Neck Problems We Treat
At Legend Physiotherapy we see patients with a wide range of neck complaints. The most common conditions we help with include:
- Cervical spondylosis — age-related wear of the discs and joints in the cervical spine, causing stiffness and aching that sometimes spreads into the shoulders.
- Stiff neck and muscle spasm — often triggered by poor sleeping positions, sudden movements or stress.
- “Text neck” — forward-head posture from prolonged phone or laptop use, increasingly common among young professionals in Hyderabad’s IT corridor.
- Cervical radiculopathy — a pinched nerve in the neck that sends pain, tingling or weakness down the arm and into the hand.
How We Assess Your Neck
Every patient begins with a detailed one-on-one assessment. Dr Sirish or a member of our team will check your range of movement, test nerve function in your arms and hands, assess muscle strength and palpate the cervical joints. We may ask about your daily posture habits, workstation setup and sleep position. If imaging such as an X-ray or MRI is needed, we will refer you — but many patients do not need scans before starting treatment.
Treatment: Mobilisation, Strengthening and Traction
Your treatment plan is built around your specific diagnosis and goals. Common approaches we use include:
- Manual mobilisation — gentle, graded movements applied to stiff cervical joints to restore range and reduce pain.
- Strengthening exercises — progressive exercises for the deep neck flexors and scapular stabilisers that support the cervical spine long-term.
- Cervical traction — mechanical or manual traction to decompress nerve roots, used where clinically suitable after a full assessment.
- Electrotherapy and laser — TENS, ultrasound or low-level laser therapy may be used alongside exercises to manage pain in the early stages.
Most patients begin to notice improvement within 3 to 5 sessions, though chronic conditions may take longer. We set clear milestones and adjust the plan as you progress.
Workstation and Pillow Advice for Desk Workers
A large proportion of the neck pain we see at the clinic is linked to prolonged desk work. Small changes can make a real difference:
- Position your screen at eye level so you are not looking down or up.
- Keep your keyboard and mouse close to avoid reaching forward.
- Take a 30-second break every 30 minutes to move your neck and shoulders.
- Choose a pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck — a medium-firm contour pillow suits most people.
During your sessions we will review your specific setup and suggest adjustments that may help prevent recurrence.
Warning Signs That Need a Doctor
Most neck pain responds well to physiotherapy, but certain symptoms require urgent medical attention. Please go to a hospital or call your doctor if you experience:
- Severe headache with a stiff neck and fever (possible meningitis).
- Progressive weakness or loss of coordination in the arms or legs.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control.
- Neck pain after a fall, road accident or other trauma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can physiotherapy help cervical spondylosis?
Yes. Physiotherapy is one of the main treatments for cervical spondylosis. A combination of manual mobilisation, specific neck-strengthening exercises and postural correction may reduce pain and stiffness over several weeks. Results vary from person to person, but many patients notice meaningful improvement within 6 to 10 sessions.
Is neck traction safe?
Mechanical or manual traction is generally safe when applied by a trained physiotherapist after a thorough assessment. It is not suitable for everyone — conditions such as spinal instability, severe osteoporosis or certain vascular problems are contra-indications. Your therapist will decide whether traction is appropriate for you.
Which pillow is best for neck pain?
A medium-firm pillow that keeps your head and neck aligned with your spine is usually the best choice. Memory-foam contour pillows work well for many patients. Avoid very high or very flat pillows. We can advise you during your session based on your sleeping position.
How many sessions does neck pain usually take?
Most patients with straightforward neck pain see noticeable improvement in 4 to 8 sessions over two to four weeks. Chronic conditions such as cervical spondylosis may need 10 to 15 sessions. Your therapist will set milestones and adjust the plan as you progress.
Related Reading
Your Physiotherapist — Dr Sirish
Dr Sirish holds a B.P.T and M.Sc in Sports Science (London) with over 20 years of clinical experience in orthopaedic and neurological rehabilitation. He leads the Legend Physiotherapy team at the Kothapet clinic.
Clinic Details
Address: Shop No. 2, Ground Floor, H.No. 11-13-714, Road No. 4, Dwarka Nagar, Green Hills Colony, Kothapet, Hyderabad 500102
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9 am to 9 pm
Phone: +91 81430 15455