Neck Pain Physical Therapy in Nashville
Clinically reviewed by Brittany Hendrickson, PT, DPT, COMT, CDNT . Last reviewed October 2026.
Can physical therapy help neck pain?
Yes. Clinical practice guidelines support manual therapy, including mobilization and manipulation of the neck and upper back, combined with targeted exercise for most types of neck pain [1]. Physical therapy also treats headaches that start in the neck. Your physical therapist finds what is driving your symptoms and builds a plan you can keep up.
What causes neck pain?
Common drivers include long stretches in one position at a desk or on a phone, stress and poor sleep, a jump in overhead lifting or climbing, stiffness in the upper back, and injuries such as whiplash. Rather than chasing one perfect posture, we focus on changing position often and building strength in the neck and upper back.
What neck conditions do we treat?
-
Desk and phone-related neck pain
-
Neck stiffness and limited rotation
-
Headaches that start in the neck (cervicogenic headaches)
-
Pinched nerves with pain, numbness, or tingling into the arm
-
Whiplash and neck pain after an accident
-
Neck and upper back pain from lifting or climbing
How do we treat neck pain?
Treatment is built from your evaluation and usually includes:
-
Manual therapy for the neck and upper back
-
Dry needling when appropriate
-
Strength and endurance work for the neck, shoulders, and upper back
-
Workstation and training adjustments
-
Clear guidance on what is safe to keep doing
How long does neck pain recovery take?
Most people need 3 to 6 visits. Many notice meaningful relief in the first 1 to 2 visits, and appointments spread further apart as you improve. Neck pain with arm symptoms can take longer to settle.
When should you see a doctor first?
Seek medical care right away, or call 911 for sudden neurological symptoms, if you have:
-
A sudden, severe headache unlike any you have had
-
Neck pain with fever and a stiff neck
-
Clumsy hands, trouble with balance, or arm weakness that is getting worse
-
Dizziness with double vision or trouble speaking or swallowing
-
Neck pain after a significant fall or car accident
Where can you get neck pain treatment in Nashville?
Available at all three of our clinics:
Common questions about neck pain
Is my neck pain a pinched nerve?
It might be. A pinched nerve usually causes pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness down the arm. Many people with neck pain have no nerve involvement, and your evaluation will tell the difference [1].
Can neck problems cause headaches?
es. Cervicogenic headaches start in the neck and often sit at the base of the skull or behind one eye. Guidelines support manual therapy and exercise for this type of headache [1].
Do I need imaging for neck pain?
Usually not. Imaging helps after significant trauma, with red flag symptoms, or when nerve symptoms are not improving. We will refer you if it is needed.
Can I keep working at a desk with neck pain?
Yes. We will help you adjust your setup and build movement breaks into your day so work stops aggravating your neck.
Cost and Booking
Do I need a referral?
No. You can schedule directly with us without a physician referral.
What does physical therapy cost?
Each visit is a flat $185. We are a cash-based practice, so there are no copays, deductibles, or insurance limits on your care. We can provide documentation for out-of-network reimbursement, and HSA and FSA cards are accepted.
References
-
Blanpied PR, Gross AR, Elliott JM, et al. Neck pain: revision 2017. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2017;47(7):A1-A83.
Questions about Neck Pain Treatment?
Get in touch so we can start working together.
