Neck and Shoulder Tension; Causes, Symptoms, and Massage Solutions

Neck and shoulder tension is one of the most common complaints I see in clinic. It can appear as a dull ache, tightness across the upper back, or sharp pain that makes it hard to turn your head. While it’s often easy to ignore at first, tension in these areas can build up over time — leading to headaches, stiffness, and even postural changes.

At AB Massage Therapy, I work with clients who experience ongoing neck and shoulder pain caused by stress, poor posture, and muscle overuse. The good news? Remedial massage can make a real difference.

What Causes Neck and Shoulder Tension?

There are several common factors that contribute to tightness and pain in the upper body:

• Poor posture — Sitting at a desk or looking down at a phone for long periods causes muscles like the upper traps and levator scapulae to become overactive and fatigued.

• Stress and emotional tension — When we’re stressed, we often subconsciously raise or tighten our shoulders, creating chronic muscle tension.

• Repetitive strain — Lifting, driving, or repetitive arm movements can overload the shoulders and upper back.

• Muscle imbalances — Weakness in the mid-back and neck stabilisers can cause the front-line muscles to overcompensate.

• Injury or overuse — Old whiplash injuries or sports strain can lead to lingering tightness and restricted movement.

Common Symptoms

Neck and shoulder tension can present in different ways depending on which muscles are affected:

• Dull, aching pain in the upper back or neck

• Stiffness or reduced range of motion when turning the head

• Headaches (especially tension-type headaches)

• Tingling or referred pain into the arms

• A feeling of heaviness or fatigue across the shoulders

These symptoms often worsen after long periods of sitting or stressful days.

How Remedial Massage Helps

Remedial massage targets the root cause of muscular tension rather than simply masking the discomfort. Techniques may include:

• Trigger point therapy to release stubborn knots in the neck and shoulders

• Myofascial release to ease tight connective tissue

• Deep tissue techniques to improve blood flow and reduce muscle congestion

• Gentle stretching and mobility work to restore normal movement patterns

By increasing circulation, improving flexibility, and calming the nervous system, remedial massage helps reduce pain and tension — while promoting better posture and body awareness.

Supporting Your Recovery at Home

Massage works best when paired with simple daily habits:

• Take regular breaks from screens and stretch your neck and shoulders.

• Practice gentle mobility exercises to maintain movement.

• Focus on deep, relaxed breathing to reduce stress-related tension.

• Stay hydrated — muscle tissue thrives on good circulation.

Small changes like these can make a big difference in keeping pain at bay between treatments.

Find Relief with Targeted Care

If you’re experiencing ongoing neck or shoulder tightness, don’t wait for it to become chronic. A tailored remedial massage can relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore balance to your body.

At AB Massage Therapy, I provide personalised treatment plans to help you move freely and live without pain.