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Neck pain, anatomical illustration
Conditions we treat

Neck pain treatment in Christchurch

Neck pain can affect every part of your day. Whether it's making it difficult to work, drive, sleep or simply turn your head comfortably, we'll help you understand what's causing your pain, what's preventing recovery, and create a personalised plan to help you move freely again.

ACC handled in-house No referral needed Same-day appointments often available

Common neck pain symptoms

Most people we see with neck pain experience two or more of the symptoms below. If they sound familiar, a thorough assessment can help identify what's causing them and the best path to recovery.

The sooner you understand what's causing your neck pain, the sooner you can start recovering.

Book a neck pain consult

What's contributing to your neck pain?

Neck pain is rarely caused by one thing. We'll identify what's contributing to your pain, what's slowing your recovery and what needs to change to help you recover and reduce the chance of it returning.

  • 01 Poor posture or prolonged desk, driving or screen time
  • 02 Sudden strains, awkward sleeping positions or sporting injuries
  • 03 Previous injuries, including whiplash
  • 04 Joint, muscle or disc irritation
  • 05 Stress and muscle tension
  • 06 Reduced neck and shoulder strength

The sooner you understand what is driving your neck pain, the sooner you can start recovering.

Book a neck pain consult

How we treat it

A clear path to recovery

Most neck pain can be successfully treated. During your assessment, we'll identify what's contributing to your pain, what's preventing recovery, and create a personalised plan to help you recover and reduce the chance of it returning.

What we assess

  • Neck movement, and which directions or positions reproduce your pain
  • Joint mobility and muscle tension through the neck, upper back, and shoulders
  • Posture and your desk, screen, and sleep setup
  • Whether the neck is driving headaches or referred arm symptoms
  • Nerve involvement, and any signs that warrant further assessment
01 Relieve

Settle the pain

Hands-on treatment to reduce pain, ease muscle tension and help you move more comfortably.

02 Rebuild

Restore movement and strength

Improve the way your neck moves and builds strength so it can better cope with everyday life.

03 Prevent

Reduce future flare-ups

Address the factors contributing to your neck pain and learn simple strategies to help reduce the chance of it returning.

Meet your care team

Every osteopath at Better Health Osteopathy is registered with the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand and follows the same evidence-informed approach to assessment, treatment and rehabilitation. This page is clinically reviewed by Lorraine Herity, Clinic Director & Principal Osteopath.

Experienced osteopaths you can trust

Whoever you see, you will receive the same thorough assessment, hands-on treatment and personalised rehabilitation plan. We work as one team to help you recover as quickly and safely as possible.

  • Over 60,000 consultations
  • Helping Christchurch for over 10 years
  • Registered OCNZ osteopaths
  • ACC accredited
  • Same-day appointments often available

Real stories from Christchurch patients

There is no better measure of our care than the experiences of the people we have helped. Here is what Christchurch patients say about their recovery.

★★★★★
"I started at Better Health Osteopathy 3 weeks ago. Sam, on reception was exceptionally helpful, even calling one of the osteopath's out to answer my questions and putting my mind at ease. Ella, the osteopath assigned to me is amazing. I would totally recommend her and the practice."

Brian and Linda Cousins

★★★★★
"I’ve been seeing Lorraine for several years now and she is nothing short of a miracle worker. No matter what I walk in with - aches, pains or something that just feels “off” - she always knows exactly what to do and somehow gets my body back on track every single time. Beyond her incredible skill and knowledge, Lorraine is an absolute delight. She creates such a warm, welcoming environment and genuinely cares about her clients. You never feel rushed - she takes the time to listen, understand and treat the root of the problem. As both the clinic owner and manager, it’s clear she pours her heart into Better Health Osteopathy and it shows in every aspect of the experience. If you’re looking for someone you can truly trust with your body, Lorraine is the one. I wouldn’t go anywhere else!"

Stewart Wilson

★★★★★
"Such an awesome clinic. Fixed me every time and helps me to feel stronger and healthier as a result. Couldn’t recommend more. They are worth their weight in gold."

Mel Stopford

★★★★★
"Highly recommend. I have been seeing Lorraine at BHO for multiple years now including visits for both of my children as newborns. So handy to now have a second location on Colombo street! Beautiful, clean clinic and the staff are friendly as always. Overall a great experience and well worth it in my opinion."

Georgia Black

What to expect at your first appointment

Our goal is simple: give you answers, explain your options, and help you take the next step towards recovery.

30 minutes

Time to listen, assess and answer your questions.

Bring

Comfortable clothing, any scans, and your ACC details if it is an injury.

You will leave knowing

A clear understanding of what is causing your pain and your personalised recovery plan.

No referral needed

Book directly. We will take care of your ACC claim if needed.

  • What's causing my pain?
  • Why did it happen?
  • Why isn't it getting better?
  • Is anything else contributing?
  • What's the best path to recovery?

We will explain everything in plain English, answer your questions, and make sure you understand your treatment options before moving forward.

New here? See what to expect at your first visit , or see our fees .

Could your neck be causing your headaches?

Many headaches actually begin in the neck. Restricted joints, muscle tension and poor movement through the upper neck can all contribute to headaches. If your headaches start at the base of your skull, worsen with neck movement or are associated with stiffness, your neck may be part of the picture.

Explore headache treatment

Book your visit

Ready to get back to the life you love?

We will help you understand what is causing your pain and create a personalised plan to help you recover.

FAQs about neck pain

What does an osteopath do for neck pain?

We assess the neck, upper back, ribs, and shoulders, then tailor hands-on treatment plus a plan to reduce pain and improve movement.

Is it safe to have my neck "cracked"?

We choose the gentlest effective technique for each person. Many people respond well to soft-tissue work and mobilisation; manipulation is one tool among many and is used only with consent and indication.

Can Osteopathy help with whiplash or after a car accident?

Often yes. We assess the neck and surrounding chain, screen for red flags, and tailor care for the stage of recovery you're in.

Why does my neck hurt every time I work at a desk?

Sustained postures load the neck over the day. Treatment helps, but lasting change usually comes from movement, breaks, and workstation adjustments alongside care.

Will I get exercises?

Often yes. Movement, mobility, and strengthening progressions are commonly part of long-term improvement.

When should I get a scan?

Most neck pain doesn't need imaging. We'll discuss options if your presentation suggests it would change management.

What you can do at home right now

Small, safe steps that usually help while you wait for your first appointment.

Move regularly

A 30-second neck and shoulder reset every 30-45 minutes through the day.

Screen height

Top of monitor at or just below eye level; avoid looking down at a laptop for hours.

Pillow check

Not too high, not too flat; supports the neck in a neutral position when side-sleeping.

Heat for tension

A warm pack on upper traps for 10-15 minutes can ease persistent muscle tone.

When to seek urgent care

Some signs need same-day attention

These are uncommon, but if any apply, do not wait for an appointment.

Call us now 0800 67 77 00

If symptoms are severe or sudden, seek urgent medical care or call 111.

  • Severe neck pain after significant trauma (fall, vehicle accident, sporting collision)
  • Neurological symptoms in both arms or legs, balance changes, or unsteady walking
  • Sudden onset of severe headache or neck pain, especially with fever or feeling unwell
  • Marked weakness or rapidly worsening numbness in the arm or hand
  • Loss of dexterity, dropping objects without warning

Care tailored to people like you

Neck pain shows up differently depending on your life and work. Explore the care built for your situation.