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Neck pain & headaches from desk work
Hours at a screen load the neck and shoulders, and by mid-afternoon many people have a stiff neck or a headache. Physio treats the sore muscles and joints, then gives you a few changes to your set-up and short exercises that fit into a working day.
Common signs
- Tight shoulders and a stiff neck by the end of the day
- Headaches that build in the afternoon, starting at the base of the skull
- Pain when turning to check a second screen
- Worse during busy periods or deadlines
At your appointment
Linda looks at how your neck and upper back move, asks about your desk, screens and hours, and treats the area in the same session. Bring a photo of your workstation if you can.
What helps
- Hands-on treatment for stiff joints and tight muscles
- A short routine you can do at your desk
- Screen, chair and laptop changes that suit you
- Dry needling or taping where useful
See a GP, or call 000 in an emergency, for a sudden severe headache, neck pain with fever, or numbness, weakness, dizziness or trouble speaking.
Questions people ask
Is it my posture?
Usually it’s staying still for too long more than one “bad” posture. Moving more often helps most people.
Can I come before work?
Yes. Appointments start at 8am on Mondays and Thursdays. ~ Working from home in the western suburbs? Linda’s also at Chapel Hill Physio on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Written by Linda Lewis, Master of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, AHPRA registered. Last reviewed November 2026. General information only.