•  
  •  

Manual Therapy for Neck Pain

Topic Overview

Manual therapy includes:

  • Massage, which applies pressure to the soft tissues of the body, such as the muscles.
  • Mobilization, which uses slow, measured movements to twist, pull, or push bones and joints.
  • Manipulation, which uses rapid, thrusting movements to move the bones and joints.

Chiropractors, osteopaths, massage therapists, and physical therapists sometimes use manual treatment.

Manual therapy is sometimes used for neck pain. A review of multiple studies shows that exercise and mobilization, either separate or used together, are likely to be helpful in the treatment of nonspecific neck pain. Manipulation is also likely to be helpful.1

Most manual therapy is safe. But manipulation is not recommended if you have nerve-related problems that are very severe or getting worse.1, 2

Before you try manual therapy for neck pain, think about the following:

  • First, try home treatment, like ice, heat, pain relievers, and mild exercise or stretching. These things may help your neck pain the best.
  • If you have severe pain or your symptoms are getting worse, consider talking to your doctor before you try manipulation.
  • Good manual therapy will include information on self-care and strength exercises.
  • If you choose to see a manual therapist, find one who is willing to work with your other doctors.

Do your research. Not all manual therapy is the same. And there isn't a good way to tell what will be helpful and what won't. Ask your doctor if it is safe for you to get manual therapy. If you decide to try it, talk to a couple of different therapists before you choose and get treated by one.

Related Information

References

Citations

  1. Binder A (2008). Neck pain, search date May 2007. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence: http://www.clinicalevidence.com.
  2. McIntosh G, Hall H (2011). Low back pain (acute), search date December 2009. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence: http://www.clinicalevidence.com.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics
Last Revised February 7, 2012

Last Revised: February 7, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.