subject: Lawrenceville Chiropractor Answers Common Neck Pain Questions [print this page] Your head is the size of a bowling balland weighs about twice as much. Its no surprise that so many of us live with neck pain. According to some estimates, about 70% of Americans will suffer neck aches and pains at some point. Here are the FAQ about neck pain and how quality chiropractic care can provide safe and effective relief:
Why does my neck hurt?
Neck pain, which might be felt anywhere from the bottom of the head to the top of the shoulders, has a laundry list of causes.
Injury, including whiplash
Fatigue
Poor sleeping position
Slouching
Activities, such as painting a ceiling
Arthritis
Aging
In addition, there are more seriousalthough less commoncauses as well, such as infection and cervical stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal that can trigger pain, stiffness, numbness, and bowel and bladder control issues.
Are there alternatives to drugs or surgery?
Yes! Too often medical establishment turns to oral prescriptions, steroid injections, and, at worst, surgery. While there are some cases that warrant these traditional treatments, many cases of neck pain can be relieved without the expense or potential danger of meds or surgical treatment. If youre looking for a drug-free, scalpel-free alternative, its time to consider a chiropractor.
A 2006 study reported that before spinal adjustments began, 84% of patients reported neck pain so severe it restricted their activities. However, after chiropractic treatment, only 25% still experienced some level of activity restriction. Whats more, nearly 60% of activity-restricted patients at the start of the study described their disabilities as at least moderately severe. Following spinal adjustments, however, only 12% of patients said they still had moderately severe disabilities.
How will a chiropractor relieve my neck pain?
The first step is a consultation. Your chiropractic professional will discuss your concerns as well as talk to you about your condition and potential causes. The chiropractor will then examine you to test reflexes, mobility, and posture, etc. He or she may also order an X-ray to help develop the right treatment plan and rule out conditions that require medical attention, such as cervical stenosis.
After discussing treatment options, the chiropractor will often administer the first adjustment. Using hand manipulations, he or she will pull, push, or possibly twist the spine back into alignment. Some chiropractic doctors also use electrical stimulations or ultrasound therapy to relax the patients muscles. It typically takes several sessions to ensure the problem is treated and to prevent reoccurrence.
Neck pain treatments may not need to rely on drugs or scalpels. Try the alternative with a track record of relieving pain in a safe, effective mannerchiropractic care.
