What are common causes of neck pain?

Common causes include posture-related strain, joint stiffness, muscle tension, disc irritation, degenerative changes, and nerve irritation. A proper assessment helps identify the primary driver of your symptoms.

When should I see a provider for neck pain?

Consider an evaluation if neck pain lasts longer than 1–2 weeks, repeatedly returns, limits work or sleep, or includes symptoms like radiating arm pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Do I need imaging like an MRI for neck pain?

Not always. Many cases of mechanical neck pain improve with conservative care. Imaging may be recommended when symptoms suggest significant nerve involvement, trauma, or when progress is not occurring as expected.

What treatments do you offer for neck pain?

Treatment may include McKenzie Method (MDT), physical therapy and corrective exercise, chiropractic joint mobilization, dry needling or acupuncture, and myofascial/soft tissue therapy depending on exam findings.

CERIVICAL SPINE - NECK PAIN

Physical Therapy For Neck Pain in River Forest & Oak Park

Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Care for Neck Pain

Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints we treat at River Forest Health & Wellness, affecting people of all ages—from desk workers and busy parents to athletes and older adults. Whether your symptoms are mild and intermittent or persistent and limiting your daily activities, our team focuses on identifying the true source of your neck pain and treating it with targeted, individualized care.

Neck pain can originate from joints, discs, muscles, nerves, posture, or even referral from the shoulder or upper back. Because no two cases are the same, a thorough assessment is essential before treatment begins.

Schedule Appointment

Common Causes of Neck Pain

Neck pain often develops due to one or more of the following factors:

Poor posture or prolonged screen time
Repetitive strain or work-related overuse
Acute injuries such as whiplash or sports trauma
Degenerative changes in the cervical spine
Disc irritation or herniation
Joint stiffness or mobility restrictions
Muscle tension, trigger points, or myofascial tightness
Nerve irritation or referred pain from the cervical spine

Some neck conditions are more specific and require focused care. You can learn more about these here:

Cervical Disc Herniation
Cervical Spinal Stenosis
Cervical Radiculopathy
Cervical or Cervicogenic Headaches
Whiplash injuries

Symptoms Associated With Neck Pain

Neck pain may present in many different ways, including:

Localized pain or stiffness in the neck
Reduced range of motion or difficulty turning the head
Headaches originating from the neck (cervicogenic headaches)
Pain radiating into the shoulders or upper back
Arm discomfort, heaviness, or weakness
Tingling or numbness into the arms or hands
Pain that worsens with sitting, driving, or computer work

Because some symptoms may overlap with disc or nerve conditions, proper evaluation is critical to avoid misdiagnosis.

Our Approach to Neck Pain at River Forest Health & Wellness

We take a whole-person, movement-based approach to neck pain rather than relying on passive or one-size-fits-all treatments.

Comprehensive Assessment

Your visit begins with a detailed evaluation that may include:

Detailed history of the injury
Cervical spine range of motion testing
Neurological screening
Mechanical assessment using McKenzie Method principles
Evaluation of the thoracic spine, shoulders, and upper extremities

This allows us to determine whether your neck pain is primarily mechanical, disc-related, joint-related, muscular, or nerve-driven.

Treatment Options for Neck Pain

Based on your findings, your care plan may include a combination of the following (click to learn more) :

McKenzie Method® (MDT)

Used to identify directional preference and reduce pain through repeated movements and self-treatment strategies.

Chiropractic & Joint Mobilization

Targeted spinal and joint mobilization to improve motion, reduce stiffness, and restore normal biomechanics.

Physical Therapy & Corrective Exercise

Focused strengthening, mobility work, and postural retraining to improve long-term stability and function.

Dry Needling & Acupuncture

Used to address muscular tension, trigger points, and nervous system regulation.

Myofascial Release & Soft Tissue Therapy

Hands-on treatment to reduce muscle tone, improve tissue glide, and decrease pain.

Shockwave Therapy (when indicated)

For chronic soft tissue conditions contributing to neck pain.

Why Treat the Entire System?

Neck pain is rarely isolated. Dysfunction in the thoracic spine, shoulder blades, breathing patterns, and core stability often plays a significant role. Our integrated approach ensures we’re not just treating where it hurts—but correcting the underlying contributors to prevent recurrence.

When to Seek Care for Neck Pain

You should consider evaluation if your neck pain:

Persists longer than 1–2 weeks
Repeatedly returns despite rest
Radiates into the arm or hand
Is associated with headaches or neurological symptoms
Limits work, sleep, or daily activities

Early assessment often leads to faster recovery and fewer long-term issues.

Related Cervical Spine Conditions We Treat

If your neck pain is related to a more specific diagnosis, explore these detailed pages:

Cervical Disc Herniation Treatment
Cervical Spinal Stenosis Treatment
Cervical Disc Herniation Treatment
Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment
Cervical or Cervicogenic Headaches Treatment
Whiplash injuries Treatment