Acute Neck Pain: What Causes It and How Physiotherapy in Calgary Can Help

Sudden neck pain can come out of nowhere—waking up with a stiff neck, straining during a

workout, or feeling a sharp twinge after a long day at your desk. Acute neck pain is common,

painful, and often completely treatable with the right physiotherapy care.

At our MacLeod Trail physiotherapy clinic in South Calgary, we treat acute neck pain with a

personalized, evidence-based approach that reduces pain, restores movement, and prevents

recurrence. Visit us at 8989 MacLeod Trail SW, serving Haysboro, Kingsland, Acadia,

Fairview, and nearby communities.

Common Causes of Acute Neck Pain

• Muscle strain from poor posture, sudden movements, or overuse

• Facet joint irritation from sleeping awkwardly or turning too quickly

• Cervical disc strain due to heavy lifting or trauma

• Whiplash from motor vehicle accidents or contact sports

• Tech neck from prolonged screen time

• Stress-related tension in upper trapezius and levator scapulae

Symptoms of Acute Neck Pain

• Sudden sharp or stabbing pain

• Limited range of motion (e.g., turning or tilting the head)

• Muscle tightness and spasms

• Headaches (tension-type or cervicogenic)

• Pain radiating to the shoulder or arm (in some cases)

How Physiotherapy Treats Acute Neck Pain

1. Detailed Assessment

We assess:

• Joint mobility

• Muscle tone and spasm

• Postural habits

• Neurological symptoms (if any)

2. Manual Therapy to Relieve Pain Improve Mobility

• Soft tissue release for tight muscles (traps, scalenes, suboccipitals)

• Gentle joint mobilizations or manipulation

• Neurodynamic techniques if nerves are irritated

3. Targeted Exercises

• Range of motion exercises to reduce stiffness

• Isometric neck strengthening to stabilize the spine

• Postural correction strategies

4. Pain Relief Modalities

• TENS, heat, or cold therapy

• Dry needling for trigger points

• Kinesiology taping for support

5. Education & Ergonomic Advice

We help you:

• Adjust your workstation or screen time habits

• Improve sleep posture

• Manage stress that may be contributing to tension

Why Early Intervention Matters

Prompt physiotherapy can reduce the intensity and duration of acute neck pain. Research

supports early manual therapy and exercise to accelerate recovery and prevent chronic

issues (Gross et al., 2015).

Your Neck Pain Experts in South Calgary

Our experienced physiotherapists at 8989 MacLeod Trail SW provide one-on-one care for fast,

effective relief from neck pain. Whether it’s from sleeping awkwardly or working long hours at a

desk, we’re here to help you recover quickly and move confidently.

Book Your Neck Assessment Today

Don’t wait for neck pain to get worse. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step

toward relief.

References

 Gross A, et al. (2015). Manipulation and mobilisation for neck pain: a Cochrane Review.

Cochrane Database Syst Rev.

 Ylinen J, et al. (2003). Effect of neck exercises on cervical function. Arch Phys Med

Rehabil.

 Côté P, et al. (2008). The burden and determinants of neck pain in workers. Eur Spine J.