Neck Pain & Stiffness
including whiplash-associated disorders
Treating neck pain & stiffness at my Burlington clinic. Convenient for Waterdown and Flamborough residents.
Important: When to seek immediate medical attention
Severe headache after neck trauma
Seek immediate medical attention
Progressive weakness in arms
See physician urgently for assessment
Loss of coordination or balance
Requires prompt medical evaluation
Pathophysiology and contributing factors.
Inside Overview
The Science of Neck Pain & Stiffness
Link copiedNeck pain involves complex interactions between joints, muscles, and nerves. The small joints in your neck bear significant load during daily activities, especially with modern computer use. The deep stabilizing muscles often become weak while surface muscles overwork to compensate. The upper part of your neck is responsible for half of all neck rotation and can refer pain to the head. This explains why neck problems often cause headaches.
Related Conditions
Conditions I commonly see alongside, or confused with, this one.
- Common co-occurrence
Whiplash/WAD
Whiplash is a common cause of chronic neck pain and dysfunction
- Anatomically related
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Both involve cervical spine region; neck posture affects thoracic outlet space
- Common co-occurrence
Postural Dysfunction
Poor posture is a primary contributing factor to chronic neck pain