Neck Pain

back view of neck pain

From sleeping awkwardly to gazing down at our digital devices, neck pain can be a real nuisance, and it is a common problem that affects individuals of all ages and lifestyles. Although various factors can cause it, poor posture, muscle strain, and stress are the most common culprits.

Some Associated Symptoms

Pain or stiffness in the neck, upper back, or shoulders
Headaches, especially originating from the base of the skull
Limited range of motion, making it difficult to turn your head or look up and down
Muscle spasms or a feeling of tightness in the neck muscles
Numbness or tingling sensations that radiate into the arms or hands

Causes and Symptoms

Neck pain can be triggered by many factors, including:

Poor Posture: Slouching at workstations for extended periods can strain the muscles and ligaments in the neck.
Muscle Strain: Overuse, sudden movements, or holding the neck in an abnormal position during activities such as lifting heavy objects or exercising can strain the neck muscles.
Whiplash: A sudden forceful neck movement, commonly caused by a car accident, can result in pain and stiffness.
Herniated or Bulging Discs: These conditions occur when the soft, cushion-like discs between the vertebrae in the neck become damaged, causing pain and possibly radiating symptoms.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints in the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.

4 Prevention and Self-Care Tips

Prevention is key in reducing the likelihood of developing neck pain. Here are some practical and effective steps you can take:
1. Maintain Proper Posture: Be mindful of your posture, especially when sitting or standing for long periods. Keep your head aligned with your spine, and invest in an ergonomic chair and workstation setup.

2. Take Frequent Breaks: Take regular breaks to stretch and move around if you have a sedentary job. This helps prevent stiffness and muscle tension.

3. Exercise Regularly: Engage in exercises that strengthen and stretch the neck and shoulder muscles, such as neck rotations, shoulder rolls, and gentle stretches.

4. Adjust Your Sleeping Position: Slumber on a supportive pillow and try different sleeping positions to find the one that keeps your neck in a neutral position and reduces strain.

What Are Some Treatment Options?

If you experience neck pain, we offer several options for addressing your discomfort:

Chiropractic Care: Our doctors use various adjusting techniques to help alleviate neck discomfort.

Acupuncture: As a form of Traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture may help ease your pain.

Cold Laser Therapy: This modality uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissue and can accelerate the healing process and alleviate discomfort.

Physiotherapy: To help improve posture, strengthen muscles, and increase flexibility in the neck, our physiotherapists can provide exercises and techniques.

Massage Therapy: Our skilled massage therapists can use various techniques to relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation.

Rest and Heat/Cold Therapy: Incorporate rest periods and apply heat or cold packs to the affected area to reduce inflammation and soothe the muscles.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Although we always recommend a natural approach first, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help ease pain and reduce inflammation.

Injections and Medications: In some cases, corticosteroid injections or muscle relaxants may be recommended to provide temporary relief.

Get Out of Pain and Reclaim Your Life

You don’t have to put up with discomfort. Our skilled team is here to help relieve your discomfort so you can enjoy your favorite activities. Contact KIROMEDICA Health Centre today to book an appointment at our North York or Scarborough location.
CONTACT US »

divider