neck pain

Neck pain

The neck is a very important part of our body, containing the very top of the spine, called the cervical spine as well as many blood vessels and nerves that supply structures including our esophagus, larynx, trachea and thyroid gland. The neck is also home to major blood vessels including the carotid arteries and jugular veins.

Neck pain is a relatively common ailment, of which most of us will experience at least once in our lifetime. In most cases, neck pain will improve and disappear on its own, but if you frequently suffer from this problem, or find that conventional ways of relieving your pain are not working, you may want to consider seeking us out for Chiropractic care.

When there is tension in the neck, it can have a significant impact on the flow of blood between the head and body, as well as cause compression of the nerves and potentially the spinal cord. When this happens, it can have an effect on other areas of the body, including the upper and lower limbs.

Joint dysfunction due to improper biomechanics (movements of the neck joints) can also cause a domino effect of joint dysfunction to occur throughout the rest of the spine, due to something called coupled patterns/ motions.

​​​​​​​What causes neck pain?

In many instances, the exact cause of neck pain may never be known, but some of the most common causes believed to be behind the majority of cases include:

• Bad posture
• Sleeping in an awkward position
• Trapped or pinched nerve(s)​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ (radiculopathy)
• Segmental joint restriction
• An injury, such as from a vehicle collision or fall​​​​​​​
• Herniated discs
• Cervical spine stenosis
• Cervical degenerative joint disease
• Cervical degenerative disc disease
• Cervical sprain/ strain

The pain you experience may also differ. It may be a constant dull ache or a sharp pain that occurs when you place your head a certain way or perform a specific movement, such as turning your head from side to side.

In many cases, neck pain may be accompanied by other symptoms, including swelling or inflammation in the neck, pain that radiates into the shoulders or upper arms, or headaches.

How can DOC.VAID help reduce my neck pain?

Chiropractic physicians specialize in treating problems with the musculoskeletal system which consists of the bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons in your body that enable movement. This includes your cervical spine which is the top part of the spine located in your neck.

Chiropractic care involves several different elements, and the treatment you receive will depend on the extent and cause of your discomfort. It may involve a combination of spinal realignment using manual manipulation or instrument assisted chiropractic adjustments, cervical traction, acupuncture, cupping or massage therapy. Your Physician is also trained and experienced in giving advice regarding lifestyle changes that you may wish to participate in to alleviate your condition further or prevent additional episodes from occurring. This can include guidance on nutrition, exercise, and recommendations for sleeping positions and relieving stress.

You don't have to continue to suffer from neck pain. Our trained and highly experienced Chiropractic Physician can help alleviate your discomfort. Please contact our offices today to arrange your consultation. Book online or call us at (312) 779-0335​​​​​​​.