03 Feb Experiencing recurrent neck and shoulder pain despite getting regular massages and performing regular stretches

Did you know that your shoulder and neck pain could be coming from your first rib joint

It is estimated that the 1 year incidence of neck pain from available studies ranges between 10.4% and 21.3% with a higher incidence noted in office and computer workers. While some studies report that between 33% and 65% of people have recovered from an episode of neck pain at 1 year, most cases run an episodic course over a person’s lifetime and, thus, relapses are common. 

Here at My Favourite Physio, our Expert Physiotherapists see many people who come in complaining of neck and shoulder pain who have tried different therapists including acupuncture, massage, Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, Osteopath, exercises and stretches without much success.

Using our 3 Step Neck Pain Solution Treatment Program, our Expert Physiotherapists would find that these patients commonly report of neck pain on one side that goes from the base of their head down the side of their neck and into their shoulder blade. On palpation of their muscles and joints, our Expert Physiotherapists would find muscle tightness and tenderness in their neck, mid back and shoulder muscles as well as joint stiffness in their neck joints and the first rib joint. Many people do not realise that their first rib joint is stiff and painful which refers pain up into their neck and down to their shoulder.

The one treatment strategy that our Expert Physiotherapists would use to effectively relief neck and shoulder pain is gentle mobilisation of the first rib. By holding the first rib joint gently, we are able to reproduce and reduce the patient’s neck and shoulder pain. Patients would report an immediate “weight” lifted from their shoulders as well as an immediate increase in neck range of motion. 

So if you are experiencing recurrent neck and shoulder pain, reach out to My Favourite Physio on (02) 9790 4233 or DM us @myfavouritephysio to speak to one of our Expert Physiotherapists.  Find out how we can help you overcome your neck and shoulder pain today!