Neck pain can affect people of any age and be caused by a number of things, including injuries or underlying conditions. Chiropractic care is often used to treat neck pain. It focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal problems, especially those that are related to the spinal column. Chiropractors employ a variety of non-invasive methods to relieve neck pain, improve mobility, and promote healing.
This guide will explain how chiropractors treat neck pain. It will also describe how they diagnose problems and what to expect during treatment.
Understanding neck pain and its causes
Understanding the causes of neck discomfort is essential before deciding on a treatment plan. The cervical spine or neck is composed of seven vertebrae, as well as a complex network of muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The neck supports the head which can weigh up to 12 pounds and has a large range of movement. Neck injuries are common due to its constant movement and use.
Neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors.
- Poor posture: Long-term sitting, particularly with poor ergonomics, can cause neck muscle strain.
- Neck pain can be caused by accidents, whiplash or sudden movements.
- Chronic neck pain can be caused by degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease.
- Stress: The tension in muscles caused by stress can cause neck and shoulder discomfort.
- Pinched nerves can cause radiating pain down the arms.
Chiropractor’s Approach to Diagnosing neck pain
The first thing you should do when visiting a chiropractor to treat neck pain is to have a thorough diagnostic. The chiropractor will then be able to determine the cause of your discomfort. Diagnostic procedures include:
- Medical History: Your chiropractor will ask you about your medical history, symptoms that are currently present, and specific events which may have caused neck pain.
- Physical Exam: The chiropractor will conduct a detailed physical exam to assess the range of motion in your neck, as well as muscle strength and alignment.
- Imaging Tests: The chiropractor may recommend imaging test such as X rays or MRIs in some cases to gain a better view of the neck spine and rule out serious conditions such as fractures or herniated disks.
Chiropractic Techniques for Neck pain
The chiropractor will then create a treatment plan that is tailored to you. Chiropractic care is non-invasive and drug-free. It focuses on improving function and relieving pain. Here are some common chiropractic techniques that can be used to treat neck problems:
1. Chiropractic Adjustments (Cervical Manipulation).
The cervical manipulation is one of the most popular treatments for neck discomfort. It’s also called a chiropractic adjustment. During the procedure, the chiropractor applies controlled force using their hands or small instruments to your neck joints. The chiropractor’s goal is to realign vertebrae and improve joint mobility in order to reduce pain.
Cervical manipulation can be effective in relieving neck stiffness and improving range of movement, as well as reducing pressure on pinched or irritated nerves. Many patients feel immediate relief following an adjustment. However, multiple sessions may need to be performed for long-term effects.
2. Soft Tissue Therapy
Chiropractic doctors often combine spinal adjustments with soft tissue therapy in order to treat neck muscle tension and inflammation. Massage, trigger point therapy and myofascial releases are all techniques that chiropractors use to loosen tight muscles, break down scar tissue and improve blood circulation to the affected area.
Soft tissue therapy helps to relieve tension and stress caused by injury, promote circulation and speed up healing.
3. Therapeutic Exercises
Chiropractic doctors often prescribe specific stretches and exercises to compliment in-office treatment. These exercises strengthen neck muscles, increase flexibility and improve posture. All of these contribute to pain relief over the long term and prevent future issues.
Muscle tightness can be relieved by neck stretches, such as gently tilting your head backwards, forwards, and from side to side. Strengthening neck muscles with isometric hold can help build resilience. This will provide better support for your cervical spine.
4. Postural Corrections
Neck pain is often caused by poor posture, especially for people who spend long periods of time at a computer or on their phone. Chiropractic doctors can help you improve your posture by assessing it. They may suggest ergonomic adjustments such as changing your computer’s screen height or using a seat that supports your natural spine curve.
You can prevent neck pain by improving your posture.
5. Lifestyle and Nutritional Advice
Chiropractic care is holistic, meaning that it goes beyond simple manual adjustments. Chiropractors can offer nutritional and lifestyle advice to promote healing and overall health.
They may, for example, suggest that you include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet or recommend joint supplements to support joint health. They may also give tips on how to manage stress, since emotional stress can aggravate neck pain and cause muscle tension.
6. Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression therapy is used by chiropractors to treat patients with herniated disks or pinched nervouss in the cervical spinal column. This technique involves stretching the spine gently to relieve pressure from the discs and the nerves. It can reduce pain, promote healing, and improve disc nutrient exchange.
Spinal decompression can be a non-invasive option to surgery for people with neck pain due to disc problems.
Benefits of chiropractic care for neck pain
Chiropractic care can provide several benefits to people with neck pain.
- Non-Invasive Therapy: Chiropractic treatments do not contain drugs and are non-invasive. They can be a safer alternative to medication or surgery.
- Holistic Approach: Chiropractic doctors treat the entire body. They do not only address the symptoms, but also the cause of pain.
- Personalized Care – Treatment plans are customized to the unique conditions of each patient, so that they get care tailored to their needs.
- Chiropractic care can offer long-term relief by addressing the underlying causes of neck pain, such as poor posture or misalignment.
Natural Pain Relief
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, safe and effective treatment for neck pain. Chiropractic care can relieve pain, improve mobility and boost overall health through a combination spinal adjustments, soft-tissue therapy and lifestyle advice. Chiropractic care can help restore balance and function to the spine and muscles, whether your neck pain stems from poor posture, an injury or chronic conditions.
This article was written by a professional at Island Breeze Chiropractic and Wellness Center. Island Breeze Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Tamarac offers comprehensive chiropractic care. Chiropractic care in Tamarac FL Our experts are specialized in many services, including Interferential Current and Chiropractic Adjustment. We offer X-Rays as well as Soft Tissue Techniques including Dry Cupping, Laser Therapy, Hot Stone Massages and Ice Therapy. Our Tamarac personal injuries doctor is known for his specialized infant chiropractic care. Our local pregnancy doctor provides tailored care for expectant mothers. Island Breeze Chiropractic and Wellness Center provides personalized wellness services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.