New research proves what your Brighton chiropractor already knew: spinal manipulation really works for neck pain.

Why This Breakthrough Study Matters for Brighton Residents Suffering from Acute Neck Pain

When acute neck pain strikes, Brighton residents face a bewildering array of treatment options. Should you book an appointment with your GP, visit an NHS physiotherapist, seek out a massage therapist, or perhaps try acupuncture? Each professional has their go-to approach, but which one actually delivers the best results?
Your GP will typically prescribe pain relief medication or anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen—a helpful short-term solution that masks symptoms rather than addressing the underlying issue. NHS physiotherapists often focus on postural advice and rehabilitation exercises, whilst massage therapists concentrate on soft tissue work, and acupuncturists employ needle therapy to stimulate healing responses.
Whilst these approaches certainly have their place in healthcare, they often fall short of tackling the root mechanical dysfunction causing your pain. This is precisely why this new research, published in May 2025, is so significant for anyone experiencing sudden-onset neck pain.
The study provides compelling evidence that spinal manipulation—the cornerstone of chiropractic treatment—offers superior effectiveness for acute neck pain. Whether you’ve woken up with a stiff neck that won’t budge, or you’ve twisted awkwardly and found yourself in sudden agony, this research gives you the confidence to know that chiropractic care isn’t just another option—it’s the most effective one.

The Science Behind Spinal Manipulation: What the Latest Research Reveals

Whilst spinal manipulation has long been used to manage neck pain, its effectiveness and safety for sudden-onset neck discomfort remained a point of scientific debate—until now. This groundbreaking research set out to provide definitive answers.
The study employed a systematic review and meta-analysis, examining data from multiple high-quality research trials. This approach represents the gold standard in medical research, as it combines evidence from numerous studies to deliver the most reliable conclusions possible.
Researchers analysed eight randomised controlled trials involving nearly 1,000 patients with acute neck pain. The results were remarkable: spinal manipulation significantly reduced pain intensity whilst simultaneously improving neck mobility. Perhaps most importantly for patients’ quality of life, these improvements translated into meaningful reductions in disability, helping people return to their normal daily activities more quickly.
Safety was another crucial finding. The research confirmed that spinal manipulation, when performed by qualified practitioners, proved safe with no serious adverse reactions reported across all studies. This evidence should reassure patients considering chiropractic treatment for their acute neck pain.

How a Skilled Chiropractor in Brighton Can Transform Your Neck Pain Experience

The research confirms what many of our Brighton patients have already discovered: spinal manipulation therapy is a highly effective treatment for sudden neck pain. However, the real magic happens when your chiropractor combines this hands-on treatment with a comprehensive approach tailored to your specific needs.
Rather than relying on spinal adjustments alone, our experienced Brighton chiropractors typically create a treatment plan that might include targeted neck exercises to improve your range of movement, gentle mobilisation techniques to ease stiffness, and personalised advice to prevent future episodes. This integrated approach addresses both your immediate pain and the underlying factors that contributed to your discomfort.
What sets professional chiropractic care apart is the expertise to know exactly which combination of treatments will work best for your particular situation. Your Brighton chiropractor will assess your condition thoroughly and design a treatment programme that gets you back to full mobility as quickly and safely as possible.
Whilst the research shows excellent results, scientists are continuing to study the most effective ways to apply these treatments. This ongoing research ensures that your local chiropractor stays at the forefront of evidence-based care, constantly refining their techniques to deliver even better outcomes for patients with acute neck pain.

Real Results from Real Patients: Success Stories from Our Brighton Clinics

“I started going to Sundial as I had severe pain in my neck and was at the end of my tether. Matthew diagnosed the problem & after a course of treatments my neck is now pain free. I now visit Sundial about three times a year to ensure the problem doesn’t reoccur.” Kirsty FJ

“The staff at Sundials helped with an emergency situation from a neck injury I have. I was suffering from terrible pain. I had massage, acupuncture and was given strengthening exercises using resistance bands. They are specialists in their field. The definitely helped alleviate the symptoms. And really I would advise starting a program with them.” Luci O

The Brighton Advantage: Why Location Matters When Choosing Your Chiropractor

Location truly matters when you’re dealing with neck pain, and our central Brighton clinic offers unparalleled convenience for busy professionals and residents alike. Strategically positioned in the heart of the city, we’re perfectly placed on major bus routes, making it effortless to reach us from anywhere in Brighton and Hove. Whether you’re travelling from the seafront, the university area, or surrounding suburbs, public transport links connect you directly to our door. For those driving, you’ll find convenient on-street parking nearby, whilst several public car parks are just a short walk away, ensuring you’re never stuck searching for a space when you’re already in discomfort.
The beauty of our central location means treatment fits seamlessly into your daily routine. Fancy nipping out during your lunch hour for a quick consultation? No problem. Need to pop by after work before heading home? We’ve got you covered. Our accessible location means you don’t have to rearrange your entire day around your appointment—instead, effective neck pain treatment becomes as convenient as grabbing a coffee. Being just minutes from Brighton’s main train station also makes us the ideal choice for commuters who work in London but want quality chiropractic care closer to home.
At our Brighton clinic, convenience meets expertise through our straightforward three-step process that gets you back to feeling your best. First, we conduct a thorough consultation to understand your pain, lifestyle, and concerns. Next, we provide a clear diagnosis, explaining exactly what’s causing your neck pain in terms you’ll understand. Finally, we deliver effective treatment using safe, gentle techniques refined through decades of experience treating neck pain. Our team of highly qualified chiropractors brings years of expertise to every appointment, ensuring you receive not just convenient care, but the highest standard of professional treatment available in Brighton.

Book Your Consultation: Find Relief with a Trusted Chiropractor Brighton Residents Recommend

Don’t let acute neck pain control your life any longer. With research-backed evidence supporting the effectiveness of spinal manipulation, there’s never been a better time to take action and reclaim your comfort.
Booking your consultation couldn’t be simpler. You can book an appointment online through our website at your convenience—perfect for busy schedules or late-night browsing when pain keeps you awake. Prefer to speak to someone directly? Give us a call during business hours, and our friendly team will find an appointment time that works around your commitments.
If you’re local to central Brighton or Kemptown, why not pop in and book in person? Our welcoming reception team can arrange your consultation on the spot and answer any questions you might have about our three-step treatment process. Whatever method you choose, you’re just one step away from expert care that gets results.

About the Authors

Matthew Bennett is the founder of Sundial Clinics, Brighton, with over 35 years of chiropractic expertise. A Fellow of the Royal College of Chiropractors and former President of the British Chiropractic Association, Matthew has served as team chiropractor for Brighton and Hove Albion FC and the British Alpine Ski Team. He specialises in sports performance, injury prevention, and evidence-based treatment approaches. Matthew regularly lectures healthcare professionals, serves as an expert witness for clinical cases, and has appeared in national media as a chiropractic authority. His commitment to cutting-edge techniques ensures optimal patient outcomes at Sundial Clinics.

Reference: Diao, Y., Liu, Y., Pan, J. et al. Efficacy and safety of spinal manipulative therapy in the management of acute neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Syst Rev 14, 97 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-025-02855-7

Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Treatment for Neck Pain in Brighton

Q: Is spinal manipulation by a chiropractor effective for acute neck pain?

A: Yes, recent systematic review research involving nearly 1,000 patients across 8 randomised controlled trials proves that spinal manipulation significantly reduces acute neck pain intensity and improves neck mobility. The treatment also meaningfully reduces disability, helping patients return to normal daily activities faster than other treatment approaches.

Q: How safe is chiropractic spinal manipulation for sudden neck pain?

A: Spinal manipulation is very safe when performed by qualified chiropractors. The latest research found no serious adverse reactions across all studies reviewed. Professional chiropractors in Brighton have decades of experience using gentle, controlled techniques specifically designed for acute neck pain conditions.

Q: What should I expect during my first chiropractic consultation in Brighton?

A: Brighton chiropractors typically follow a three-step process: (1) A thorough consultation to understand your pain, medical history, and lifestyle factors, (2) A clear diagnosis explaining exactly what’s causing your neck pain in understandable terms, and (3) Effective treatment using evidence-based spinal manipulation techniques tailored to your specific condition.

Q: How quickly does chiropractic treatment work for acute neck pain?

A: Many patients experience significant improvement after their first treatment session. The research shows that spinal manipulation provides both immediate pain relief and improved neck movement. Most acute neck pain cases respond well within 3-6 treatment sessions, though this varies depending on the severity and underlying cause of your condition.

Q: Should I see a chiropractor or GP for sudden neck pain?

A: While GPs typically prescribe pain medication or anti-inflammatories that mask symptoms, research demonstrates that chiropractic spinal manipulation addresses the root mechanical dysfunction causing acute neck pain. Chiropractors provide evidence-based treatment that not only relieves pain but also improves function and prevents recurrence.

Q: Where is the best chiropractor located in Brighton for neck pain treatment?

A: Central Brighton locations offer the greatest convenience, with easy access via bus routes, nearby parking, and proximity to Brighton train station. The ideal clinic allows you to pop in during lunch hours or after work, making regular treatment sessions manageable alongside your daily routine.

Q: What makes Brighton chiropractors different from other healthcare providers?

A: Brighton chiropractors combine evidence-based spinal manipulation with comprehensive treatment plans that may include targeted exercises, gentle mobilisation techniques, and personalised advice. This integrated approach addresses both immediate pain relief and long-term prevention, backed by decades of clinical experience.

Q: Can I book a same-day appointment with a Brighton chiropractor?

A: Sundial Clinics offer flexible booking options including online booking, telephone appointments, and walk-in consultations for local residents. Central locations in Queens Road and St James’s Street make it convenient to book in person if you’re already in the Brighton area and need urgent neck pain treatment.

Q: Does chiropractic treatment work better than physiotherapy for neck pain?

A: Research specifically comparing treatments shows spinal manipulation provides superior results for acute neck pain compared to exercise-only approaches. While physiotherapy focuses on rehabilitation exercises and postural advice, chiropractic treatment directly addresses the mechanical dysfunction causing your pain through hands-on spinal manipulation.

Q: How much does chiropractic treatment cost for neck pain in Brighton?

A: At Sundial Clinics, each session costs £44 and the number of sessions needed vary depending on the complexity of your condition. Most Brighton chiropractors offer transparent pricing and will discuss treatment plans during your initial consultation. Many patients find the investment worthwhile given the rapid, effective relief from acute neck pain and improved quality of life.