When you have tooth pain, you don’t instantly make an appointment with an oncologist or an ear, nose, throat doctor. You turn to the trained professional who knows how to handle this specific situation: a dentist. Similarly, if you have neck pain, you shouldn’t necessarily visit an orthopedic surgeon right away. A chiropractor is much better suited to help you get the relief you need and deserve. How exactly does a chiropractor do it? Keep reading to find out!
Proper Diagnosis of the Root Cause
Until you know and address the reason for your pain, you can only mask the symptoms. Through physical examination and diagnostic tests like X-rays or MRIs, your chiropractor can identify why your neck hurts in the first place and, therefore, determine the best approach to relieve it.
Different causes of your neck pain may require different treatments. For instance, a neck injury from a car accident may not involve the same therapies as chronic neck pain from hours of bad posture at work. When you work with a professional like a chiropractor, you can get the to bottom of the issue and know how to overcome it.
Non-Invasive Treatment
Unlike some other medical doctors who may push surgery for certain issues, chiropractors specialize in non-invasive treatments. Often, chiropractors can help patients avoid these more intense procedures through simpler, more natural methods, including the following.
Spinal Adjustment or Manual Manipulation
Neck pain can stem from misalignment in the vertebrae, particularly those near the top of the spine. Easing them back into their ideal positions, pressure is no longer placed on these sensitive nerves, alleviating pain. Likewise, manual manipulation can gently force joints where they are supposed to be, allowing for better circulation, less inflammation, and calmer nerves.
Massage or Physical Therapy
In other situations, neck pain comes as a result of muscle strain or fatigue. Physical and massage therapy, although different, can loosen and strengthen these muscles. With eased tension, these muscles can relax, reduce your discomfort, and increase your range of motion.
Instructions for At-Home Exercises and Stretches
In addition to in-clinic care, your chiropractor can set you up for continuing success at home by teaching you various exercises and stretches to do every day. In addition, they can give you tips for maintaining healthy posture. Although you’ll still likely need to continue care to manage challenges as they come up in life, when you can keep your muscles loose and active, your chances of reinjury go down.
Instead of turning to the wrong resource for help with neck pain, make sure you work with a chiropractor first. They can offer relief without going too far. Through these steps, you can control neck pain and regain your quality of life.
About the Author
Dr. Zinovy Chukhman or Dr. Z has countless patients who have found a more natural way toward neck, back, and other joint and nerve health through his care. He is completely certified with the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners and utilizes many techniques in his practice like Graston, flexion-distraction, Gonstead, and Thompson. He currently practices at AlignRight Chiropractic in Richardson, TX. You can reach out to him and schedule an appointment by calling the office at 972-907-2800 or clicking here.
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