to change, because treatment alone will not hold if you return to the same setup.

It depends on whether the area is inflamed or simply tight. Ice tends to suit a fresh injury in the first day or two, and heat tends to suit ongoing muscle tightness. We will tell you which applies to your situation, because using the wrong one can make it feel worse.

Waking stiff usually points to pillow height or sleeping position rather than an injury. A pillow that is too high or too flat holds the neck at an angle for hours. If it happens most mornings rather than occasionally, it is worth having looked at.

They can. A headache that starts at the base of the skull and spreads forward, often building through the day and worse after long hours at a desk, commonly comes with neck and shoulder stiffness. An examination will tell us whether your neck is involved.

No. In Australia you can book directly with a chiropractor without seeing your GP first. A referral is only needed if you are claiming under certain Medicare or insurance arrangements, such as a chronic disease management plan.