What causes neck pain?
In many cases, chronically poor posture causes neck pain. For example, the average American spends more than five hours a day with their head tilted down as they scroll through their phone or tablet. Additionally, many patients work at computers all day and have to tilt their heads to see their screens.
Holding your head at even a slight angle for hours every day puts a significant amount of stress on the vertebrae and muscles in your neck. Over time, this physical strain causes neck pain and can lead to headaches, jaw pain, and upper back pain.
Other causes of neck pain include:
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Osteoarthritis
- Injuries like whiplash
- Muscle strain
Spinal alignment issues in your neck can cause nerve compression and muscle tension that cause neck pain.
When should I visit a chiropractor for neck pain?
Make an appointment at Inspire Chiropractic if you have neck pain that interferes with your life and overall wellness. For example, if you have a neck injury, such as whiplash from an automobile accident, make an appointment right away to start treatment to reduce the severity and longevity of your pain.
Additionally, if you wake up with neck pain or notice your neck becoming more stiff and painful throughout the day, visit Dr. Brosco Coletti for expert help. While you can try at-home therapies like heat and ice, there’s no substitute for professional chiropractic treatment.
How does a chiropractor treat neck pain?
Dr. Brosco Coletti begins with a thorough exam and consultation to evaluate your neck pain and identify its cause. She reviews your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle to collect information about your neck pain and potential causes.
When Dr. Brosco Coletti completes her assessment of your neck pain, she creates a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs, which might include:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Massage
- Physical therapy
- Spinal decompression
- Instrument-assisted soft tissue manipulation
Dr. Brosco Coletti can teach you stretches to practice at home to reduce tension in your neck and upper back. She might also recommend that you check your work station set up to make sure that your desk, chair, and screen are at the correct height to help you maintain proper posture throughout the day. Dr. Brosco Coletti can also recommend strategies for reducing your overall screen time.
If you have neck pain, call Inspire Chiropractic or request an appointment online today for expert chiropractic care.
