This is a one-off group session for people who have neck pain - with or without arm pain.

There are usually eight people in each group.

The session lasts an hour and covers:

  • Basic anatomy of the spine including discs and nerves
  • Common causes of neck pain
  • Ways to help yourself including -most commonly prescribed painkillers
  • Pain relief options other than medication i.e hot/cold packs, massage and TENS machines
  • Specific gentle exercises for neck pain.
  • Advice on exercising in general - e.g. sport, yoga, pilates,swimming

During the last 15-minute of the session, you are guided through some neck exercises.

At the end of the session, you will be encouraged to try the gentle specific exercises for the neck twice a day for four weeks.

If you are feeling well enough, general exercise is also encouraged during this four-week period.

If you are still having issues after four weeks, please contact the Physiotherapy Department to make a one-to-one appointment with a physiotherapist for further treatment.

Referral

Your GP can refer you directly to this group.

Orthopaedic or Musculoskeletal Assessment and Treatment Service (MATS) consultants may also recommend that you attend the Neck Group.

Why you might be referred to the Neck Group

Most forms of neck pain are not serious and do not need X-rays, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans or lots of hands-on treatment.

Evidence shows us that physical management, including exercise to improve the movement, strength and function of the neck, has a better outcome than medical management (operations, injections) for the majority of neck pain.

That is why you will have been recommended to attend.

Cancelling your place

If you have been referred to the class but do not wish to attend, then please contact us (please see below) so we can allocate the place to another patient.

Classes

Day Time Location Contact details
Tuesday 9.30am-10.30am West Swindon Health Centre (please see Service locations listing and map) Tel: 01793 696642
Friday 9.30am-10.30am Physiotherapy Department, South Car Park, Great Western Hospital  Tel: 01793 605093

Exercise video

Further information

Please see: