Neck Pain: Causes and Complications
At some point, neck pain may become a part of your daily life, arising from various underlying causes. If you find yourself struggling with neck pain and need a chiropractor in Fort Wayne to determine the cause and provide effective treatment, schedule an appointment with True Wellness Chiropractic. Our experienced team is here to help diagnose and treat your condition, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
Conditions
Neck pain is a prevalent issue with numerous potential causes. Understanding these causes is essential for effective treatment. Common conditions leading to neck pain include:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Pinched nerves
- Poor posture
- Whiplash
Degenerative Disc Disease
Despite its name, degenerative disc disease is more accurately described as a condition rather than a disease. The discs in your spine act as shock absorbers for the spinal bones, allowing them to remain flexible and supporting your overall mobility. When a disc becomes damaged or deteriorates, it often cannot repair itself due to a lack of adequate blood supply.
This condition can result from the natural aging process, where discs lose hydration and elasticity, causing pain and impairing normal movement. Activities such as playing sports or lifting heavy objects may also contribute to disc damage. If you've suffered an injury, symptoms such as soreness, instability, and swelling can result, often leading to persistent lower back pain.
Pinched Nerves
Pinched nerves occur when excessive pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding structures, such as herniated discs, tendons, muscles, or bones. This pressure can result in not only localized pain but also additional symptoms like weakness, tingling sensations, and numbness in the affected area. Identifying and addressing the source of this pressure is crucial for alleviating these symptoms.
Poor Posture
In today’s work environment, many people spend prolonged periods sitting, which can lead to poor posture. Poor posture disrupts the spine's natural alignment, causing uneven distribution of weight and placing additional pressure on the discs, joints, and muscles. Over time, this misalignment can lead to significant discomfort and pain.
Whiplash
Whiplash is an injury that occurs when the neck is subjected to a sudden, forceful movement, often resulting from a car accident or similar trauma. This rapid motion overstretches the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the neck, causing pain and stiffness. Prompt treatment is essential to manage symptoms and prevent long-term complications.
Neck Pain Treatment
Fortunately, several non-invasive treatments can help address neck pain once the underlying cause has been identified. Common treatment options include:
- Chiropractic Adjustments
- Acupuncture
- Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)
- Massage
- Physical Therapy
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
Contact Our Chiropractors in Fort Wayne, IN
If you’re seeking effective neck pain treatment from a chiropractor near you in Fort Wayne, look no further than True Wellness Chiropractic. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. Schedule an appointment today, and let us assist you in finding relief and improving your quality of life.