The Anatomy of Your Neck
In addition to providing you with the ability to tilt, turn and bend freely, your neck houses many vital anatomical structures. These include:
7 cervical vertebrae (neck bones)
spinal & cranial nerves
spinal cord & brain stem
glands (including your thyroid & parathyroid)
voice box, esophagus & trachea
muscles, ligaments & blood vessels
Your neck’a role is to protect your spinal cord and nerves. Even in a slight injury to your neck may have major effects on other anatomical structures and your overall health.
Why do I have Neck Pain?
Because of the complexity of the neck, it is no wonder that neck pain is common. In a recent Canadian study 2/3 of patients reported experiencing neck pain in their lifetime and 22% complained of neck pain at the time of the study.
many instances of the neck pain start from something minor. For example, you may have slept in an awkward position. this may have irritated the neck joints causing pain.
Neck pain that doesn’t go away quickly or returns regularly is more serious. This can be due to disease, an injury, a congenital malformation, prolonged emotional stress but most frequently from spinal dysfunction.
In most cases, prolonged or re-occurring neck pain is due to joint or nerve irritation. When spinal vertebrae are misaligned or their mobility is altered, sensory or motor nerves can be irritated or even damaged. This can also lead to other symptoms such as headaches, eye problems and arm & hand pain.
How Can Chiropractic Help?
Proper treatment of any condition involves treating the cause and not just the symptoms. Chiropractors are uniquely trained to diagnose the cause of your neck problems.
They will review your complete health history and perform a thorough physical examination to pin-point any physical problems. X-rays may be required. In addition, they will assess your posture, behaviour, physical condition and work & home environments.
Your Chiropractic care may include spinal adjustments, exercises and modifications to your posture, behaviour and lifestyle.
A recent study found that chiropractic care is the most effective treatment for nonspecific neck pain.
Chiropractic care offers safe, effective treatment for neck pain without the use of drugs or surgery.
But my neck doesn’t hurt anymore.
Injury to the neck often causes immediate pain. Although your initial pain may diminish, the underlying mechanical problem may remain.
Many neck problems in our later years can be directly or indirectly related to poor posture or injuries sustained from falls or motor vehicle accident.
Regular Chiropractic check-ups can solve little problems before they become major problems.
