The cervical spine, better known as the neck, starts at the base of the skull; a neck contains seven vertebrae. The neck supports the head which typically weighs 11 or 12 pounds. The neck allows the head to move in almost every direction.
Due to the inherent flexibility of the neck is quite susceptible to injury which results in considerable neck pain in Chicago. Accidents are a major cause of neck injury however sitting in one position for an extended period of time; aging and every day “wear and tear” affect the cervical biometrics.
There are numerous causes of neck pain:
* A sudden movement of the neck and the subsequent rebound is known as “whiplash.” This whipping motion causes injury to the supporting tissues, muscles will tense and contract under these circumstances. The result is pain and stiffness and can also injure the ligaments, disc and nerves in the neck.
* Aging: As one ages there is the possibility of degenerative disorders such as arthritis and degenerative disc disease, both of which can affect the neck.
* Poor posture is a major contributor to neck pain in Chicago. The working environment of many people means they are tied to a computer screen for long periods of time, the muscles tighten, resulting in neck pain and stiffness.
How chiropractic care helps alleviate neck pain:
The chiropractor will perform a physical examination, noting the range of neck motion, curvature and alignment. A neck adjustment is a chiropractic procedure; precise pressure is applied by hand to specific areas of the neck. A neck adjustment improves mobility and restores the expected range of motion. Patients will find that their ability to turn their head to the far right and left a well as tilt their head is greatly enhanced and the associated pain and stiffness is greatly reduced.
There are numerous reasons why an individual gets neck pain in Chicago; accidents, aging and work related poor posture are common causes. If you suffer neck pain, you are welcome to visit any of the four Chicago Chiropractic & Sports Injury Centers.
