Neck pain is a very common complaint among chiropractic patients. In most cases, the neck pain isn't caused by a serious issue. Neck pain can be caused by poor posture due to leaning towards your computer or having an awkward night of sleep. However, sometimes neck pain can be a sign of a more serious issue. Instead of just relying on over the counter pain medications, it is important for you to visit your Plano chiropractor to get the relief you desire from your chronic neck pain.

What Causes Neck Pain

The cervical spine connects your brain stem to your spinal cord. Your neck is rich in blood vessels and other soft tissues, including many ligaments and tendons. Because the neck is so complex, there are many different issues that can cause neck pain. Some conditions that are commonly associated with neck pain are a herniated disc, pinched nerve, degenerative disc disease, neck strain or an injury such as whiplash. Neck pain can also be caused by common infections such as a viral infection of the throat, leading to lymph gland swelling and neck pain.

Motor vehicle accidents, injury from contact sports and spending excessive time looking at the computer can increase your risk for developing neck pains. To prevent developing neck pain from these activities, you can engage in neck strengthening exercises or neck bracing.

To help you avoid neck pain, it is also important for you to be aware of the activities that you perform on a daily basis. Repeated lifting of heavy items or sleeping in an awkward position can often be responsible for neck pain. This pain will generally subside with the proper care, including rest, heat, ice or rehabilitation with your Plano chiropractor.

Visit Your Chiropractor For Pain Relief

If you are experiencing chronic or especially intense neck pain, you should not hesitate to schedule an appointment with your chiropractor in Plano to try to find some relief. He or she will want to know the intensity and duration of your pain so be prepared to be honest and let your doctor know the details of your pain.

Spinal manipulation and adjustments can be a crucial part of relieving your neck pain. This is a drug-free therapy that involves your chiropractor using his or her hands to treat subluxations, which occur when your vertebrae move out of position, creating irritation and pressure near your spinal nerves. After the treatment is over, your chiropractor will recommend that you ice your neck to prevent further inflammation. Once you have gotten your neck pain under control, your doctor may also recommend diet, exercise or lifestyle changes to strengthen your neck muscles and improve your range of motion.

To learn more about how to treat and prevent neck pain or to schedule an appointment, contact your chiropractor in Plano, TX today.