Some of the Most Common Causes of Neck Pain
The majority of instances involving neck pain are the result of simple overuse. If the muscles become too fatigued or should they be stretched in an incorrect manner, the buildup of tension can lead to chronic pain. The severity of discomfort will depend upon the type of strain.
Remaining in the wrong position for extended periods of time can likewise cause the muscles within the neck and shoulders to become stressed. Examples include sleeping in an awkward manner or staring down for significant amounts of time when using a mobile phone. Bad posture such as slouching is another contributing factor to chronic neck pain.
Neck pain can also be caused by a sudden and acute traumatic incident. Suffering from a fall or incurring an injury while playing sports are two common situations which might require short-term medical intervention. Some other circumstances that have been known to cause neck pain include:
- Whiplash
- Advanced arthritis
- Meningitis (medical attention should be sought immediately if this illness is suspected)
Of course, it is always wise to seek the advice of a professional, experienced and trained chiropractor in order to determine the exact cause.
Neck Pain Treatment Options
The good news is that there are a host of treatment options available. Early intervention can help to alleviate many of the symptoms mentioned above. There are also several recommendations which can be performed at home. For example, applying ice immediately after a strain can help to reduce any superficial swelling. This may also be used interchangeably with heat, as a hot compress will relieve tense muscle groups within the neck.
Stretching is another important practice to adopt. This should be performed slowly and with very little pressure. Simply roll the head back to forth and side to side. Over time, your levels of flexibility should increase. Always stop if the pain becomes worse.
Other habits such as practising yoga or specific breathing techniques can provide long-term results while offering a degree of flexibility that will help to prevent future strains.
Seeking Professional Help
While there are times when neck strains resolve themselves with little intervention, other situations might mean that a professional is required. Are you curious to learn more about your neck pain treatment options? If so, please contact Neuroworks to find out how chiropractic treatment can help neck pain.