Atlas Family Chiropractic, P.C.

Neck pain is a fairly common condition. Sources of neck pain can be as simple as falling asleep with your neck at a bad angle. Other causes include bad posture while using a computer, watching TV or even reading a book. You may also experience neck pain as a result of accidents, chronic conditions, and even aging, when the effects of osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, can manifest in neck pain. In many cases, neck pain is minor and goes away on its own. When neck pain lasts for more than a day or two, however, it may be time to seek chiropractic care. Chiropractic treatment for neck pain offers a safe, non-invasive and drug-free therapy.

Chiropractic Treatment of Neck Pain

Chiropractic adjustments are an important part of the treatment program for neck pain. This drug-free therapy simply involves the chiropractor using his or her hands to treat subluxations. A subluxation occurs when one or more vertebrae move out of position, thus creating pressure and irritation near the spinal nerves. Spinal adjustments can fix the subluxation, relieve pain in the soft tissues, increase circulation, and stimulate the body’s nervous system.

Contrary to popular belief, spinal manipulation and spinal adjustments are not painful. When you seek chiropractic treatment for neck pain, the treatment is precise and gentle. Chiropractors are trained as experts in the spine and how to manually return motion to restricted spinal joints. They do not merely “pop” or “crack” bones until something “snaps” back into place.

Ultrasound is another popular non-invasive therapy that chiropractors use to treat neck pain. Ultrasound works by helping to increase blood circulation, which in turn reduces swelling, stiffness, and painful muscle spasms. When the sound waves from the ultrasound machine are released deep into your muscle tissues, they create a gentle therapeutic heat.

After spinal manipulation, spinal adjustments, or ultrasound, your chiropractor may recommend that you use an ice pack on your neck to further control inflammation. This cold therapy can be completed at home and is an excellent supplement to traditional chiropractic treatment for neck pain.

Once your chiropractor has helped to get your neck pain under control, he or she may suggest exercise, diet, or lifestyle changes to improve your range of motion, strengthen muscles, and prevent a painful relapse. If your condition does not seem to be improving within a reasonable time frame, however, you may be referred to a another specialist for further treatment.

Chiropractic offers a unique and valuable mechanical approach to a wide range of neck problems.