There are seven small vertebrae located in the neck, or cervical spine. Because the neck supports the head, which usually weighs about twelve pounds, it can be very susceptible to injuries. The most typical causes of neck pain are:
· Growing older
· Accidents and injuries
· Daily life
Degenerative disorders such as osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease affect the spine directly. Whiplash is the most common neck injury and it normally occurs in car accidents. Poor posture, obesity, and weak abdominal muscles often disturb the spine. In order to compensate these issues, the neck will bend forward causing stress and tension in the muscles which causes the neck pain and stiffness.
Chiropractic treatment for neck pain consists of a thorough examination, x-rays, testing range of motion and the curvature of the spine, and possible neurological tests for further diagnosis. EMG tests are common among nerve damage because it tests to see how well your nerves respond. Neck adjustments improve spine mobility and restore range of motion.
According to The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, patients who had severe neck pain showed a significant improvement on pain level after receiving a chiropractic manipulation. Adjustments also loosen up the joints of the vertebrae in the cervical spine, or neck, and can reduce the pain that may be caused by muscle spasms and pinched nerves.
It may be necessary to do a few stretches or neck exercises at home to help the vertebrae heal quicker, along with the visits to the chiropractor. The doctor will give any helpful information that will aid in the recovery of the neck injury. The positive thing about chiropractic care is that it treats the origin, and underlying root, of the problem rather than temporarily masking up the symptoms.
If there is a pinched nerve in the neck then it is very common to have shooting pain down the arms and into the hands. If neck pain is caused by normal wear and tear of everyday living then it’s never too late to start taking care of the spine. Prolonged sitting can cause weakness in the muscles that support the spine, so it’s important to get up and stretch or walk around every couple of hours throughout the day.
If necessary, an orthopedic pillow will align the neck properly so there isn’t any extra stress put on the vertebrae and muscles. Chiropractic care is highly recommended for those who are suffering from neck pain.
David L. Greene, MD, Phoenix, AZ is CEO of Preferred Pain Center which serves the Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ metropolitan and surrounding areas. He can be reached at dgreene@preferredpaincenter.com and (602) 507-6550.
Preferred Pain Center is a Comprehensive pain clinics in Arizona Center including Medical and Interventional Pain Management, Chiropractors Scottsdale AZ Treatment, Physical Therapy, Spinal Decompression Therapy, and Manipulation Under Anesthesia.
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Marco Abanico is a curator for DFWChiromassage Spine Blog and a chiropractor in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. He is a leading authority on how to relieve spine pain easily and naturally. His clinic has helped thousands of patients put an end to their neck and back pain. If you are considering surgery for neck pain relief or if other forms of treatment have not worked, CALL US and ask us about our $40 exam and first treatment special at 513-580-4930 or logon to DFWChiroMassage Spine Blog.