Neck Pain

Considering the stresses and strains the neck is subjected to every day, it is not surprising so many people suffer with neck pain. Generally speaking, chiropractic treatment is very effective for this condition.

Some of the most common causes of neck pain have a postural foundation. Incorrect sitting posture for hours at a time, day after day, will inevitably cause abnormal wear and tear on the neck. Eventually neck pain and stiffness will be the result. Proper workstation ergonomics to support good back and neck posture is important to avoid cumulative stress on the neck.

Looking down at screens, mostly mobile phones (“texting neck”) for extended periods of time is one of the most prevalent causes of chronic neck pain today.

Sleeping awkwardly can also strain the neck. Stomach sleeping is problematic as the neck is rotated to an extreme position for hours at a time. Lack of adequate pillow support, sleeping on one arm or with the neck at the wrong angle is a common cause of acute neck pain on waking in the morning. Correct sleeping posture using a proper neck support pillow is the best way to avoid these types of neck problems.

Stress, anxiety and depression can make neck pain worse, as muscles tend to tighten in response to stress. Chronic muscle tension in the neck and shoulders is a major contributing factor to neck pain and tension headaches.

When neck pain is caused by muscle strain, there may also be aching and stiffness that spreads to the upper arm and forearm. Shooting pain that extends down the arm into the hand and fingers is a symptom of a “pinched nerve” or nerve entrapment in the neck. Numbness, tingling, muscle weakness and pain of the arms and hands may occur with a pinched nerve. If left untreated, this can result in deterioration of the nerve, with permanent impairment including muscle weakness and loss of sensation in the arm and hand. For this reason it is important to receive proper evaluation and treatment.

Whiplash injury to the neck is caused by a sudden movement of the head backwards and forwards or sideways. An impact or collision causes the head to suddenly jerk back and forth beyond its normal limits, causing ligament damage, muscle strain, possible disc injury and even fracture of the vertebrae. Whether from a car accident, a fall, a sporting injury or an accident at work, whiplash or neck injuries warrant a thorough chiropractic examination, with a medical referral if necessary.

Osteoarthritis or joint degeneration of the spinal joints occurs due to the accumulation of stresses and injuries over time, particularly in the neck. The overall effects of degenerative changes of the spine with aging leads to a feeling of stiffness and discomfort, especially in the neck. This can be alleviated with proper chiropractic treatment and massage therapy. However, just like any other part of the body, the better care that is taken of the spine, the less degeneration is likely to occur.

See our range of neck support pillows for all ages HERE

For neck pain consultation, diagnosis and treatment, contact us at Blue Vista Health Centre.

Our service area includes Bullaburra, Wentworth Falls, Lawson, Leura, Katoomba, Hazelbrook and the greater Blue Mountains.