Common Complaints > Neck pain

Nowadays, we spend a great deal of time sitting, or working at computers, or performing repetitive tasks. This often causes postural problems and muscle tension in the neck, which may give rise to headache, migraine or other neck pain. In addition, muscle tension caused by such stress can put extra pressure on the joints of the neck which can irritate the spinal nerves. This can sometimes lead to pain known as "referred" pain, in other parts of the body or numbness or "pins and needles" in your shoulders, arms and hands. If neck pain has not improved progressively after several days, a visit to your Chiropractor is advisable.

The neck, shoulder and arm areas are often subject to direct injury. An example of this is the case of whiplash to the neck. The neck is very vulnerable to injury as it supports the weight of the head. The neck joints, muscles and ligaments can become damaged by a blow or fall to the head or strained by poor posture.

Whiplash injuries occur when a person's spine, usually their neck, is suddenly thrown very quickly in one direction and then in the opposite direction, causing injury to joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons and occasionally spinal structures.

Whiplash is one of the most common consequences of car accidents, it is estimated that 15-30% of car occupants will suffer neck pain. Studies show that a large percentage of whiplash sufferers may continue to suffer pain and some amount of disability for years after the accident.

Whiplash symptoms may start as neck soreness or stiffness, perhaps accompanied by a headache immediately or within 48 hours of the accident. Along with these symptoms there may be pain and/or numbness, tingling or a pins & needles sensation between the shoulder blades, arm and hand.

Many whiplash sufferers live in pain for years after the injury, some times forced to live on pain killers, muscle relaxants and various therapies including surgery. As the spinal damage may have occurred it is essential to seek a Chiropractor to help correct the misalignment.

In many cases a visit to the Chiropractor may give great relief safely, quickly and without drugs or surgery.

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