Neck Pain Treatment
Causes & Chiropractic Care | Aston Manor Chiropractors
What Is Neck Pain?
Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems people experience. It can range from a mild ache or stiffness to more severe pain that limits movement and makes everyday activities uncomfortable. Neck pain may develop gradually from posture, prolonged sitting or repetitive activities, or it may appear suddenly after an injury or awkward movement.
At Aston Manor Chiropractors, we assess the likely cause of your neck pain and tailor treatment to the structures involved, helping to reduce pain, restore movement and improve function.
How Common Is Neck Pain?
Neck pain is extremely common and can affect people of all ages. Many people experience neck pain at some point in their lives, and for some, it can become a recurring problem.
Modern lifestyles may contribute to the growing number of people experiencing neck discomfort. Spending long periods sitting at a computer, using a cellphone, driving, or looking down at devices can place prolonged stress on the muscles and joints of the neck.
Neck pain can also occur as we get older, when changes in the joints, discs and surrounding tissues may affect how the neck moves.
Who Is More Likely to Develop Neck Pain?
Although anyone can develop neck pain, some people are more likely to experience it.
People who may be at greater risk include those who:
Neck pain is not always caused by one specific problem. Often, several factors combine to create irritation and reduced movement.
What Areas Can Be Described as Neck Pain?
Neck pain does not always feel as though it is coming from one small area.
Some neck problems can also cause pain, tingling or numbness extending into the shoulder, arm or hand when nerves are irritated or compressed.
Because pain can travel away from the actual source of the problem, a proper assessment is important.
Common Causes of Neck Pain
There are many possible causes of neck pain. Some are related to muscles and joints, while others involve the discs, nerves or surrounding soft tissues.
Keeping the neck in one position for long periods can place continuous stress on the muscles and joints. This is particularly common with computer work, cellphone use and driving.
The muscles supporting the neck and shoulders can become tight or go into spasm after prolonged postures, overuse, stress or sudden movements. Tight muscles may restrict normal movement and contribute to ongoing discomfort.
The small joints in the neck help provide movement and stability. These joints can become irritated or stiff following injury, repetitive strain or prolonged poor positioning.
As we age, normal changes can occur in the discs and joints of the cervical spine. These changes do not always cause pain, but they can contribute to stiffness and discomfort in some people.
A sudden movement, fall, sporting injury or other accident can strain the muscles, ligaments and joints of the neck. Whiplash is one example of an injury-related neck problem and will be covered in more detail on our dedicated whiplash page.
How Can Chiropractic Treatment Help Neck Pain?
Chiropractic care focuses on assessing the muscles, joints, movement patterns and other structures that may be contributing to your neck pain.
Depending on the findings of your examination, treatment may include:
Treatment is individualised because the cause of neck pain is not the same for everyone.
Prevention: What Can You Do to Reduce Your Risk?
You cannot prevent every episode of neck pain, but there are practical steps that can reduce unnecessary strain.
Avoid remaining in the same position for long periods. Take regular breaks from sitting and computer work.
Your screen, chair and keyboard should allow you to work without constantly bending or reaching your neck.
There is no single perfect posture that you have to maintain all day. Changing position regularly is often more important.
When Should Neck Pain Be Assessed?
Many mild episodes of neck pain settle with simple measures, but persistent, recurring or worsening symptoms should be assessed.
Do not delay seeking professional assessment particularly when neck pain is accompanied by:
Early assessment can help identify the likely cause and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Neck Pain Can Affect More Than Your Neck
Even relatively simple neck pain can interfere with work, sleep, driving, exercise and everyday activities. When pain persists, people often begin avoiding movements because they are worried about making the problem worse. This can lead to increasing stiffness, reduced movement and muscle weakness.
The good news is that many causes of neck pain can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment, movement and practical changes to the factors contributing to the problem.
At Aston Manor Chiropractors, we assess your neck pain as an individual problem rather than treating every case in the same way. Our goal is to identify what may be causing your symptoms, reduce pain and help you return to normal movement and daily activities.
Do not feel that you have to simply live with ongoing neck pain. A proper assessment can help determine what is contributing to your symptoms and whether chiropractic care is appropriate for you.
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This information is provided for educational purposes and does not replace an individual medical or chiropractic assessment. Sciatica has several possible causes, and treatment should be based on the findings of an appropriate clinical examination.