How to Manage Neck Pain
By Sara Butler
The neck does a lot more work than people may think about. It supports the head and turns it every which way multiple times a day so people can experience their world and move through their day easily. When something is wrong with the neck, it’s noticeable. If you’re experiencing neck pain, here are some ways you can make it better until you can get to the chiropractors at The Joint.
Risk Factors for Neck Pain
You may not realize it, but habits in your everyday life may be increasing your odds of experiencing neck problems, discomfort, and pain. The risk factors for neck pain include:
- Smoking
- Repetitive tasks or work
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Car accidents
- Sports injury
- Poor posture
The chiropractors at The Joint will discuss lifestyle factors with you in order to identify anything that may be contributing to your neck pain or discomfort.
What You Can Do
When neck pain is experienced, there are a few things you can try to make it better before you get to the chiropractor's office. You may be able to reduce pain and increase function by:
- Movement – Don’t sit or stand in one position for too long. Poor posture and too much sitting are some of the biggest reasons for neck pain, so get up and move frequently throughout the day.
- Ergonomics – If you work at a desk, look at your setup. Is everything lined up right and within easy reaching distance? Do you have a good chair to sit in that supports your back and supports proper posture?
- Relax – Tension and stress often get held in the shoulders and neck. This can make pain or discomfort worse, so try to relax until you can get in to have your neck examined. Relaxation techniques are important, as is regular stretching.
How the Chiropractor Can Help
Neck pain has been researched extensively, which means your chiropractor has some great techniques available to them to treat it. They will examine your neck to see if any joint dysfunction or restrictions are present in the bones of the neck and upper back that may be contributing to your problem, then work on a treatment plan to resolve your neck pain issues.
Don’t let neck pain rule your life. If you’re experiencing it, then get in to the chiropractor at The Joint today to begin making it better!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Columbus, Ohio.