"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."
What's behind it
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 consultHow 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
Settle the pain
Hands-on treatment to reduce pain, ease muscle tension and help you move more comfortably.
Restore movement and strength
Improve the way your neck moves and builds strength so it can better cope with everyday life.
Reduce future flare-ups
Address the factors contributing to your neck pain and learn simple strategies to help reduce the chance of it returning.
Your care team
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
What patients say
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’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!"
"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."
"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."
What to expect
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.
The questions we'll answer
- 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.
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.
Frequently asked
FAQs about neck pain
What does an osteopath do for neck pain?
Is it safe to have my neck "cracked"?
Can Osteopathy help with whiplash or after a car accident?
Why does my neck hurt every time I work at a desk?
Will I get exercises?
When should I get a scan?
Start today
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.
Some signs need same-day attention
These are uncommon, but if any apply, do not wait for an appointment.
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
Who we help
Care tailored to people like you
Neck pain shows up differently depending on your life and work. Explore the care built for your situation.
Office workers
Relief from desk-related back, neck, and shoulder strain. Help with posture, headaches, RSI, and the wear of a sedentary work day.
Postnatal
Recovery support for new mothers. Help with back, pelvic, neck and shoulder strain from feeding, lifting, and the new physical demands of parenthood.
Sports & athletes
Faster recovery, smarter training, and lasting injury prevention. Hands-on Osteopathy for runners, lifters, team-sport players, and weekend warriors.
Related conditions
Further reading
- First aid 6 min
Slept Funny on Your Neck? Here's What to Do
A clear plan for waking up with a stiff or twisted neck. What helps, what to avoid, when to book in, and how to stop it happening again.
- Guide 7 min
Whiplash Recovery: How Osteopathy Helps After a Crash
Whiplash symptoms, the ACC pathway, and what osteopathic treatment looks like in the first 6 weeks after a motor-vehicle accident.
- Guide 6 min
Choosing the Right Pillow for Neck Pain Relief
How pillow height, firmness, and sleeping position affect neck pain and morning stiffness. Practical pillow-buying guide plus our pillow-fitting service.











