There are several neck pain treatment options available to you or your loved one trying to cope with the condition. Since you're here, you're likely considering chiropractic care at Ironwood Chiropractic. During your consultation, our Richmond, BC, chiropractor, Dr. Michael Gagnon, will explain how cervical adjustments and rehabilitative therapies can provide long-term relief for underlying dysfunction triggering pain.
What Causes Neck Pain?
The neck portion of the spine is naturally designed to allow the head to turn in almost every direction. On top of that, it supports the weight of the head and helps stabilize the upper back. Tasked with these functions and being subjected to repetitive use makes the neck prone to strains, sprains, misalignment, and pain.
Some common causes of pain are muscle tension from physical or emotional stress and neck strain from poor posture. Examples of improper posture include prolonged arching of the head and improper body alignment during sleep. Other causes neck pain are:
- Osteoarthritis
- Head or neck trauma, such as whiplash
- Disc injuries, such as a herniated disc
- Trapped nerves caused by spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine)
- Facet joint injury
- Bone spur
Common Symptoms
You might be able to ignore a dull ache, but not a sharp, stabbing pain or any of the following other symptoms:
- Neck stiffness or instability
- Muscle tightness or spasms
- Loss of range of motion
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Pain that radiates to the shoulder, upper back, or arm
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the shoulder, upper back, or arm
Chiropractic Care for Neck Pain from Our Richmond, BC, Chiropractor
The first thing that needs to be done is a physical exam, potentially followed by x-rays of the spine. Further testing may be needed to assess potential problems with spinal discs, nerves, or the musculoskeletal system. Doctor Gagnon may elect to perform cervical adjustments if one or more spinal joints are pushed out of alignment. A high or low velocity trust technique is used to manipulate the joints back to their natural position. This non-surgical, drug-free treatment option provides lasting relief for pain and improves overall nervous system function. Other chiropractic neck adjustments benefits include:
- Reduced inflammation
- Less headaches or migraines
- Increased flexibility and range of motion
- Faster healing of the discs, joints, and soft tissue
In keeping with the goal of treating the "whole person," Dr. Gagnon may recommend massage therapy, corrective exercises, nutritional counseling, and/or lifestyle changes to help avoid a pain relapse.
Call or Visit Our Experienced Chiropractor Today
Don't get comfortable with cervical pain, especially if you were involved in an accident or suffered a blow to your head. Call Ironwood Chiropractic at 604-271-3234 to request an appointment if you're in Richmond, BC, or a neighboring city.
