Is neck pain serious?
Almost everyone experiences neck pain, either as a result of poor posture, overuse, or an injury. In most cases, neck pain is easy to treat and subsides within 24-48 hours. For example, if you sleep in an awkward position, you may wake up with a stiff neck. Applying ice and taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) for a few days should provide relief.
Sometimes, neck pain points to a more serious health problem. If you experience neck pain that lasts for more than a week or your pain increases in severity, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with the team at Woudsma Chiropractic Associates.
What causes neck pain?
Your neck features a complex network of vertebrae, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and muscles. Although these tissues are incredibly durable, they’re also susceptible to injury and general wear-and-tear. Common causes of neck pain include:
- Poor posture
- Car accidents
- Sports injuries
- Meningitis
- Fibromyalgia
- Slipped discs
Rheumatic illnesses also impact the health of your neck. For example, if you have osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, you’re more likely to experience neck pain.
What are some of the common neck-related conditions you treat?
The team at Woudsma Chiropractic Associates diagnoses and treats several neck-related conditions, including:
Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when your head snaps back and forth at a rapid rate of speed, usually as the result of being rear-ended in an automobile accident. People who play contact sports like football and hockey are also at risk. Common symptoms of whiplash include neck stiffness, headaches, tingling, and numbness.
Headaches
The team at Woudsma Chiropractic Associates takes a conservative, holistic approach to headache treatment. Depending on your symptoms, they may recommend massage, chiropractic adjustment, or nutritional counseling.
Migraines
Migraines are a type of headache that cause a series of severe neurological symptoms, including sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and excruciating pain. Doctors often prescribe medications to treat migraines, but these medicines can present unpleasant side effects. Chiropractic care treats migraines using a conservative, all-natural approach.
How is neck pain diagnosed and treated?
At Woudsma Chiropractic Associates, the team diagnoses neck pain during an in-office consultation.
Your provider performs a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms. Your chiropractor may also order an X-ray or MRI to get a closer look at your spine and vertebrae.
After pinpointing the source of your discomfort, your provider develops a treatment plan to align with your individual needs. This may include gentle, hands-on chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, exercise therapy, or a combination of treatments.
If these methods aren’t effective, your chiropractor may recommend a special neck pillow, neck brace, electronic stimulation, or Biofreeze™ pain reliever.
If neck pain prevents you from living your best life, chiropractic care is worth considering. Make an appointment at Woudsma Chiropractic Associates today by calling or clicking the online booking tool.
