Does this sound familiar?
Neck and shoulder pain shows up in different ways. You might notice:
- Stiffness or pain when you turn or tilt your head
- A constant ache across the tops of your shoulders or between your shoulder blades
- Pain that builds through the day at your desk or on your phone
- Waking up with a stiff, sore neck
- Headaches that seem to start at the base of your skull
- Tight, tender knots in your upper back and shoulders
Pain, pins and needles or numbness running down your arm can point to an irritated nerve. We'll check for this during your assessment.
What causes neck and shoulder pain?
Most neck and shoulder pain comes from the muscles and joints working harder than they should. Common reasons include:
Desk and phone posture
Hours of looking down at a screen load the neck and upper back.
Stress and tension
Stress often settles in the shoulders as muscle tightness.
Sleeping position
An unsupportive pillow or awkward position can leave you stiff in the morning.
Sport and training
Repetitive or heavy movements can strain muscles and joints.
Injury
A fall, a knock or a sudden jolt, such as whiplash.
Stiff joints
Joints that don't move freely make the surrounding muscles overwork.
How we treat it
Every treatment starts with listening to your full story and assessing how your neck, shoulders and upper back move. Your treatment is then tailored to you and may combine:
Chiropractic adjustments
Gentle, precise adjustments to free up stiff joints. The pop is optional.
Mobilisations
Slower, gentle movements to restore range of motion, ideal if you prefer not to be adjusted.
Dry needling
Targets stubborn muscle knots and trigger points in the neck and shoulders.
Kinesio taping
Supports tired muscles while they recover between sessions.
Massage gun therapy
Percussive therapy to release tight muscles.
Advice for home
Simple stretches, exercises and workstation tips to help you stay better for longer.
What to expect at your first visit
Your story
A full case history: when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and what you'd like to get back to.
Assessment
A postural assessment and orthopaedic and neurological tests to find the cause of your pain.
Treatment and a plan
Treatment where appropriate, plus a clear plan and advice for home. Your initial consultation is 45 to 60 minutes and costs R850; follow-ups are R690.
"I highly recommend Dr. Crestani! She is excellent at what she does. I see her for my back and neck pain and she always manages to sort me out. What I really appreciate is that she incorporates different techniques, including dry needling, to make sure the treatment is effective. She is professional, caring, and really knows her stuff. I always leave feeling so much better!"
Neck & shoulder pain questions
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on what's causing your pain, how long you've had it and your goals. We'll talk you through a plan at your first visit and adjust it as you improve.
Do I need a referral from a doctor?
No. You can book directly. If we think you need tests or care from another health professional, we'll let you know.
I'm nervous about having my neck adjusted. Is there another option?
Yes. Adjustments are only one option. Mobilisations, dry needling, taping and soft tissue work can all be used instead, and nothing is done without your consent.
Can I claim from my medical aid?
You can claim for your sessions from your medical aid. You pay at your session and we email you an invoice to submit to your scheme. Our fees are below standard medical aid rates.
Online Booking
Ready to turn your head without wincing?
Choose a time that suits you. You will receive confirmation immediately.
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