Neck Pain Chiropractor

• Muscle Pain: This type of neck pain is caused by muscle strain from poor posture, lifting heavy objects, and stress. The pain may be felt as a dull ache or burning sensation in the neck muscles. It can also cause headaches, stiffness, soreness, and tenderness in the neck area.
• Muscle Spasm: Muscle spasms can cause sudden and intense pain in the neck. They can be caused by overuse, poor posture, or an underlying injury. The spasm may cause a tightening sensation around the base of the skull and radiating pain along the back of the neck.
• Headache: A headache can cause neck pain, but the two conditions are not always related. Headaches such as tension headaches and migraine headaches can cause neck pain due to the strain that is put on the muscles of the head and neck.
• Joint Pain: Arthritis is a common cause of neck pain. The inflammation caused by the condition can result in joint stiffness, swelling, and tenderness. If left untreated, arthritis can lead to chronic neck pain and limit movement in the affected area.
• Nerve Pain: Nerve pain, such as sciatica or brachial plexus neuropathy, can cause neck and shoulder pain. The condition is caused by damage to the nerves in the neck area, resulting in sharp or burning sensations.
• Referred Pain: Referred pain is a type of pain that is felt in one area of the body, but originates from another. It can be caused by nerve irritation or injury, inflammation, or muscle spasms and can cause neck pain in addition to other symptoms.
• Bone Pain: Bone pain, such as fractures or degenerative disc disease, can cause neck and shoulder pain. This type of pain is usually sharp and localized to the affected area. It may worsen with movement and be accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness or tingling.

Daily Exercises: It’s important to note that I’m not a healthcare professional, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified chiropractor or healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, especially if you have specific neck pain concerns. That being said, here are a few exercises that may help alleviate neck pain:

1. Neck stretches – Gently tilt your head to the right, bringing your right ear closer to your right shoulder. Hold for 15-30 seconds. Repeat on the other side. Gently tilt your head forward, bringing your chin toward your chest. Hold for 15-30 seconds. Rotate your head to the right, trying to bring your chin over your right shoulder. Hold for 15-30 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

2. Shoulder rolls – Sit or stand with your arms relaxed at your sides. Slowly roll your shoulders forward in a circular motion. Perform 10-15 circles. Reverse the direction and roll your shoulders backward for another 10-15 circles.

3. Chin tucks – Sit or stand with your back straight. Gently retract your chin by pulling it inwards, as if you’re trying to make a double chin. Hold this position for 5 seconds and then relax. Repeat 10-15 times.

4. Shoulder blade squeeze – Sit or stand with your arms relaxed at your sides. Squeeze your shoulder blades together, as if you’re trying to hold a pencil between them. Hold this position for 5-10 seconds and then relax. Repeat 10-15 times.

5. Posture exercises – Sit or stand with your back straight and your shoulders relaxed. Imagine a string pulling the top of your head towards the ceiling, lengthening your spine. Keep your chin parallel to the floor, avoiding slouching or jutting your head forward. Maintain this posture throughout the day, especially when sitting for long periods.

Remember, these exercises are general recommendations and may not be suitable for everyone. If your neck pain persists or worsens, please consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Techniques

When it comes to treatment there are several techniques that could help those who suffer from neck pain. Here are some of the most commonly used techniques:

Cervical Mobilization

Cervical mobilization is a therapeutic technique commonly used in chiropractic care to address neck pain and dysfunction. It involves the gentle and controlled movement of the cervical spine, which refers to the seven vertebrae in the neck region. Cervical mobilization aims to restore normal joint function, increase range of motion, and alleviate pain and stiffness. During a cervical mobilization session, a chiropractor may use various techniques to manipulate the neck joints. These techniques can include manual adjustments, traction, stretching, and soft tissue massage. The specific approach may vary depending on the individual’s condition and the chiropractor’s assessment. Cervical mobilization can be beneficial for a range of conditions affecting the neck, such as muscle strains, joint sprains, disc herniations, and osteoarthritis. It is often employed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include exercises, postural correction, and lifestyle recommendations. Chiropractors at Collective Chiropractic are trained professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, with a focus on the spine and nervous system. They utilize a holistic approach to care, aiming to address the underlying causes of pain or dysfunction and promote overall health and wellness.

Cervical Manual Traction

Cervical manual traction is a therapeutic technique used by chiropractors at Collective Chiropractic to treat conditions related to the cervical spine, which is the region of the spine located in the neck. It involves the application of controlled and gentle pulling forces to the neck in order to decompress the spinal joints and relieve symptoms. During a cervical manual traction session, the chiropractor will carefully evaluate the patient’s condition, assess the range of motion, and determine the appropriate amount of traction force needed. The patient is usually positioned lying down or sitting upright, and the chiropractor will apply a manual pulling force to the neck using their hands. The purpose of cervical manual traction is to create space between the vertebrae in the neck, alleviate pressure on the spinal discs, and reduce compression on the nerves or other structures that may be causing pain or discomfort. By gently stretching the neck, this technique can help improve joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and promote the natural healing process. Cervical manual traction is often used to treat conditions such as cervical radiculopathy, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and neck pain associated with poor posture or trauma. It is considered a conservative, non-invasive treatment option that can be used in conjunction with other chiropractic techniques, exercises, and lifestyle modifications to optimize the therapeutic outcomes. It’s important to note that cervical manual traction should only be performed by trained and licensed chiropractors who have expertise in this technique. They will carefully assess each patient’s condition, take into account any contraindications or precautions, and apply the appropriate amount of traction force to ensure safety and effectiveness. If you’re considering cervical manual traction or have specific concerns or questions about this technique, it’s recommended to consult with a chiropractor at Collective Chiropractic who can provide personalized advice and treatment based on your individual needs and condition.

Cervical Drop

Cervical drop, also known as cervical drop technique or cervical drop table, is a specialized chiropractic technique used to address misalignments and dysfunctions in the cervical spine (neck region). It is a specific form of chiropractic adjustment that utilizes a specialized treatment table with a segmented drop system. At Collective Chiropractic, we use the cervical drop technique to enhance the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments in the cervical spine. The cervical drop table consists of several sections that can be raised or dropped independently. These sections have a drop mechanism that allows for a quick and controlled drop when pressure is applied. During a cervical drop adjustment, the patient lies face up on the table while the chiropractor evaluates the alignment and mobility of the cervical vertebrae. The chiropractor then applies a gentle downward pressure or impulse to a specific cervical vertebra or segment. The drop mechanism of the table is activated, causing the section beneath the targeted vertebra to drop slightly, creating a quick and precise force that aids in the adjustment. This drop facilitates the release of tension, reduces joint restrictions, and helps restore normal movement and alignment in the cervical spine. The cervical drop technique is often used for conditions such as neck pain, headaches, cervical spine subluxations, and other related musculoskeletal issues. It is generally well-tolerated by patients and can be a comfortable and effective method of addressing cervical spine dysfunctions. It’s important to note that cervical drop adjustments should only be performed by trained and licensed chiropractors who have expertise in this technique. They have the knowledge and skills to assess your condition, determine if cervical drop is appropriate for you, and apply the technique safely and effectively. If you’re considering cervical drop adjustments or have specific concerns or questions about this technique, we encourage you to consult with one of our chiropractors at Collective Chiropractic. They can provide personalized advice and treatment based on your individual needs and condition.

When it comes to neck pain, there can be a variety of symptoms that individuals may experience. At Collective Chiropractic, we have seen numerous patients presenting with the following symptoms associated with neck pain:

1. Neck stiffness: A common symptom of neck pain is stiffness or restricted movement in the neck. It may feel difficult or uncomfortable to turn the head from side to side or tilt it up and down.
2. Neck soreness or tenderness: The neck may feel sore or tender to the touch. This can be localized or spread across a larger area of the neck.
3. Muscle tightness: Neck pain often involves muscle tightness in the neck and shoulder area. The muscles may feel tense and knotted, leading to discomfort and limited range of motion.
4. Headaches: Neck pain can frequently cause headaches, particularly tension headaches. These headaches typically manifest as a dull, aching pain that originates from the base of the skull and may radiate to the temples or forehead.
5. Radiating pain: Neck pain may radiate to other areas, such as the shoulders, upper back, or arms. This can result in aching, numbness, tingling, or weakness in these regions.
6. Reduced mobility: Neck pain can restrict the normal range of motion in the neck. It may become challenging to perform activities that require turning or tilting the head, such as driving, working on a computer, or participating in sports.
7. Difficulty sleeping: Neck pain can disrupt sleep patterns, making it challenging to find a comfortable sleeping position. This can lead to insomnia or a restless night’s sleep.
8. Associated symptoms: In some cases, neck pain may be accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, jaw pain, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus). These additional symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause of the neck pain.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by various factors, including muscle strain, poor posture, cervical disc issues, osteoarthritis, or even underlying medical conditions. If you’re experiencing neck pain or any associated symptoms, we recommend consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor, for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Corrective Exercises

These exercises may help to improve neck mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, and relieve discomfort. Remember, it’s always best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or chiropractor for personalized advice and guidance. Here are a few exercises that may be beneficial:

1. Neck Retraction:
   • Sit or stand with a straight back and look straight ahead.
   • Gently draw your head straight back, keeping your eyes facing forward.
   • Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times.
2. Shoulder Blade Squeeze:
   • Sit or stand with your arms relaxed by your sides.
   • Squeeze your shoulder blades together, as if you’re trying to hold a pencil between them.
   • Hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat 10-15 times.
3. Chin Tucks:
   • Sit or stand with your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
   • Gently tuck your chin in towards your chest, as if making a double chin.
   • Hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat 10-15 times.
4. Side Neck Stretch:
   • Sit or stand with your back straight.
   • Tilt your right ear towards your right shoulder, feeling a gentle stretch on the left side of your neck.
   • Hold for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides. Repeat 2-3 times on each side.
5. Levator Scapulae Stretch:
   • Sit or stand with your back straight.
   • Tilt your head to the right, and then rotate it slightly to the left.
   • Place your right hand over the top of your head and gently pull your head towards your right shoulder, feeling a stretch on the left side of your neck.
   • Hold for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides. Repeat 2-3 times on each side.

Remember to perform these exercises gently and within your pain tolerance. If any exercise causes increased pain or discomfort, stop and consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper evaluation and create a tailored exercise plan based on your specific needs.

Call us at Collective Chiropractic for effective treatments for neck pain through chiropractic care!