Neck Pain

Neck Pain services offered in Forest Hills and Jackson Heights, NY


Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting between almost 50% of adults each year. Neck pain usually isn’t serious, but if your symptoms don’t improve, it’s essential to seek treatment. At Dolsky Physical Therapy PC, in New York City, experienced physical therapist Alexander Dolsky, DPT, and the team provide comprehensive care for neck pain. To make an appointment, call the office in Forest Hills, Queens, or book online today.

Neck Pain Q&A


What is neck pain?

Neck pain is stiffness, swelling, or general discomfort that affects any part of your cervical spine. It’s normal to experience neck pain if you sleep in an awkward position or sit in front of a computer all day. Still, if your symptoms worsen or prevent you from other activities, contact Alexander and the team.

What are the symptoms of neck pain?

Symptoms of neck pain include:

  • Stiff neck
  • Difficulty turning your head
  • Pain when moving
  • Tingling, numbness, or pain in the arms and shoulders

Depending on the cause of your neck pain, you might also experience jaw tension or headaches.

What causes neck pain?

Neck pain occurs for various reasons, including:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Osteoporosis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Sports injuries
  • Work injuries
  • Poor posture
  • Sleeping in an awkward position 
  • Jerking your neck during exercise

You might also experience neck pain if you’re rear-ended in a car accident.

What happens during a physical therapy consultation for neck pain?

A physical therapy consultation begins with a review of your medical records and a discussion of your symptoms, including when they started, if the pain extends into other parts of your body, and if it's worse during certain activities, like work or exercise.

Next, Alexander conducts an exam. He gently presses on your neck to identify areas of swelling or sensitivity and asks you to move your head up and down and from side to side. 

Afterward, Alexander orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI. These procedures help him identify underlying issues, like herniated discs, strained muscles, or tumors.

After identifying the cause of your symptoms, Alexander develops a custom physical therapy treatment plan.

How does physical therapy treat neck pain?

Alexander and the team use different types of physical therapy to treat neck pain. They might recommend:

  • Ice and heat therapy
  • Manual therapies (like massage and acupuncture)
  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
  • Ultrasound therapy
  • Stretches
  • Strengthening exercises
  • Neck brace

Depending on your needs, they might recommend a combination of treatments. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce neck pain and help you feel better.

To see if physical therapy can treat your neck pain, make an appointment at Dolsky Physical Therapy PC by calling the office or booking online today.