Neck Pain

Have you ever awoken in the morning and felt neck stiffness or pain? Have you ever finished some type of physical activity and just didn’t feel comfortable in your neck? How about backing up your car, and you can’t seem to turn your neck far enough to see behind you? These are all typical symptoms of neck problems that are caused by misalignments of the spinal segments in the upper back and neck. Why does it happen you might ask?

The neck or cervical spine, as it is called, is comprised of seven vertebrae. Surrounding these vertebrae are muscles, tendons, and ligaments. If the vertebrae is pushed out of place by poor posture, accidents or falls, or overuse, the muscles and tendons will be forced to stretch too far. This can cause pain and discomfort.

Also, this action of the connective tissue can force the spinal segments out of place, putting pressure on the spinal nerves. This whole syndrome can be very uncomfortable, and until the spine and connective tissues are helped back into their normal positions, the pain usually does not go away.

Evaluation:

Your health history will be discussed with you to find out why this condition has occurred. A physical examination of the appropriate regions will be performed, along with any necessary spinal xrays. While patients understandably want results as quickly as possible, these tests are needed to help us fully understand their problem so the most effective and efficient treatment can be given. The results of these tests will be given as quickly as possible. At that time, patients will also have the opportunity to ask any questions that they may have.

Treatment:

Some patients who have very mild occurrences of this symptom may actually get away with no treatment at all. After a few days the pain just seems to go away. This is not that uncommon, AT FIRST. Unfortunately, it has been my experience that unless the mobility of the spine is restored, this symptom will continue to return. And, usually each time it returns, it is worse than before.

The appropriate treatment for this type of symptom, in most cases, includes chiropractic adjustments of the spine, along with certain types of physiotherapy. The chiropractor adjustments help restore normal spinal motion, while the physical therapy including massage helps alleviate muscle tightness or spasms. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the condition, how often you have had the condition in the past, your age, and your normal activity level. Your treatment will be customized to your specific situation so that your results will be the quickest and longest lasting.