WHAT CAUSES NECK PAIN?
Neck pain can stem from a variety of risk factors, including poor posture, prolonged computer use, stress, muscle strains or sprains, whiplash injuries, and degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. Individuals experiencing neck pain may report symptoms ranging from a dull ache and stiffness to sharp, shooting pain that can radiate into the shoulders and arms, sometimes accompanied by headaches or numbness.
Neurostructural chiropractic offers a comprehensive approach to addressing neck pain by focusing on identifying and correcting underlying structural misalignments in the cervical spine. Through gentle and specific adjustments, along with soft tissue therapies and rehabilitative exercises, the goal is to restore proper spinal biomechanics, reduce nerve irritation, alleviate muscle tension, and ultimately provide long-term relief and improved function.
NECK PAIN SYMPTOMS
-
Sharp or Dull Pain: Pain can be constant or intermittent, and can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing sensations.
-
Stiffness: Difficulty moving the head or turning the neck due to muscle tightness or joint stiffness.
-
Radiating Pain: Pain that extends from the neck into the shoulders, upper back, arms, or hands. This can be a sign of nerve involvement or disc problems.
-
Numbness or Tingling: A sensation of “pins and needles” or numbness, often down one arm or hand, which may indicate nerve compression.
-
Headaches: Tension in the neck muscles can lead to tension-type headaches or even migraines.
-
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending the neck forward, backward, or side to side.
-
Muscle Weakness: A feeling of weakness in the arms, hands, or fingers, which can occur if nerves are compressed or irritated.
WHAT CAUSES NECK PAIN?
-
Poor Posture: Sitting or standing with poor posture, such as slouching or looking down at screens for extended periods, can lead to strain on the neck muscles and joints. This is commonly referred to as "tech neck."
-
Muscle Strain: Overuse or sudden movements can strain the muscles and ligaments in the neck. Activities like heavy lifting, sports, or sleeping in an awkward position can contribute to muscle tightness and discomfort.
-
Injury: Whiplash from a car accident or any sudden jerking motion can cause damage to the soft tissues (muscles, ligaments) and joints in the neck, leading to pain and stiffness.
-
Herniated or Bulging Discs: The discs in the neck (cervical spine) can degenerate or become damaged, leading to irritation of nearby nerves. This can cause neck pain that radiates down into the arms or hands.
-
Arthritis: Degenerative changes to the cervical spine due to osteoarthritis can cause neck pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. This is often a common condition in older adults.
-
Nerve Compression: If a nerve in the neck becomes compressed or irritated due to disc problems or misalignments (subluxations), it can lead to pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, or arms.
-
Stress and Tension: Chronic stress can cause muscle tension in the neck and upper back, leading to discomfort and pain.
CHIROPRACTIC APPROACH TO NECK PAIN
Spinal Adjustments
Postural Education
Stretching & Strengthening
Gentle, targeted manipulations to correct misalignments (subluxations) in the neck and spine, which can reduce pressure on nerves and improve mobility
Teaching proper posture techniques to prevent strain on the neck and spine during daily activities.
Exercises may be provided to improve flexibility and muscle strength in the neck and upper back.