James Zheng (Chiropractor) has helped many patients with neck pain and knows it is an all-too-common ailment. Many people suffer an episode of neck pain at some point in their lives. Often it starts suddenly and disappears just as quickly without any treatment — sometimes after a long day at the computer. For others, though, it isn't that simple.
Some people suffer recurrent episodes, or neck pain that feels debilitating and doesn't let up. Neck pain can also be associated with arm pain and headaches.
Reviewed by James Zheng, Chiropractor (B.ChiroSc, M.Chiro) · Last reviewed July 2026
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The three most common types of neck pain
Besides spending too long at a computer, neck pain can stem from overall poor posture or follow a road traffic accident. Diagnosis is key to solving the problem, and there are many distinct types of neck pain. The three most common we see at the clinic are:
- 'Mechanical' neck pain — not related to any underlying medical condition, with no trapped or damaged nerves. The muscles, ligaments and the joint itself may be involved, often from poor posture or sitting position.
- 'Arthritic' neck pain — wear and tear in the joints, where the intervertebral discs narrow and cause stiffness and pain.
- 'Post-traumatic' neck pain — following a sports injury, car accident or a minor fall or knock to the head and neck. Whiplash often damages the soft tissues of the neck.
When nerves are involved
In less common cases, nerves may be trapped, compressed or irritated. Many factors can cause this, including wear and tear and damaged discs. The pain may radiate into the arm and shoulder, and other symptoms can include a pins-and-needles sensation, numbness or weakness in the arm and hand.
Whatever the type, a careful assessment lets us pinpoint the cause and tailor your treatment so you get lasting relief rather than a temporary fix.






