Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

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Follow along with Airrosti’s Breanne Kelley, DC, as she explains the common causes of neck pain, as well as identifying the signs and symptoms. Listen as she describes traditional healthcare methods for neck pain, and how Airrosti approaches treatment differently. Discover how Airrosti can nix your neck pain in no time, either in-clinic or through Airrosti Remote Recovery!

WHAT IS NECK PAIN?

Your neck is made up of many components, such as ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Because the neck has an extensive range of motion, it is susceptible to many injuries and painful conditions. In addition, the neck’s ability to function properly is directly tied to many other muscle groups, like the shoulder, back, and chest.

Additionally, if neck pain is left untreated, it can become chronic. Chronic neck pain can present itself as pain, stiffness, and soreness in the neck, perhaps with decreased mobility, that lasts more than several weeks.

Man sitting at desk while holding his neck in pain

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS?

One of the most common causes of neck pain is injury to the soft tissues, including the neck muscles, tendons, and ligaments within these structures. Individuals who spend most of their day sitting at work, or doing sedentary activities, have a high-risk factor for developing this condition. The risk is increased especially high for those who sit in poor posture, with the head in a flexed forward position.

In addition to muscle strains and sprains, several other common neck pain causes, such as herniated discs, Osteoarthritis (developing from the wear and tear of cartilage and bones), as well as rheumatoid arthritis. In some cases, this condition may also be caused by an injury to the cervical spine, cervical disc degeneration disease, or other injuries that put pressure on the nerve roots.

Symptoms may include:

  • Pain that’s often worsened by holding your head in one place for long period (such as when driving or working at a computer)
  • Muscle tightness and spasms
  • Decreased ability to move your head
  • General soreness
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness
  • Tension headaches

Recurring neck pain can not only affect other parts of your body, but other aspects of your life. It can influence your sleeping habits, your ability to work, and even your mental wellbeing. People with severe chronic pain are more likely to have other areas of their life affected, such as social activities, and may spend excessive amounts of money seeking various treatments.

Woman laying on table receiving physical therapy treatment

WHAT ARE THE treatment options for neck pain?

Traditional neck pain treatment may include over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), massages, or some form of physical therapy. A physical therapist might use several methods to treat neck pain such as heat, ice, or braces.

More severe cases may require steroid injections. If worse comes to worst, surgery may be recommended by your doctor to correct severe neck pain or injuries, especially those that may be spine related.

HOW CAN AIRROSTI HELP?

Chronic neck pain can be debilitating and hinder your quality of life. Airrosti providers are trained to evaluate and identify the cause of your pain. They also create a customized treatment plan to help you start on the road to neck pain relief.

If you have found yourself suffering from unresolved neck pain, call Airrosti at (800) 404-6050 to learn how we can resolve your pain or schedule your appointment now!

Woman relaxing on couch after receiving physical therapy treatment

Reviewed by Casey Crisp, Doctor of Chiropractic

Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. If you experience any numbness, tingling or reproduction of your symptoms, please contact your doctor.

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