Neck Pain Treatments: Relieve Discomfort and Improve Mobility

Neck pain is one of the most common types of musculoskeletal issues. It can affect everything from daily routines to overall well-being. Fortunately, effective neck pain treatment can reduce discomfort and restore mobility, making a significant difference in your quality of life.

Common causes of neck pain

The neck, also known as the cervical spine, begins at the base of the skull and contains seven small vertebrae. The cervical spine supports the full weight of the head, which is, on average, about 12 pounds. Although the cervical spine allows the head to move in nearly every direction, this flexibility makes the neck susceptible to injury and pain.

Many factors can contribute to neck pain. Common causes include the following:

• Accidents and injuries
• Poor posture
• Prolonged computer or smartphone use
• Muscle strain
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Degenerative disc disease (DDD)

Neck pain treatment

Spinal adjustments

Chiropractors can use spinal adjustments to help individuals achieve long-term pain relief. They realign the cervical spine to help reduce pressure on the nerves and alleviate discomfort. Chiropractic adjustments and other chiropractic care, such as stretching routines and soft tissue therapy, can also improve mobility and reduce inflammation, improving the patient's recovery times and lowering the risk of future neck pain issues.

A 2021 review published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that chiropractic manipulation effectively treated acute neck pain. It also found that it can be safely combined with other neck pain treatments, such as medication and physiotherapy.

Mobilization

If a gentler approach is required to treat the patient's neck pain, the chiropractor may use mobilization techniques instead of a spinal adjustment. They can use slow movements, manual traction, and tension to reduce muscle tension and gradually improve joint mobility. The mobilization technique is especially effective for people with specific spinal adjustment limitations or acute neck pain.

Soft tissue therapy

Many chiropractors use soft tissue therapy in addition to spinal adjustments. When used with traditional chiropractic treatments, these therapies can improve the patient's healing process. Soft tissue therapies, such as massage therapy, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy, can improve blood circulation and reduce muscle tension.

Other techniques used in neck pain treatment

While chiropractors are known for performing spinal adjustments, they can also perform other neck pain treatments. Other common treatments include:

• Cold and heat therapy
• Stretching exercises
• Nutritional guidance and counseling
• Personalized exercise routines
• Electrical stimulation

What to expect during chiropractic neck pain treatment

During a neck chiropractic adjustment, also known as cervical manipulation, the chiropractor will use their hands or special instruments to rotate or stretch the neck, creating a popping or cracking sound. This fast, low-force pressure on the neck joints can help the patient regain their range of motion and reduce their painful symptoms.

Depending on their condition, the patient may need more than one session to correct their neck pain. Chiropractic treatments can continue for several weeks, with at least two or three sessions per week. However, this treatment plan varies from patient to patient.

Call our office to schedule a consultation

When looking for a neck pain treatment plan, it is important to work with a team that tailors the therapy to your needs. The Woods Chiropractic PC team is here to help. Call our office to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://www.woodsindychiro.com or call Woods Chiropractic PC at (317) 257-3919 for an appointment in our Indianapolis office.

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