Neck Pain
Neck pain, or cervical pain, is a common issue affecting many people across New Zealand. The neck, composed of vertebrae extending from the skull to the upper torso, is supported by bones, ligaments, and muscles. Any abnormalities, inflammation, or injury in these structures can lead to neck pain or stiffness.
Common Causes of Neck Pain
Structural Misalignment of the Vertebrae: The spine, extending from the base of the skull to the pelvis, supports the upper body and stabilizes it. Misalignment in the spine can affect various parts of the body, not just the back.
Muscular Dysfunction in the Neck: The neck’s upright position is maintained by the spine and surrounding muscles. When these muscles become tight, sore, or dysfunctional, it can lead to poor posture, resulting in symptoms like headaches, dizziness, sore or tight shoulders, and neck pain.
Postural Abnormalities: Extra pressure on the spine’s joints can cause muscle imbalances and stress on the nervous system. Prolonged untreated neck pain can exacerbate these imbalances.
Symptoms of Neck Pain
At Total Body Chiropractic, we frequently see patients with neck pain, presenting symptoms such as:
- Pain worsened by holding the head in one position for long periods
- Limited movement or rotation
- Muscle tightness and spasms
- Headaches
- Aching or sharp pain
- A feeling of being stuck
- Difficulty sleeping or getting comfortable
- Irritability
Acute Neck Pain
Acute neck pain typically occurs suddenly or within a 0-48 hour window, often due to trauma or a restless night’s sleep. While acute pain can sometimes resolve on its own, seek medical advice if you experience:
- Headaches waking you at night
- Increased body temperature or fever
- Pain radiating down the arms
- Weakness in arms or legs
Chronic Neck Pain
Chronic cervical pain is defined as pain persisting for more than three months. It can be intermittent or constant and vary in intensity, often affecting sleep, mood, and productivity. If you experience chronic neck pain, consult a chiropractor or other health professional for advice.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
A systematic review of studies on cervical pain since 2000 indicates that chiropractic care can improve pain scores and mobility in patients. Chiropractic treatment includes manual adjustments, low-force techniques, soft tissue methods, and exercises, which aim to:
- Reduce pain levels
- Decrease the severity and frequency of headaches
- Alleviate muscle tension in and around the neck
- Increase range of motion
- Promote healthy nerve function
Experience and Expertise
At Total Body Chiropractic, we bring over 25 years of combined clinical experience in managing cervical pain. Our comprehensive approach ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their specific needs.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at Total Body Chiropractic. We are dedicated to helping you live a pain-free, healthier life.
