Understanding Different Types of Neck Pain: How Chiropractic Care Can Help.
Neck pain is a common complaint that can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, affecting people of all ages and lifestyles. While occasional neck stiffness or soreness can be a result of normal everyday stresses, persistent or severe neck pain may indicate an underlying issue that requires attention. In this blog post, we'll explore the various types of neck pain and discuss how chiropractic care, such as that provided at Circus Health in Bath, can offer relief and promote long-term neck health.
Types of neck pain:
1. Muscle Strain: One of the most common causes of neck pain is muscle strain, often resulting from poor postures, overuse of neck muscles, or sudden movements. Symptoms often occur acutely or can build up over time, they may include stiffness, tenderness, and limited range of motion.
2. Cervical Herniated Disc: A cervical herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc protrudes through the tough outer layer, putting pressure on nearby nerves. This can cause neck pain, as well as radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms.
3. Cervical Osteoarthritis: Also known as cervical spondylosis, this condition involves the gradual deterioration of the cartilage and bones in the neck. It is not uncommon and is not always a cause of pain, but can lead to neck pain, stiffness, and in some cases the formation of stabilising bone spurs that may compress nerves.
4. Whiplash: Whiplash is a neck injury commonly caused by sudden acceleration or deceleration, such as in car accidents or contact sports. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. Whiplash is often thought to be caused by large forces or speeds, however this isn’t always the case and can occur at speeds as low as 5-10MPH.
5. Cervical Stenosis: Cervical stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves in the neck. This can cause neck pain, as well as numbness, weakness, or coordination problems in the arms and legs.
In some less frequent cases neck pain can be associated with more serious underlying health conditions, this is why it can be important to seek medical support if you are experiencing persistent pain, to help identify the cause and get the correct support for you.
Chiropractic care at Circus Health in Bath offers a non-invasive approach to treating various types of neck pain. Through gentle spinal adjustments and mobilisation techniques, our qualified chiropractor have been able to help restore functional movement, alleviate pressure on nerves, and improve overall musculoskeletal function. Additionally, our chiropractors may incorporate soft tissue therapies, such as massage or stretching exercises, to reduce muscle tension and enhance movement in the neck.
By addressing the underlying cause of neck pain rather than simply masking the symptoms, chiropractic care aims to provide long-lasting relief and prevent future recurrences. Furthermore, our chiropractors can educate patients on proper ergonomics, posture, and lifestyle modifications to support optimal neck health and reduce the risk of future injuries.
If you're experiencing neck pain or discomfort in Bath, consider consulting with our qualified chiropractors at Circus Health to determine the most appropriate course of treatment for your individual needs. With personalised care and tailored treatment plans, we can help you find relief from neck pain and regain your quality of life.