In many cases, back, neck and shoulder complaints resolve on their own with sufficient rest and movement. However, if your complaints keep returning — or have never fully gone away — it is important to seek help. You may find yourself significantly hindered in daily life, or experiencing pain during everyday activities such as sitting, sleeping or walking.
The origin
Problems in the spine can radiate to other parts of the body. Complaints in the lower back, for example, can spread to the neck and shoulders. By recognising this early and seeking treatment, you can prevent chronic complaints, radiating pain to other parts of the body, or damage to the nerves or organs. Women are more prone to back complaints, and the likelihood increases with age.
What you can do
You can help yourself by exercising, taking regular breaks from sitting, and varying your posture to prevent and reduce back, neck and shoulder complaints as much as possible. In the majority of patients there is no clear medical cause — this is called non-specific back pain. When complaints do not disappear, we can help. It is important to seek help early to prevent further complaints from developing.