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Neck and Shoulder Pain Treatment at Focus Osteopathy
Neck and Shoulder Pain, Looked at Gently
Neck and shoulder discomfort is one of the most common things we see here at Focus Osteopathy, and one of the most commonly ignored by those who experience it. Neck pain or shoulder discomfort tends to build slowly, and as a result, you adjust around it, and eventually you are twisting your whole body to reverse the car or noticing that niggle every time you reach overhead.
Our osteopaths at our Murrumbeena and Mount Waverley clinics assess the neck, shoulder and upper back together, because the three work as a unit and the sore area itself is frequently not where the problem originated.
Are You Experiencing Any of the Following?
Neck and shoulder complaints present in different ways. These are the patterns we see most often here at Focus Osteopathy.
How Osteopathy Approaches Neck and Shoulder Pain
The shoulder blade sits on the ribcage, the ribcage attaches to the spine, and the neck sits on top of all of it. Restriction in any one of those affects the others, which is why treating only the sore spot tends to produce short lived results.
Your osteopath will ask how it started, what makes it worse, and what your days typically involve – since desk setup, sleep position and training load are all common contributors. They’ll then assess how your neck, upper back and shoulder move together.
Treatment may use a combination of soft tissue work, joint articulation, stretching and gentle mobilisation, alongside advice on your setup and specific exercises. Osteopathic treatment may help improve mobility and reduce discomfort for some people, though responses and timeframes vary.
Things Worth Trying Yourself
Four steps worth taking regardless of whether you book in.
Break Up Long Periods in One Position
Sustained postures matter more than perfect ones, so regular movement often beats sitting correctly for three hours.
Check Your Screen and Desk Height
Screen at eye level and forearms supported removes a surprising amount of load from the neck and shoulders.
Look at How You Sleep
Pillow height and stomach sleeping are common contributors to morning neck stiffness.
Keep the Shoulder Moving
Avoiding a movement entirely tends to make it stiffer, so working within a comfortable range is usually better than resting completely.
When to See Your GP
Some presentations need medical assessment first. See your doctor if you have arm weakness, numbness that is worsening or persistent, neck pain following a significant impact or whiplash injury, neck pain with fever or feeling generally unwell, or shoulder pain following a fall where you cannot lift the arm. Chest pain, jaw pain or shortness of breath alongside shoulder or neck discomfort needs urgent medical attention rather than an osteopathy appointment.
Why Choose an Osteopath for Neck and Shoulder Pain?
Here are some of the reasons people choose osteopathy for their neck and shoulder pain.
The Neck, Shoulder and Upper Back Are Assessed Together
These areas work as one unit, so your osteopath at Focus Osteopathy looks across all three rather than only where it hurts.
Your Daily Setup Is Part of the Assessment
Desk position, sleep and training load are often what keeps the problem going, so they are addressed alongside treatment.
You Are Treated on the Same Visit
Assessment and hands on treatment happen in the same appointment, so you leave with something done and a plan in place.
A Natural Approach
Treatment uses hands on techniques, movement and exercise, which suits people who would rather not rely on medication alone.
University Trained and Nationally Registered
Osteopaths complete a five year university qualification and are registered with the Osteopathy Board of Australia through AHPRA, and no referral is required to book.
You Leave Knowing What to Do Between Visits
Alongside treatment you get specific advice on movement, setup and exercises, so progress may continue between appointments.
The Focus Osteo Process in Murrumbeena & Mt Waverley
what to expect in your first visit
There’s a reason our patients don’t keep coming back for the same problem. We don’t just chase symptoms, we find what’s causing your pain and address the root cause of your discomfort.
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We listen & assess
We hear your story and assess thoroughly to find the true cause of your pain, not just where it hurts.
We explain it clearly
No jargon. We show you what's happening and why, so you feel confident in the plan ahead.
We treat the cause
Hands on osteopathy tailored to you, targeting the source of your discomfort to live & feel better.
We keep you moving
A simple strength and mobility plan stops the problem returning, so you stay active for the long run.
We can help you decide
Find Out if Osteopathy Is Right for You
Choosing an osteopath is an important decision. That’s why we offer a free, no-obligation discovery session, giving you the opportunity to meet our team, discuss your concerns, and ask any questions before deciding if we’re the right fit for you.
* Note: there is no treatment given at one of our free discovery session. It’s for you to ask us more questions and for us to confirm whether or not we think we can help you. Refer to the ‘Terms and Conditions‘ page for more detail.
Ready to book your appointment?
Online bookings are available for your convenience. Please note – if you can’t find a suitable appointment time, please contact our clinic and our team will be happy to help arrange a time that works for you.
focus Osteopathy Services
Osteopathy could Help You
Osteopathy may be appropriate for a range of musculoskeletal concerns. Explore some of the common conditions our osteopaths assess and manage below.
free resources
Download our Neck / Shoulder Pain guide
Practical information from our osteopaths, covering common causes of neck and shoulder pain and general self-care advice. Download our free guide for helpful information you can use at home.