NECK PAIN

What is Neck pain?

Many people experience neck pain or stiffness occasionally. In many cases, it’s due to poor posture or overuse. Sometimes, neck pain is caused by injury from a fall, contact sports, or whiplash.

Typical symptoms include:

• Varying degrees of pain; mild to intense
• Sharp, dull, throbbing, and/or burning pain
• Stiffness, difficulty moving the neck or upper body
• Swelling

Causes of Neck Pain

Poor posture is the most common cause of neck pain.  This is why keeping your neck in good spinal alignment is so important.

When your head is in normal alignment it is balanced on top of your cervical spines.   Your muscles work to maintain this position and easily withstand short periods of variation. Problems arise when we assume awkward positions for prolonged periods.  The fine balance is disturbed and the nerves, muscles, joints, ligaments and discs of your neck become strained and irritated.

The neck strain and pressure accumulates overtime to a point where it becomes painful and even the smallest changes in posture cause significant effects. Coupled with the stresses and demands of modern life, it is no surprise why neck pain is so common.

Other common causes of neck pain include whiplash, arthritis and sporting injuries.

Whiplash

Whiplash is a common type of sprain often referred to a hyperextension and hyperflexion injury. This occurs when a person’s head moves backward and then forward suddenly with great force. This injury is most common following a rear-end car collision. It can also result from physical abuse, sports injuries, or amusement park rides..

In addition to the general symptoms, whiplash symptoms may include headache, dizziness, jaw pain and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

Symptoms of a cervical sprain or strain may be similar to other spinal disorders. If pain or symptoms persist or worsen, call our office for an appointment. We will provide you with excellent information to help you recover and stay healthy.