Chances are you’ve experienced a stiff or sore neck at one time or another. Given the complex mechanics and function of the neck, it’s no wonder that neck pain is so common.
Occasional minor neck stiffness is nothing to worry about. Often it will go away with a good night’s sleep. Major pain or recurring problems, however, are a signal that something serious may be wrong. They are a sign that you need professional care.
A sudden injury such as a fall or a car accident may cause damage to the neck. Often though, damage occurs slowly over time from poor posture, wear and tear and even emotional stress. Another cause is spinal imbalance, which occurs when the head is not balanced over the rest of the spine. Spinal imbalance can be both a symptom and a cause of stress on your neck.
Injuries and imbalances can cause cervical vertebrae to move out of their correct position. Soft tissues (such as tendons, ligaments and muscles) can become inflamed or worn out. The discs separating and cushioning the cervical vertebrae can herniate (bulge), or even rupture (burst). Nerves can be damaged or irritated from misaligned cervical joints or bulging or ruptured discs.
Problems with the neck can lead to symptoms of pain and reduced range of motion. Neck problems can also lead to pain in the face, shoulder, arm, wrist, hands, or finger. Even seemingly unrelated conditions such as headaches and vision disturbances can be due to neck problems.
The chiropractic approach to treating neck pain is to find the source of the neck pain and correct it. By correcting the source of the problem, the body can heal naturally. Neck pain often responds dramatically to the restoration of normal spinal function through chiropractic care.
The chiropractor’s primary tool in treating malfunction is the use of adjustments (spinal manipulation). Applying precise directed force to a spinal joint that is out of position or not moving properly helps gradually restore it to a more normal position and function.
Your chiropractor may also recommend therapies to compliment your adjustments.
While some patients seek chiropractic care only when pain is unbearable, this “crisis” approach often costs more in the long run – in time, stress and dollars. The sooner you seek professional care, the sooner you’ll find relief from your pain. Don’t continue to suffer.
For more information, contact Advanced Healthcare in Stevenson Ranch at 661-799-0777 or Palmdale at 661-273-1101. You can also visit www.chiro4all.com .