Neck pain and whiplash-type symptoms

Neck pain is a common problem that can develop suddenly or gradually. It may be linked to posture, muscle strain, injury, or prolonged screen use. Whiplash-type symptoms often occur after sudden acceleration or deceleration, such as a road traffic collision, but can also follow minor trauma.

This page explains common causes of neck pain, how it is assessed in general practice, and when further review is needed.

These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help with ongoing joint concerns, please book a GP appointment.

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How musculoskeletal neck pain commonly presents

Neck pain may present as:

Pain or stiffness in the neck or upper shoulders
Reduced range of movement
Pain that worsens with certain movements or positions
Muscle tightness or spasm
Headaches starting at the base of the skull
Pain that may spread to the upper back or arms

Symptoms can be mild or more limiting and may fluctuate over time.

Seek urgent medical advice if you develop:

Severe neck pain following significant trauma
Progressive weakness, numbness, or loss of sensation in the arms
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Fever, unexplained weight loss, or night pain
Severe headache with neck stiffness

Common causes of neck pain

Mechanical neck pain

The most common cause, often related to muscle strain, posture, prolonged desk work, or sleeping position.

Whiplash-type injury

Occurs when the neck is forced forwards and backwards suddenly. Symptoms may develop immediately or over several days.

Muscle strain and soft tissue injury

Can follow sudden movement, lifting, or unaccustomed activity.

Degenerative changes

Age related changes in the cervical spine can contribute to stiffness and recurrent pain.

Inflammatory causes

Less common, but may cause pain, tingling, or weakness spreading into the arm.

How a GP assesses neck pain

GP assessment focuses on identifying serious causes and guiding appropriate management. This usually includes:

Onset and duration of symptoms
History of injury or trauma
Pain pattern and triggers
Presence of arm symptoms such as numbness or weakness
Impact on daily activities and sleep

Many cases of neck pain can be assessed safely via an initial remote consultation.

Investigations

Most people with neck pain do not need tests initially.

Investigations such as imaging or blood tests may be considered if:

Symptoms are severe or worsening
There are neurological symptoms
Pain follows significant trauma
Red flag features are present

Early imaging is not routinely required for simple neck pain.

Self-care and early management

Simple measures are often effective:

Gentle movement and avoiding prolonged rest
Heat or cold packs
Attention to posture and workstation setup
Gradual return to normal activity
Over the counter pain relief if appropriate

Remaining active within comfort is usually beneficial.

Medical treatments a GP may recommend

Depending on symptoms, a GP may recommend:

Short term pain relief
Advice on activity modification
Referral for physiotherapy
Further assessment if symptoms persist or worsen

The aim is to restore movement and function safely.

Expert physio insights by AccessGP Lead Physiotherapist, Sonali Talwar

Sonali is an experienced physiotherapist working with AccessGP. In her clinical practice, neck pain is frequently related to sustained postures, reduced cervical mobility, and muscle tension around the neck and upper shoulders, often combined with stress or screen based work.

Following whiplash-type injuries, patients may worry that movement could cause harm. In most cases, gentle movement and gradual rehabilitation are important for recovery. Physiotherapy focuses on restoring neck mobility, improving posture and strength, and addressing movement patterns that contribute to ongoing pain or stiffness.