Your neck plays a huge role in your ability to function normally each day. When your neck is stiff, sore or injured, you may find it difficult or even impossible to go to work, school or simply about your normal routine. You can act in your own best interests and know when to seek medical help if necessary by learning what neck pain is and what contributes to this common health complaint.
What is Neck Pain?
Neck pain is, as the name implies, pain or discomfort that occurs in the neck. It is one of the most common complaints that doctors treat in patients today. It is also caused by a host of factors that sometimes warrant immediate medical attention.
Most cases of neck pain in patients are minor and respond well to minimally or non-invasive treatment. Other cases are serious and warrant extensive medical care. It is important that you know the symptoms of this type of pain and at what point you should seek medical attention.
Symptoms of Neck Pain
The condition can manifest in a host of symptoms that can interrupt your daily life and make living your normal routine difficult or impossible. Some of the most common symptoms of minor pain include:
• Pain that is made worse by turning your head
• Pain that is made worse by keeping your head still for prolonged periods of time
• Tightness or muscle spasms
• Headache
You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience significant symptoms such as the following:
• Severe pain
• Pain that persists for longer than two days
• Pain that spreads to your arms or legs
• Pain that is accompanied by numbness, headache, weakness, or tingling
Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common contributors to neck pain are:
• Muscle strain
• Worn out joints
• Compression of the nerves in your neck or spine
• Injuries like whiplash
• Diseases like arthritis, cancer, or meningitis
Depending on the cause of your pain, it can be treated with any number of procedures or medications. You might be prescribed medicines like pain relievers or muscle relaxers if your pain results from an injury or strain.
You can also opt to treat your neck pain with chiropractic measures at our office. Common chiropractic treatments for this type of pain include massage therapy and correctional exercises.
Neck pain can bring your everyday life to a halt and make it difficult to go to work or school as normal. You can get help and know how your neck pain will be treated by learning what causes it and in what manner our specialist can remedy it today at La Grange Chiropractic, located in La Grange. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment and learn more.