Neck Pain & Its Treatment

Neck pain (or cervicalgia) is a common problem, with two-thirds of the population having neck pain at some point in their lives. Neck pain, although felt in the neck, can be caused by numerous other spinal problems. Neck pain may arise due to muscular tightness in both the neck and upper back, or pinching of the nerves emanating from the cervical vertebrae. Joint disruption in the neck creates pain, as does joint disruption in the upper back. The head is supported by the lower neck and upper back, and it is these areas that commonly cause neck pain. The top three joints in the neck allow for most movement of your neck and head. The lower joints in the neck and those of the upper back create a supportive structure for your head to sit on. If this support system is affected adversely, then the muscles in the area will tighten, leading to neck pain.

Neck pain may also arise from many other physical and emotional health problems.

Treatment of neck pain depends on the cause. For the vast majority of people, neck pain can be treated conservatively.

Our doctors see conditions such as strained muscles, joint injuries, fracture, headaches, etc. in his practice and many other complaints associated with the neck. Chiropractors are highly educated in neurological, orthopedic, and chiropractic diagnosis of cervical spinal conditions. His first task is to differentiate those conditions that are outside of what is called the 'conservative scope of practice'.

Chiropractors are conservative care doctors; that is, their scope of practice does not include the use of drugs or surgery. If our doctors diagnose a condition outside of this conservative scope, such as a neck fracture or an indication of an organic disease, the patient is referred to the appropriate medical physician.

A patient may have a neck pain appropriately treated with conservative care, but also present with symptoms such as fever or throat pain that demands a medical referral. Patients presenting with significant neurological signs and symptoms are referred to a medical specialist for a second-opinion prior to initiating conservative care.

Chiropractic has been proven to be very helpful in the treatment of certain conditions causing neck pain.

Our doctors use diagnostic indicators to differentiate types of neck problems. How these indicators are used and what occurs during a cervical adjustment will help to increase awareness of the indications and limitations of chiropractic care for neck conditions.

Chiropractic offers a unique and valuable mechanical approach to a wide range of cervical problems. Dr. Osborne does not 'twist' the neck or perform painful maneuvers. Manipulation or adjusting as performed by him is a precise and gentle therapy whose aim is to return motion to restricted spinal joints and to improve the overall mechanics of the spine.

If you, or someone you know is experiencing neck pain, we invite you to contact Salama Chiropractic at 336-274-3500 to schedule a free consultation with one of our doctors.

© 2010 Salama Chiropractic
Oak Ridge, North Carolina (NC) Chiropractors - Greensboro & Winston Salem.