TOPCHIRO
Neck Pain and Neuralgia
Neck discomfort and nerve-related concerns like neuralgia can sometimes originate from the upper cervical spine. Our care at Top Chiropractic focuses on this critical area, aiming to reduce pressure and restore balance in the nervous system. With gentle, precise Upper Cervical Chiropractic adjustments, we support your body’s natural processes, helping you feel more at ease and improving overall mobility and wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions – Neck Pain and Neuralgia
Can chiropractic care help with neck pain or nerve issues?
We do not treat neck pain or neuralgia—we support spinal and nervous system function.
What is neuralgia from a chiropractic perspective?
We do not treat neuralgia—our focus is on spinal alignment and nervous system balance.
Is Upper Cervical care different from regular chiropractic?
Yes. It is highly specific and focused on the top two vertebrae in the neck.
We do not treat conditions—we provide care that supports the nervous system.
What is neck pain & neuralgia?
Neck pain and neuralgia are related but distinct conditions that can cause significant discomfort. Neck pain typically refers to discomfort or stiffness in the neck area, often caused by poor posture, muscle strain, arthritis, or injury. Neuralgia, on the other hand, is a type of nerve pain characterized by sharp, shooting, or burning sensations, which can sometimes affect the neck if nerves in that region are compressed or irritated. Cervical neuralgia, for instance, occurs when nerves emerging from the cervical spine are inflamed or pinched, leading to pain that may radiate to the shoulders, arms, or even the head. While neck pain can be muscular or skeletal, neuralgia specifically involves nerve dysfunction or damage.
Neck pain and neuralgia symptoms?
-
Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain in the neck or radiating to the shoulders and arms
-
Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the neck
-
Tingling, numbness, or “pins and needles” sensations, especially in the arms or hands
-
Muscle spasms or tightness in the neck and upper back
-
Headaches, particularly at the base of the skull
-
Increased pain with movement, especially turning the head
-
Sensitivity to touch or light pressure along the affected nerves
-
Weakness in the arms or hands, if nerve compression is significant
What are the Common Causes of neck pain and neuralgia?
Neck pain and neuralgia can arise from a variety of physical and medical conditions. One of the most common causes is poor posture, particularly from prolonged periods of looking down at phones or sitting at desks with inadequate support. Muscle strain from sudden movements or heavy lifting can also lead to neck pain. Degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis and cervical spondylosis can contribute to wear and tear in the cervical spine, resulting in chronic pain and stiffness. Injuries, such as whiplash from car accidents or sports, often cause soft tissue damage that leads to both acute and long-lasting neck pain.
Neuralgia in the neck region is frequently linked to nerve compression or irritation, often caused by herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis. These conditions can put pressure on the nerves that exit the spinal column in the neck, resulting in cervical radiculopathy—nerve pain that radiates to the shoulders, arms, or upper back. In some cases, infections like shingles or underlying diseases such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis can damage or inflame nerves, leading to neuralgia. Stress and tension may also contribute by causing muscle tightness that indirectly affects nerve function.
TOPCHIRO
Neck pain, neuralgia and The Upper Cervical Spine
Neck pain and neuralgia are common yet often debilitating conditions that can significantly affect quality of life. The upper cervical spine—where the base of the skull meets the top of the neck—is a critical region that plays a central role in both structural alignment and neurological function. Misalignments in this area, particularly at the atlas (C1) and axis (C2), can lead to nerve irritation, muscle tension, restricted mobility, and radiating pain. This can result in symptoms such as sharp, shooting discomfort, burning sensations, or numbness often referred to as neuralgia. Because the upper cervical spine closely surrounds the brainstem and major cranial nerve pathways, dysfunction here can also contribute to headaches, dizziness, and poor postural control. Gentle, specific chiropractic adjustments to this area can restore alignment, reduce nerve pressure, and support the body’s natural ability to heal. By addressing the root cause—not just masking the symptoms—you can experience real, lasting relief from neck pain and neuralgia. Reclaim your mobility, ease, and peace of mind with care that empowers your nervous system and your overall wellbeing. It’s time to take back control of your health—and discover the key to your best life.
Neck pain & neuraligia research
A growing body of evidence from the Vertebral Subluxation Research Foundation and affiliated journals supports the clinical link between upper cervical vertebral subluxation and neurogenic pain syndromes such as neck pain and neuralgia. In patients experiencing chronic cervical discomfort, occipital neuralgia, and nerve-related symptoms like tingling, numbness, or radiating pain, chiropractic interventions focusing on the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae have shown positive outcomes. Case studies and clinical reports describe improvements in neck mobility, reduced nerve irritation, and decreased pain intensity following upper cervical adjustments. These results are especially notable in individuals with a history of whiplash or head trauma, where neurological symptoms were linked to mechanical dysfunction at the cranio-cervical junction. While large-scale trials are still needed, early research and case-based evidence suggest that correcting upper cervical subluxations may provide significant relief for patients struggling with both mechanical neck pain and neuralgic conditions. This reinforces the importance of spinal alignment in maintaining healthy nerve communication and reducing chronic pain at its source.
Reference:
Vertebral Subluxation Research Foundation. (2023). Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Vertebral Subluxation and Neuralgia: A Review of Upper Cervical Case Studies. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research.
Neckpain and neuralgia
Customer testimonials
TOPCHIRO
Neckpain and neuralgia Testimonials
“Since my first session treated by Christian I had my first deep pain free sleep“
“I have had a need to attend the TOPCHIRO practice in London after failing to receive adequate treatment from the NHS. I had been seen by, Consultant Surgeon, Sports Consultants, Neurosurgeon, Doctors, Nurses, Paramedics, Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, Acupuncturists and all failed to find why I was suffering my signs and symptoms. All declared I had nothing wrong with me.
In despair after four years of constant neck pain and nightly suffering occipital neuralgia I was advised to try a specialist upper cervical chiropractor by a friend. I attended the Top Chiropractic practice where I was given a CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography Scan) at the imaging centre in Harley Street and the findings explained. I was given an adjustment and returned and since my first session treated by Christian I had my first deep pain free sleep. I have been given a treatment plan and I have eight more sessions to attend but already my quality of life has improved immeasurably.
For any serving or veteran military personnel who have problems with the upper cervical spine and have not found relief through the NHS and would like to attend his sessions but feel daunted by attending a clinic and treatment in London because of location and cost, the practice is easily found at 11 Welbeck St, London W1G 9XZ. (Just a 30 minute easy walk from Kings Cross railway station.) If the cost is daunting you can apply to SSAFA for help in funding to be able to do so. I will write again to explain the outcome of the full course of treatment.”
Sgt T Glover BEM (RAF Regt ret’d)
“The treatment plan keeps me free of pain and discomfort“
“Cannot recommend Top Chiro enough, have a computer and mobile phone neck issue which the doctor just wanted to brush off with pain killers and physio without investigations. Top chiro took detailed info and xrays to identify and fully understand the issue and the treatment plan keeps me free of pain and discomfort allowing me to get on with life. Thank you Christian.”
Jo Fuller
“Would highly recommend”
“Great patient care from the very start of my journey. Dr Robin has be instrumental in the progress of my head and neck pain. Would highly recommend.“
Richard Flaherty
“If you are suffering from neck pain, please do not suffer any further, Top Chiropractic are miracle workers“
“You hear about life changing experiences from others but until you experience it for yourself, it seems like a myth. After suffering with neck problems and connected symptoms for over 10 years, I entered a vicious circle of pain killers, medication and numerous expensive treatments.
My seemingly never ending journey led me to Top Chiropractic and their London clinic after watching a video which summed up my life living with neck pain. Although the journey was further than I would normally travel, this is a testament to the life changing treatment that kept me returning.
Elliott was understanding and thorough with his work, which put me at ease and provided full trust in his ability. If you are suffering from neck pain, please do not suffer any further, Top Chiropractic are miracle workers and I have no doubt in recommending their services.”
Liam Rushmer
“A great upper cervical chiropractor“
“Saw Elliot at Top Chiropractic. Identified a misaligned atlas which explained away my neck pain. Then provided a very gentle adjustment. I’ve been looking for a great upper cervical chiropractor and have now found one!“
Jo Fuller
Not feeling great, but not sure why?
Book a FREE discovery call
Schedule a FREE 15 minute call to ask any questions and talk about your symptoms
