Neck pain is the second most common condition we treat at Sloane Square Chiropractors, and it is becoming increasingly prevalent as more people spend long hours at desks, using computers and looking down at mobile devices. Whether your neck pain is the result of an acute injury, a long-term postural problem or workplace strain, our experienced chiropractors in Chelsea can provide highly effective, evidence-based treatment.
What Causes Neck Pain?
Postural Strain
Prolonged forward head posture — sitting at a computer, looking at a phone or driving — creates significant mechanical stress on the cervical spine. For every inch the head moves forward from its neutral position, the effective weight on the cervical spine increases dramatically.
Whiplash and Acute Injury
Whiplash injuries — most commonly caused by road traffic accidents — involve sudden acceleration-deceleration forces that strain the muscles, ligaments and joints of the cervical spine. Early chiropractic treatment significantly improves outcomes for whiplash.
Cervical Disc Problems
Disc protrusions or herniations in the cervical spine can compress nerve roots, causing neck pain that radiates into the shoulder, arm or hand — a condition known as cervical radiculopathy.
Facet Joint Dysfunction
The small joints at the back of the cervical vertebrae can become restricted or inflamed, causing localised neck pain, stiffness and restricted rotation.
Muscle Tension and Trigger Points
Stress, anxiety and poor posture all contribute to muscular tension in the neck and upper back. Trigger points — hyperirritable spots within muscle tissue — can cause referred pain patterns into the head, shoulder and arm.
Degenerative Changes (Cervical Spondylosis)
Age-related wear and tear of the cervical discs and joints is extremely common and a frequent cause of chronic neck stiffness and pain in middle-aged and older adults.
Symptoms of Neck Pain
- Stiffness and restricted rotation or side-bending of the neck
- Aching or sharp pain in the neck
- Pain radiating into the shoulder, arm or hand
- Numbness or tingling in the arm or fingers
- Headaches originating from the base of the skull
- Muscle spasm in the neck and upper back
- Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or screen use
How We Treat Neck Pain
Cervical Spinal Manipulation
Precise, gentle manipulation of the cervical and upper thoracic joints to restore normal movement, reduce pain and improve function. Our chiropractors are highly trained and experienced in cervical manipulation techniques.
Mobilisation
Low-velocity, passive movement of the cervical joints to restore range of motion and reduce stiffness — a gentler alternative where manipulation is not indicated.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Targeted treatment of the muscles and connective tissue of the neck and upper back to release tension, address trigger points and reduce pain.
Kinesiology Taping
Applied to support the musculature of the neck and shoulder girdle during the rehabilitation phase, reducing pain and facilitating recovery.
Postural Correction and Ergonomic Advice
We provide detailed advice on workstation setup, posture correction and specific exercises to address the underlying postural causes of your neck pain and prevent recurrence.
Why Choose Sloane Square Chiropractors?
- Over 50 years of combined clinical experience
- GCC-registered chiropractors
- Dominic Cheetham is an elected Examiner for the General Chiropractic Council
- Established in Chelsea since 2001
- Close working relationships with London’s leading medical specialists and consultants
- GP and consultant referrals welcomed — no referral required to self-refer
- Recognised by BUPA, AXA Health, Vitality, Aviva, WPA and Cigna
- Thorough, unhurried consultations
- 9a Wilbraham Place, Chelsea — minutes from Sloane Square tube
Health Insurance
We are recognised by all major UK health insurers. Please contact your insurer before your first appointment to confirm cover and obtain any required authorisation code.
- BUPA · AXA Health · Vitality · Aviva · WPA · Cigna
Frequently Asked Questions — Neck Pain
How many sessions will I need for neck pain?
This depends on the cause and duration of your neck pain. Many patients with acute neck pain see significant improvement within 3-5 sessions. Chronic or postural neck pain may require a longer course of treatment combined with home exercises.
Is neck manipulation safe?
Yes — cervical manipulation performed by a qualified, GCC-registered chiropractor is a safe and effective treatment for neck pain. Our chiropractors conduct a thorough assessment before any treatment to identify any contraindications and select the most appropriate technique for your condition.
Can you treat neck pain caused by whiplash?
Yes — chiropractic treatment is one of the most effective approaches for whiplash-associated disorder. Early intervention produces the best outcomes. If you have been involved in a road traffic accident, we recommend seeking assessment as soon as possible.
Book Your Neck Pain Consultation
Call 020 7730 3031 | 9a Wilbraham Place, Chelsea, London SW1X 9AE