Neck Pain Treatment

If you are suffering from neck pain, chiropractic care can help you relieve your pain. Dr. Luke Pinatello of Live Proper Chiropractic has extensive experience diagnosing and treating cervical pain without pharmaceutical drugs or invasive procedures. We use modern cervical manipulation techniques to reduce pain and improve neck mobility.

What Is Neck Pain?

Neck pain is acute or chronic pain affecting the cervical spine or connective tissue. The cervical spine has seven small vertebrae cushioned by intervertebral discs that absorb shocks during movement. It starts at the base of the skull and connects to the thoracic (upper back) spine. The neck spine is constantly under stress from bearing the weight of the head and daily repetitive motion. Physical stress and overuse are a recipe for pain.

What Causes Neck Pain?

As you grow older, you become more prone to degenerative disorders that cause pain. Common disorders include degenerative disc, osteoarthritis, and spinal stenosis. A deteriorated disc may rupture more easily and compress a nerve. Pain also stems from neck injury or misalignment following a fall, blow to the neck, or whiplash from an auto accident. Other causes include improper posture, such as arching the neck forward for a long time, sleeping in an awkward position, and stress on the neck from emotional tension.

Common Symptoms of Neck Pain

Neck pain becomes chronic if it lasts for more than 12 weeks and may be accompanied by these other symptoms:

• Neck stiffness or soreness
• Headaches
• Trouble moving or tilting your head
• Pain radiates to the upper back or arm
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the shoulder or arm (sign of a pinched nerve)

How Neck Pain Is Treated by Our Westerly, RI Chiropractor

Before proceeding with treatment, Dr. Pinatello will perform an extensive evaluation of your symptoms, range of neck motion, and may order other tests. Routine tests include a neck x-ray and neurological exams. Advanced testing includes a CT scan or MRI in some cases. We can formulate a chiropractic care plan based on the results, which may include neck adjustments along with massage therapies and rehabilitative exercise.

Dr. Pinatello performs neck adjustments by applying pressure to the neck joints using his hands. The technique realigns the spine, relieves joint restrictions, and restores the range of motion. Pain, stiffness, and soreness eventually subside, and you should be able to tilt your head without discomfort.

Massage therapies help reduce pain and loosen up stiff muscles. Exercising the neck works by increasing the range of motion and strengthening the muscles.

Call Live Proper Chiropractic Today!

Neck pain sometimes goes away on its own. If it persists or keeps getting worse even with medication therapy, it is probably time to see our chiropractor serving Westerly, RI, and surrounding areas. Call 401-315-2300 to request an appointment.