Question
Hello!

I have had chronic neck pain that can develop into a headache for some months now. I assumed this was because I usually lie on my stomach when reading (I am writing my thesis now, so I need to do that quite a lot) and when I started reading while seated the neck pain subsided. I also started stretching my neck regularly and having it rubbed by my spouse.

However, recently (two days now), while my neck has stopped hurting, I have been experiencing a feeling of significant pressure in my lower skull and also temples (less severely). I am worried and cannot concentrate, even though I really need to - my thesis is due in a few days.

The problem is, I might not be able to get to a doctor for a week or so, except if I go to a hospital. Do I need to seek urgent medical attention or can it wait for a week (perhaps less)? What can I do to alleviate the pressure so I can work for three more days?

Please help me!
Eliza

Answer
Hi Eliza,

I can only advise you to avoid postural positions that aggravate your neck. Only a Chiropractor can properly treat these problems, seeing one shouldn't take more than a few hours. Normally you can get same day appointments and get it corrected on the spot. There are no home remedies to re-align the spine, unfortunately. I wish I could be more helpful but this is a hands on problem that has an easy fix. Just get to your local D.C. as soon as you can.

Hope this helps,
Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com