Neck pain is one of the most common complaints that motivate patients to seek chiropractic care. Doctors of chiropractic are experts at eliminating the spinal problems associated with neck pain. If you suffer from neck pain, you know how debilitating this condition can be. It interferes with your work, exercise, family activities and what’s worse is that it can cause mere physical anguish. Instead of relying on pain killers that will only mask the symptoms on a temporary basis, chiropractic care can end your pain for good.
Many individuals who suffer from neck pain often suffer from a straightening or reversal of the neck’s natural curve. When the spine is viewed from the side, the cervical spine should form an arch that is mostly convex at mid-neck. However, many people, especially those that work at desks or computers have cervical spines that actually arch forward, known as ‘military necks’ and some even suffer from reversed curves. The straightening of the natural curve weakens the deep muscles of the neck, since the muscles are forced to hold the spine in anatomically ill-defined posture. These weakened muscles are susceptible to injury and pain.
Chiropractors correct the areas of the spine where movement is restricted or vertebrae (bones) are misaligned. These areas known as subluxations are commonly found in individuals that have straightened or reversed cervical curves. Chiropractors detect the areas of misalignment with gentle maneuvers called spinal adjustments. The specialized adjustments restore motion and alignment to the spine in turn warding off the disorders associated with vertebral subluxations, including neck pain.
The chiropractic approach to ending neck pain is one that is revolutionary. Chiropractic uses specific spinal manipulations to correct the underlying cause of the disorder, rather than masking the symptoms with drugs. For this main reason, chiropractic may be more effective then painkillers for long-term neck pain prevention. In addition to chiropractic adjustments, chiropractors use other all-natural approaches to keep neck pain at bay. Some of these other approaches include postural training, ergonomic suggestions, cold therapy, nutritional supplements and specific exercise programs. Physiological factors may also influence the individual’s neck discomfort. Individuals who feel they lack control in their work environment may suffer from significantly higher risk of neck discomfort and pain. Chiropractors stress the importance of mental well being as well as stress reduction programs such as yoga, and meditation.
It is essential to seek chiropractic care at the first sign of neck pain or stiffness. Neck problems are often the initial manifestation of a chronic spinal disorder. The spine works as a unit, not as isolated segments. Misalignments in the neck may eventually cause bio-mechanical dysfunction in the mid-back, low back and into the hips. Nerves from the spinal cord that exit between the cervical vertebrae can become compressed by neck dysfunction leading to shoulder, arm and hand conditions if not attended to. It’s important to be proactive and get to the root of your spinal problems before they are given the opportunity to spread. See your chiropractor today.
Comments on this entry are closed.