Understanding Neck-Related Arm Pain
Neck pain doesn’t always stay local — it can refer down the shoulder, arm or even into the hand. Whether it’s due to nerve root irritation, joint stiffness or muscle imbalance, we take the time to understand where your symptoms are coming from and how best to treat them.
Cervical radiculopathy is a condition where a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated at the point where it branches from the spinal cord. This can result in pain, weakness, or numbness that radiates into the shoulder and upper extremities. It’s commonly caused by disc herniation or degenerative changes in the cervical spine, and can often be managed effectively with physiotherapy that focuses on reducing pressure on the affected nerve and improving cervical spine function.
This differs from other common neck-related symptoms like myofascial pain (which stays more localised and is muscular in nature), or referred pain that follows predictable muscular or joint referral patterns but does not involve nerve irritation. Cervical radiculopathy typically follows a dermatomal distribution and may include changes in reflexes, sensation or strength in the arm, which helps distinguish it from other presentations.
Common Conditions We Treat:
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Neck stiffness and tension-related pain
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Cervical radiculopathy (nerve root irritation)
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Trapped nerve in neck or shoulder blade
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Postural neck pain from desk work
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Shoulder or upper limb referred pain
Why Choose Redrock Physio?
We don’t treat neck pain with just stretches or quick fixes. Our team uses a comprehensive, hands-on approach based on your story, your lifestyle and the exact drivers of your symptoms. No standard sheets — every plan is personalised, realistic and positive.
Our Hands-On, Targeted Approach
Our initial session includes a thorough assessment of your neck, posture, nerve sensitivity and movement control. We combine gentle manual therapy, joint mobilisation, muscle release and tailored home exercises to reduce pain and restore confidence in movement.
According to the best clinical guidance, physiotherapy for cervical radiculopathy should include education, postural retraining, neural mobilisation (nerve glides), cervical stabilisation and progressive strengthening. At Redrock Physio, we integrate these principles into your personalised care plan.
We may also use taping, Pilates-based rehab or onward referral to spinal specialists if required.
What to Expect
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Session 1: Assessment, manual therapy and advice on posture & pacing
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Session 2–3: Gentle neck rehab and home-based video plan
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Session 4+: Progressing into stability, strength and return to work/sport
Most patients need 4–6 sessions, with complex nerve pain needing longer care.
Why Choose Redrock Physio?
We don’t treat neck pain with just stretches or quick fixes.
Our team uses a comprehensive, hands-on approach based on your story, your lifestyle and the exact drivers of your symptoms.
No standard sheets — every plan is personalised, realistic and positive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my neck pain serious?
Most neck pain can be managed without scans or surgery — we’ll help identify red flags and refer if needed.
What can I do between sessions?
You’ll receive your own guided video plan for posture, pain relief and gentle nerve mobility exercises.
Should I keep working?
Yes — with guidance on how to adapt your desk setup, screen height and rest breaks.
Patient Experience
