Why does my neck hurt and how do I get rid of it?

Why does my neck hurt?

There are many possible reasons why your neck may be hurting, such as poor posture, injury, or a medical condition. Some common causes of neck pain include muscle strain, herniated discs, and arthritis. It is recommended that you see a Chiropractor to determine the cause of your neck pain and to receive an appropriate treatment plan.

The most common cause of neck pain is actually bad posture

Bad posture can put extra stress on the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in your neck, leading to pain and discomfort. Some common postural problems that can cause neck pain include:

• Forward head posture: When your head is jutting forward, it can put extra strain on the muscles in the back of your neck, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Rounded shoulders: When your shoulders are rounded forward, it can cause the muscles in your upper back to become tight and fatigued, which can lead to pain and discomfort in the neck.
• Slouching: Sitting or standing with a slouched posture can put extra stress on the muscles and ligaments in your neck, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Text Neck: Constantly looking down at your phone or tablet can cause your head to be in a forward position, putting additional weight on your neck

Correcting your posture can help alleviate neck pain and prevent it from recurring. This can be done through exercises, such as neck stretches and strengthening exercises for the upper back and shoulders, and by paying attention to how you hold your body throughout the day. A chiropractor can also help you to correct your posture and provide exercises and other treatments to help alleviate neck pain.

The next most common cause is due to injury

There are several types of injuries that can cause neck pain. Some common examples include:

• Sprains and strains: These are injuries to the ligaments and muscles in the neck, respectively. They can be caused by sudden movements, such as a whiplash injury from a car accident, or by overuse of the muscles.
• Herniated disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the outer ring. This can put pressure on the nerves in the neck, leading to pain and other symptoms.
• Fractures: A break in a bone in the neck can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the head and neck. These types of fractures are usually caused by high-impact trauma, such as a car accident or fall from a height.
• Cervical spondylosis: is a degenerative condition caused by wear and tear on the discs and joints in the neck, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
• Cervical radiculopathy: is caused by a compressed nerve in the neck and can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arm and hand.

It's important to see a chiropractor if you have neck pain that is severe, accompanied by other symptoms. They can help determine the cause of your pain and provide an appropriate treatment plan.

How can chiropractic care help my neck pain?

Chiropractic care can help alleviate neck pain by addressing problems with the alignment and movement of the spinal column and the surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments. A chiropractor will typically perform a physical examination and possibly take x-rays to assess the condition of your spine and neck.

The treatment may include spinal adjustments, also known as manipulation, which are designed to correct any misalignments in the spine, reduce muscle tension and inflammation, and improve the range of motion. Chiropractors may also use techniques such as deep tissue massage, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to help alleviate pain and stiffness in the neck.

What is a Chiropractic spinal adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment, also known as manipulation, is a procedure performed by a chiropractor to correct misalignments in the spine. The goal of an adjustment is to improve the function of the joints in the spine, reduce muscle tension and inflammation, and improve the range of motion.

During an adjustment, the chiropractor will use their hands to apply a controlled force to a specific joint in the spine. The force is applied in a specific direction to help restore proper alignment to the joint. The adjustment is usually performed while the patient is lying down, but it can also be done while the patient is seated or standing.

The specific technique used by chiropractors may vary, but the most common ones are:

• Diversified technique: This is the most widely used technique and is characterized by a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust.
• Activator technique: This is a low-force technique that uses an adjustable spring-loaded tool to deliver a precise and gentle impulse to the spine.
• Gonstead technique: This technique is characterized by a thorough examination and precise adjustments to specific areas of the spine.
• Thompson technique: This technique uses a drop table that allows the chiropractor to adjust the spine with less force.

Chiropractic adjustments are generally considered safe and effective for treating a wide range of conditions including neck and back pain, headaches, and many more.

Chiropractic care may also include recommendations for exercises and lifestyle changes, such as changes in posture, to help prevent the recurrence of neck pain and improve overall spinal health.

Improving your posture can help alleviate neck pain and prevent it from recurring. Here are a few tips for improving your posture:

• Keep your shoulders back and down: Try to keep your shoulders in a neutral position, rather than rounded forward.
• Engage your core: Your core muscles help to support your spine, so make sure to engage your abdominal muscles when sitting or standing.
• Keep your head in a neutral position: Try to keep your head in a neutral position, rather than jutting forward or tilting to one side.
• Use a chair with good lumbar support: When sitting, use a chair that supports the natural curve of your lower back.
• Use a laptop or monitor at eye level: When working at a computer, make sure your monitor is at eye level to avoid looking down and putting extra strain on your neck.
• Take frequent breaks: If you have to sit for a long time, take regular breaks to stand up, stretch and walk around.
• Exercise regularly: Engaging in regular exercises such as yoga, stretching, and strengthening exercises for the upper back and shoulders can help improve your posture and alleviate neck pain.

It's also important to note that maintaining good posture is a continuous process and a habit that you need to develop over time, so be mindful of your posture throughout the day and make adjustments as needed. A chiropractor can help you to correct your posture and provide exercises and other treatments to help alleviate neck pain.

It's important to note that a Chiropractor's approach to treatment may vary, and it's always best to consult with a qualified chiropractor to know how they can help with your specific condition.