While chiropractic is ideal for correcting and minimizing painful symptoms in the back, keep in mind that the spine goes all the way up through your neck. This area, known as the cervical spine, may experience different types of trauma that present their own unique set of challenges. Let’s do a deep dive on the neck from a chiropractic perspective: How is it constructed? What activities or disorders may cause harm to the sensitive muscles and nerves housed there? How can you find relief from pain? Read on for the answers to these questions and more.
First, the cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae in total, starting at the base of your skull. The first two vertebrae nearest your skull, called the atlas and the axis, hold your head upright and allow for side-to-side movement, respectively. The cervical spine is surrounded by a collection of muscles, ligaments, and nerves that allow for full range of motion. As a whole, these individual parts make up your neck.
There are several things that could cause damage to these delicate inner workings. Some of these events are traumatic and occur immediately, while others take place slowly over time. See below for some examples:
• Accidents & Injuries. From sports injuries to car accidents, your neck is often the first to feel the effects. Whiplash is among the most common traumatic injuries, and it can cause stiffness, headaches, and even dizziness.
• Degenerative Disk Disease. This can cause the disks between your cervical vertebrae to wear thin and lose their natural elasticity. Patients typically experience pain, tingling, or numbness.
• Poor Posture. Sitting or standing without the proper support can put an enormous strain on your cervical spine. This wears on the body over time.
• Stress & Tension. When your stress levels are elevated, the muscles in your neck tighten, causing stiffness.
When you begin consulting a chiropractor, they’ll typically complete an exam to determine the root cause of your neck pain. From there, treatment consists primarily of neck adjustments. Chiropractors are trained in the precise application of pressure to realign vertebrae, relieve painful symptoms, and restore function to the spine. A wide array of stretches and therapies, prescribed by your chiropractor on a case-by-case basis, may be the perfect complement to regular spinal adjustments.
If you’re suffering from neck pain, we invite you to join us here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte. Our team of doctors is passionate about the health and wellness of our patients. Contact us today to request an appointment!