Understanding Neck Pain: Common Types, Causes and Treatment
It's estimated that up to 70% of people will experience neck pain at some point in their lives. This pain can range from mild to severe, and it is important to understand the potential causes and treatments. At Lane Family Chiropractic in Delta, CO, we help our patients every day to identify the source and severity of their neck pain and create a tailored plan for relief. If you're concerned about neck pain or experiencing it, we are here to help you understand your condition and develop an optimal treatment plan.
Common Types of Neck Pain
Neck pain can be caused by various conditions, including muscle strain, whiplash, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and even arthritis. To accurately diagnose the type of neck pain you're experiencing, it is important to understand its characteristics. Common types of neck pain include:
- Cervicalgia: Cervicalgia is a type of neck pain with no known source. It is generally described as a dull ache or stiffness in the back of the neck and can be caused by muscle strain, tension headaches and poor posture.
- Radiculopathy: Radiculopathy is nerve root irritation caused by a herniated disc or compressed vertebrae. It is often accompanied by numbness and tingling in the shoulder, arm, or hand.
- Stenosis: Stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that can occur as we age due to wear and tear on the spine. This condition can cause pressure on the nerve roots resulting in pain, tingling and weakness in the neck, arms and/or legs.
Muscle spasms: Muscle spasms are sudden, involuntary contractions that can cause intense neck pain. They often occur due to an underlying injury or from muscle tension caused by stress.
Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain causes results from several factors, including poor posture, physical activity, stress and injury. Some additional neck pain causes can include:
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in adults. It occurs when cartilage wears away from the joints and can cause pain and stiffness in the neck as well as other joints in the body.
- Repetitive strain injury: Repetitive strain injuries occur when muscles are overused from activities such as typing or lifting heavy objects. This can cause significant pain and tenderness in the neck, shoulders and upper back.
- Poor posture: Sitting for long periods with poor posture can lead to tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, leading to pain.
Treatment Options for Neck Pain
The neck pain treatments your doctor recommends will depend on the type and severity of your condition. Some common treatments can include:
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy is often used to strengthen neck muscles and increase range of motion. Exercise, stretching and heat/cold therapy are all commonly used for relief.
- Medication: Over-the-counter or prescription medications are other neck pain treatments available. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can be used to reduce pain and swelling.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary for relief. This is often the case with herniated discs or spinal stenosis, where pressure on the nerve roots needs to be alleviated.
- Chiropractic Care: Gentle techniques and stretching performed by our experienced team can relieve neck pain without the need for medications.
Contact Our Chiropractor in Delta, CO, for Neck Pain Relief
At Lane Family Chiropractic, we understand the importance of finding relief from neck pain. Our team of chiropractors is here to help you identify the cause and severity of your pain and create a tailored treatment plan to bring you back to optimal health. Contact us today at 970-874-9724 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
