Neck pain can be very problematic. More so than many other types of pain, it can interfere with daily activities.

Neck pain can manifest itself in several ways

• Stiffness; difficulty in turning the head

• Pain that starts in the neck and moves down the shoulders, arms, or fingers

• Pronounced pain in a specific area

• General soreness

The neck, or cervical spine, is comprised nerves. As a result, nerve damage can result in more serious problems.

• Trouble with grip strength and lifting ordinary objects

• Difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels

• Dizziness

• Trouble walking, standing, or sitting

In some cases these symptoms can be signs of more serious medical problems.  

What Can I Do?

We live in the Google age. Whenever experiencing pain or discomfort it is easy to search the internet for quick fixes and do-it-yourself remedies. For certain types of pain or sickness these can be quite helpful. However, self-adjustment as a solution to neck pain can be dangerous. In short, don’t do it. Chiropractors are trained professionals, and even when a chiropractor experiences neck pain they do not use self-adjustment to fix the problem. There are a few steps you can take to help alleviate neck pain.

• Ice the sore area. Be careful not to apply ice for too long

• After applying ice, use a heating pad or take a hot shower

• Do not lift heavy objects

• Do not engage in physical activities or sports that put strain on the neck   

• Use good posture

• Gently massage the sore area

• Take pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen

• Remember pain relievers are not a solution

• If the pain persists, visit a chiropractor