Jaw
TMJ physiotherapy
The jaw and neck are closely linked, and jaw problems often come with neck tension and headaches.
TMJ physiotherapy →Neck pain & headaches · Northcliff
Physio for neck pain and headaches in Northcliff, Johannesburg
A stiff neck that won't turn properly, an ache that creeps up from your shoulders by mid-afternoon, or a headache that seems to start at the base of your skull. Neck problems and headaches are often linked. Physio for neck pain looks at why it's happening and helps you move more comfortably.
No referralphysios are first-contact practitioners in SA
All medical aidswe submit for you
A special interestNeck (cervical spine) care
Understanding the problem
Why the neck gets sore
Your neck, or cervical spine, is made up of seven small vertebrae that support the weight of your head and let it turn, tilt and nod all day long. With that much movement, it's no surprise that it often feels the strain.
Neck pain commonly involves tight muscles, stiff joints, or both. Long hours at a desk or on a phone, sleeping awkwardly, stress, a sudden jolt such as whiplash, and age-related changes can all play a part. Often there's more than one contributor, which is why an assessment matters.
The headache link
Physiotherapy for headaches that start in the neck
Some headaches are linked to the joints and muscles of the upper neck. These are often called cervicogenic headaches. Tension-type headaches can also involve tight muscles through the neck and shoulders.
Physiotherapy for headache problems starts by working out whether your neck is likely to be playing a part. Not every headache comes from the neck, and some need a doctor's assessment, so Mandy will tell you if she thinks you should see one.
Base of skullPain that starts at the back
ShouldersTension that builds up
Desk postureLong hours at a screen
The approach
How physio for neck pain can help
After assessing how your neck and upper back move and where the tension sits, treatment may include:
- Hands-on techniques, such as joint mobilisation and myofascial release
- Dry needling of tight neck and shoulder muscles, where it suits you
- Exercises to improve neck movement and strengthen the deep neck muscles
- Advice on posture, your workstation, sleep position and screen habits
The aim is to ease your symptoms and give you simple strategies to stop the same pattern building up again.
Related care
Often connected to the neck
Treatment
Dry needling
Sometimes used for tight neck and shoulder muscles, as one part of your plan.
Dry needling physio →Spine
Sports & spinal
For back pain, sciatica and nerve-related pain travelling into an arm or leg.
Sports & spinal physiotherapy →
What to expect
Your care at Northcliff Physiotherapy
Every session is one-on-one in a calm, home-based practice. Your first visit starts with a careful assessment of your neck, upper back and posture, and a plan tailored to you.
Your physiotherapist
Mandy (Amanda) Gossip
- Special interest in the cervical spine (neck) and TMJ
- BSc (Physiotherapy), UCT, 1995
- 25+ years' experience, in Johannesburg since 2000
- Practice no. 7231970
Questions people ask
Frequently asked questions
Can a physio help with neck pain?
Yes. Physio for neck pain is commonly used to help ease stiffness and discomfort, improve movement and build strength, with the approach guided by your individual assessment.
Can physiotherapy help with headaches?
Physiotherapy for headache problems is often used when the neck and its muscles may be contributing, such as in cervicogenic or tension-type headaches. An assessment helps work out whether that's likely in your case.
I was in a car accident. When should I see a physio for whiplash?
If you've been checked by a doctor and serious injury has been ruled out, gentle, guided movement is usually encouraged early. Mandy can assess your neck and help you return to normal movement step by step.
Will my neck need to be "cracked"?
No. Mandy uses gentle hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation, and she'll explain anything she plans to do before she does it.
Is physio for neck pain covered by medical aid?
Northcliff Physiotherapy submits claims to all medical aids. How much is covered depends on your medical aid plan.
Seek urgent medical care for a sudden, severe headache unlike any you've had before, a headache with fever and a stiff neck, new weakness or numbness, slurred speech, changes in vision, or neck pain after a significant fall or accident.
Ready when you are
Let's look at what's going on
If neck pain or headaches keep coming back, a proper assessment is the best first step. Book a one-on-one appointment with Mandy for physio for neck pain at Northcliff Physiotherapy.
- Phone087 551 1779
- Emailmandy@ncphysio.co.za
- Address11 Columbia Drive, Northcliff, Randburg, 2115
- ParkingSecure off-street parking
