Chiropractic For Neck Pain: What You Need To Know
First things first! Before I talk about chiropractic for neck pain, let’s understand some basics about the neck so you can see how it might help you.
Some Facts About The Neck
Anatomically, the neck is known as the cervical spine. There are seven bones (C1-C7) which protect the delicate spinal cord and the cervical nerves (8). These nerves are responsible for innervaton of the should girdle and the arms.
The neck is the most mobile area of the back and it is supported by a complex system of muscles, ligaments and tendons. These work to maintain head carriage which is remarkable as the head weighs around 4.5-5 kg. Quite heavy! Additionally, there are blood vessels and nerves connecting the brain and body, the airway to the lungs and the oesophagus, through which food passes, to the stomach. The thyroid gland is situated in the throat. All in all, rather a complex set of structures.
Neck Pain
The lifetime prevalence of neck pain is around 40-70% with more women affected than men. NICE Mechanical neck pain or non-specific neck pain is the most commonly experienced type of neck pain and can be caused by one or more factors
- Daily activities
- Poor posture
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Work activities
- Excessive tension on muscles in neck and upper back
Common symptoms of mechanical neck pain are
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Low mood
What Can I Do About Neck Pain?
You can help yourself by keeping active. Return to work with appropriate support as soon as possible. See the charity Backcare’s information (here).
Chiropractic for Neck Pain
Chiropractos are trained to diagnose and treat problems relating to the spine. Accordingly, you will be assessed to establish if chiropractic is appropriate for your neck pain before you receive treatment.
Spinal Adjustments
Chiropractors use spinal manipulations (adjustments) to correct misalignments in the vertebrae of the spine, including the neck. These adjustments can help restore better function and reduce pain.
Mobilisation
In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may use gentle mobilization techniques to increase the range of motion in the neck and back and to reduce stiffness, which can ease pain.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Chiropractors may also work using soft tissue techniques like massage or myofascial release to address muscle spasms and tightness that could be contributing to neck pain.
Posture and Lifestyle Advice
Bad posture, prolonged sitting, or improper lifting can contribute to neck pain.
Accordingly, when you receive chiropractic for neck pain you will also be offered advice on ways to improve your posture and ergonomics. You may also be given exercises to help strengthen the muscles that support the neck and back.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Chiropractors may recommend specific exercises to stretch tight muscles and strengthen weak ones. These are not only for the neck but also include exercises for the lower back, abdomen, and legs, which can help with long-term relief and prevent recurrence.
Take Action
Now that you have considered chiropractic for neck pain, it is time to take the next step either with a free advisory consultation or start your recovery with a first visit.
Looking forward to connecting
Vanessa