PAIN
IN THE NECK
Neck pain is a common consequence of modern lifestyle - computer work, phone use and stress. At Dr. Verbitskiy's private practice in Maribor, manual treatment releases tension and restores mobility of the cervical spine.
The neck is one of the most stressed yet most mobile parts of the spine. Due to prolonged sitting, computer work and frequent phone use, tension quickly builds up, presenting as pain, stiffness or reduced mobility. At Dr. Verbitskiy's private practice in Maribor we regularly treat patients with acute and chronic neck pain.
Why neck pain occurs
Neck pain is often the result of prolonged strain, and less commonly of sudden injury. The most common causes we observe in patients are:
- 🔹 Prolonged computer work with the head bent forward
- 🔹 Frequent phone use (so‑called 'tech neck')
- 🔹 Unsuitable pillow or sleeping position
- 🔹 Stress presenting as chronic tension in the neck and shoulder muscles
- 🔹 Sudden jerks or minor injury (e.g., while driving)
- 🔹 Degenerative changes of the cervical spine with age
How neck pain presents
Neck pain can take various forms depending on the cause and duration of the strain:
- 🔹 Stiffness and reduced mobility when turning or tilting the head
- 🔹 Dull pain that worsens after prolonged sitting
- 🔹 Tension radiating toward the shoulders or between the shoulder blades
- 🔹 Headaches originating from tension in the upper neck
- 🔹 A feeling of 'blocked' neck after awkward sleep or movement
- 🔹 Clicking or grinding when moving the neck
How we treat neck pain
The aim of treatment is to release tense muscles, improve cervical spine mobility and address the cause of recurrent tension, not just the immediate pain.
1. Mobility assessment
Assessment of posture, cervical range of motion and muscle tone of the shoulder girdle.
2. Manual therapy
Gentle manual techniques to release tension in the neck and upper back.
3. Posture recommendations
Advice on workplace ergonomics and preventing recurrent tension.
Neck pain we help with
People most often come to us with these problems:
- 🔹 A stiff, painful neck after sleeping or a draught
- 🔹 Tension in the neck and shoulders after computer work
- 🔹 Neck pain radiating into the arm or between the shoulder blades
- 🔹 Limited turning of the head to one side
- 🔹 Neck pain with headache at the back of the head
- 🔹 Recurring neck pain
Signs that require immediate attention
Seek urgent medical help immediately if neck pain occurs after a serious injury (fall, traffic accident), if it is accompanied by fever and neck stiffness (possible signs of meningitis), or if you notice tingling, numbness or weakness in the arm. Also seek immediate help for a sudden, extremely severe headache you have never experienced before.
In all other, less urgent cases, seek a professional opinion as soon as possible, since early treatment often prevents mild tension from developing into a long-term, chronic problem.
What our patients say
Verbitskiy, Manualna terapija - Osteopatija, diagnostika, rehabilitacija, d.o.o. · Maribor
Watch videos about manual therapy and osteopathy on our YouTube channel.
Visit YouTube channel →Neck tension, a painful and stiff neck
Neck tension
Neck tension is common with desk work, long hours looking at a screen and stress. The muscles tighten, the neck becomes stiff, and sometimes headaches or pain in the shoulders follow.
Sudden locked neck (“lumbago” in the neck)
A sudden lock or sharp pain in the neck is often described as lumbago in the neck. It is acute tension of the muscles and joints that limits turning the head.
Pain in the neck and collarbone
The neck muscles are connected with the shoulder girdle and collarbone, so pain often spreads towards the collarbone and shoulder. More about cervical spine problems can be found on the cervical spine page.
Frequently asked questions about neck pain
What helps with neck tension?
Regular breaks at work, gentle movement and muscle relaxation help. If the problems last several days or come with numbness or weakness in the arms, see a doctor.
Why do my neck and collarbone hurt?
The muscles of the neck, shoulders and collarbone are connected, so neck tension can cause pain near the collarbone. We assess the cause after the examination.
Is a poor pillow to blame?
An inadequate pillow can significantly contribute to neck pain, as it fails to support the cervical spine's natural curve during sleep.
How often should I take breaks when working at a computer?
We recommend a short neck-stretch break every 45–60 minutes, which significantly reduces tension buildup.
Can stress cause neck pain?
Yes, chronic stress often causes unconscious tightening of neck and shoulder muscles, which over time leads to pain.
How many treatments do I need to improve?
Acute tension often settles after 1–2 treatments, while chronic problems may require 3–5 visits.
Can the neck "crack" during treatment?
With some techniques a mild joint noise may occur; this is normal and not a sign of injury.
Are neck exercises beneficial?
Yes, gentle stretching exercises during the workday significantly help prevent recurrent tension.
Contact us
Get in touch with any questions or to book an appointment.
Please bring one large towel with you to your appointment.
Please confirm your appointment by phone or WhatsApp one hour beforehand, or two hours beforehand if you are travelling a long way. This way you avoid a wasted trip if an appointment has to be rescheduled at short notice.