Chiropractic Care 

NECK PAIN

The doctor of the future will give no medicine, 

but will interest patients in the care

of the human frame, in diet, and in the cause

and prevention of disease.

--Attributed to Thomas Edison

 

 

What is Chiropractic Care?

There's nothing mysterious about chiropractic. It's a natural method of health care that treats the causes of physical problems rather than just the symptoms. Chiropractic is based on a simple but powerful premise: With a normally functioning spine and a healthy lifestyle, your body is better able to heal itself. That's because the spinal cord, which is protected by your spine, is the main pathway of your nervous system. It controls feeling, movement, and function throughout your body.

Your chiropractor's education includes at least six years of training in the sciences and health care, leading to a doctor of chiropractic (DC) degree. He or she works to restore your health and guides you in a personalized approach to overall wellness--through spinal care, exercise, good nutrition, and stress management.

What Causes Neck Pain?

Your neck protects your spinal cord and spinal nerves, while supporting and balancing the weight of your head. Poor posture, wear and tear, injury, stress, and tension can strain or damage vital parts of your neck.

 

 

A Healthy Neck

Your neck (cervical spine) is aligned in a natural curve at the top of your spine. Damage to your neck's natural curve can cause painful problems.

 

 

An Unhealthy Neck

 

Can Chiropractic Help Me?

Your doctor of chiropractic looks at your overall health--focusing not only on your neck, but also on your lifestyle. This integrated approach helps determine the best treatment for your neck pain.

 

 

History

To help identify the cause of your problem, you and your chiropractor will discuss your symptoms and previous injuries, your family health history, and your lifestyle, including recreational and work-related physical activities.

 

 

Physical Exam

Physical, orthopedic, and neurological tests can help reveal the condition of your neck and the rest of your spine. Static and motion palpation tests check for stiffness, pain, muscle spasm, and restricted range of motion.

 

 

X-rays

As "blueprints" of your spine, x-rays can reveal misaligned vertebrae, arthritis, fractures, or other problems. Additional tests will be done, if necessary.

 

 

Diagnosis

Based on the examination and findings, your doctor of chiropractic may recommend an individualized treatment program to realign your neck and reduce your pain. If needed, your chiropractor will also consult with other medical specialists about your condition.

 

 

How Does A Chiropractor Treat Neck Pain?

Your doctor of chiropractor is uniquely qualified to restore the health of your spine and neck. Special chiropractic techniques may relieve the pressure that is causing your neck pain.

 

 

Spinal Adjustments

After locating the misaligned vertebrae in your neck, your chiropractor manually applies gentle pressure and repositions the vertebrae. These adjustments can help restore alignment, improve mobility, and relieve pain and stiffness.

 

 

Related Treatment

Your chiropractor may recommend other types of treatment for relieving your neck pain. These may include moist heat, ice packs, massage, traction, or stretching and strengthening exercises. Your chiropractor can discuss these with you.

What Can I Do to Keep My Neck in Shape?

Smart Support

Whether sleeping, sitting, standing, or driving, keep your neck healthy by remembering good posture--keeping a straight and well-supported spine. Your chiropractor can tell you about simple exercises for increasing the strength and flexibility of your neck.

Spinal Checkups

Just as you need regular dental exams, you also need regular spinal exams. Even if you don't have symptoms, chiropractic care is one of the best ways to help prevent spinal problems. Your doctor of chiropractic can help you and your family maintain healthier lives free of neck pain.

 

 

REFERENCES:

Consultant: Michael D. Pedigo, DC

Krames Communications 1993

 

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