Chiropractic Care for Neck Pain
Neck pain is one of the most common reasons we see patients. Your neck, also called the cervical spine, contains many small vertebrae that support the weight of your head while supporting the connection between your brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. Your neck is strong, but its delicate structure and flexibility make it susceptible to strain and injury.
The biomechanics of everyday living contribute to the wear and tear of your cervical spine, so even prolonged sitting, accidents, falls, normal aging, osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, poor posture, repetitive movements, and blows to the head can lead to chronic pain and headaches.
Chiropractic Care
Seeing a chiropractor about your neck pain is essential in correcting an injury. During your visit, we will ask you a series of questions and perform an exam to locate the source of your pain. We will ask about your current symptoms and if you have already tried to alleviate the pain alone. A few of these questions may include:
- When did the pain start?
- Does the pain travel to other parts of your body?
- Are there movements that reduce the pain?
- Are there movements that make the pain worse?
- What measures have you taken to reduce the pain already?
A portion of the exam will also include a physical component where we will observe your range of motion, posture, and physical condition so they can note any movements that cause you pain. We will also examine your spine to note any curvature and alignment and for tight muscles or spasms.
In some cases, there may be a request for additional imaging tests like an x-ray, an MRI, an EMG, or a CAT scan to check for bone spurs, fractures, arthritis, herniations, bulging discs, or nerve damage before moving forward with a treatment plan. There are instances where treatments are out of the chiropractic scope of practice, like surgeries or medications, and you’ll be directed to your medical physician.
Neck Adjustments
When your treatment is in the scope of chiropractic care, cervical adjustments are given to help improve mobility and to restore the range of motion. These cervical adjustments will also increase movement in the adjoining muscles. Typically, patients notice improved mobility, reduced pain, soreness, and stiffness.
Additionally, we may include additional treatments depending on your profile and the best-case planning for your needs. This may consist of massage therapy, rehabilitative services, or exercise.
Next Steps
Although neck pain is a common reason we see patients, each person has individualized needs that require an individualized treatment plan. If you are experiencing neck pain, talk to us to assess whether we can help you have an improved standard of living. Neck pain doesn’t have to be a part of aging, nor should it be tolerated until it “resolves itself.”
Getting Back Into The Gym
We all start the new year with good intentions. We want to write more, learn something new, pick up a new hobby, or get into the best shape of our life. But for many of us, something changes and we fall right back into old habits and routines. Going to the gym the first month of the year looks very different than going to the gym the ninth month of the year. So, what is the best way to get back into the gym?
If you have fallen back into old habits and feel inclined to wait until the first day of the new year, then we are here to tell you that the best time to get back into taking care of your body is now. This does not mean jumping right back into a tough routine, but easing back into maintaining a moderate level of activity should be the goal.
Ease Back Into a Workout Regimen
New year’s resolutions can be great. They also create a type of urgency that is challenging to maintain. When it comes time to create new habits or routines, the best way to do this is slowly. Managing your expectations is key. Start by going to the gym once a week for 30-45 minutes, or join a class. Building your motivation over time will allow you to develop the discipline you need to maintain new routines. As you already know, the more you workout, the better you feel and the more likely it is that will want to continue to feel good. The frequency will seemingly increase on it’s own, as will the progress you will see and feel in your body.
Hitting the gym hard from day one is never recommended by chiropractors because of the potential for injuries. But small, incremental changes are something we stand behind!
What About Nutrition?
Changing your body composition starts in the kitchen. Consuming high nutrient foods, water, and supplements will give your body what it needs to feel good. Feeling good is the ultimate goal, and your gut health plays a big part in managing your moods and sleep. Plus, the better you feel the more likely it is that you will maintain your workout routine.
Something is Better Than Nothing
Moving your body once a week is better than not moving it at all. Don’t allow competing with others discourage you from making healthier choices for yourself. Take your time and enjoy the process of getting to know what works for you. Many people lose their footing once they have had a few interrupted weeks, then never get back to regular workouts. This does not have to be your story.
Visit Us
Regular Chiropractic care will allow you to ensure you are using proper form and increasing your activity levels at a reasonable rate. Adjustments will ensure your body is able to perform at its peak!
