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Neck pain and headache physiotherapy in Etobicoke
Assessment and treatment for neck pain, whiplash, pinched nerves and headaches that start in the neck, using the McKenzie method, manual therapy, traction and exercise.
Neck problems we treat
Neck pain can make driving, desk work, reading and sleep harder. These are the neck problems we see most often.
Neck pain and stiffness
Sudden or recurring neck pain, a stiff neck after sleeping, and pain from long hours at a desk or screen.
Whiplash
Neck pain, stiffness and headaches after a car accident or fall. We direct bill auto insurers for accident claims.
Headaches from the neck
Cervicogenic and tension-type headaches, often felt at the back of the head, behind the eyes or in the temples.
Pinched nerve
Pain, tingling, numbness or weakness travelling into the shoulder, arm or hand from an irritated nerve in the neck.
Arthritis and disc problems
Neck stiffness and pain from wear of the joints and discs in the neck.
Shoulder and back pain
We also treat shoulder, mid-back and low back problems. Back pain and sciatica.
Your first visit: a thorough assessment
We start by finding out what is causing your pain and what you want to get back to doing. Your physiotherapist will:
- Ask how the pain or headaches started, what sets them off, and how they affect work, driving and sleep
- Check neck and upper back movement, posture, and the strength, reflexes and sensation in your arms
- Use McKenzie repeated movement testing to find the movements and positions that ease your symptoms
- Screen for signs that need a medical review, and look at any X-ray or MRI reports you bring
You leave with a clear explanation, a treatment plan, exercises to start at home, and an estimate of how many visits to expect.
How we treat neck pain and headaches
Treatment is built around your assessment. It usually combines:
- McKenzie method. Specific repeated neck movements and positions matched to your problem, which also teach you how to manage flare-ups yourself
- Manual therapy. Joint mobilization and soft tissue techniques for the neck and upper back to ease pain and improve movement
- Cervical traction. Gentle mechanical traction for the neck, used when it suits your condition, often for arm pain from a pinched nerve
- Exercise. Strengthening the deep neck and shoulder blade muscles, and building endurance for desk work and daily activity
- Acupuncture. Available with Xuemin (Simon) Li, R.TCM.P., if you would like to add it to your care
- Advice for daily life. Workstation set-up, screen and phone habits, pillows and sleeping positions
When to seek urgent care: go to the emergency department or call 911 for a sudden, severe headache unlike any before, a headache with fever and a stiff neck, new weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, trouble speaking or seeing, or neck pain after a serious injury with numbness or weakness.
Neck pain and headaches: common questions
Do I need a doctor's referral?
No. In Ontario you can see a physiotherapist directly. Some insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement, so check your plan.
I was in a car accident. Can you help with whiplash?
Yes. We treat whiplash and other accident injuries, bill your auto insurer directly, and help you complete and submit your accident benefits forms.
Do I need an X-ray or MRI first?
Usually not. Most neck pain and neck-related headaches can be assessed and treated without imaging. If your assessment suggests you need imaging or a medical review, we will tell you and refer you to your doctor.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on your condition, how long you've had it and your goals. We give you an estimate after your first assessment.
Do you direct bill?
Yes. We direct bill most extended health plans, WSIB and auto insurers, and help you complete and submit claim forms.
Book a neck assessment
100 Humber College Blvd, Suite 210, near Etobicoke General Hospital. Serving Etobicoke, Rexdale, West Humber and nearby areas.