Neck and shoulder pain are becoming more common with each passing year. The average person can expect to experience both neck and shoulder pain at some point during their life. Neck and shoulder pain can cause a restricted range of motion, negatively affecting a person’s quality of life.
Causes
Some common neck and shoulder pain causes include soft tissue injuries, whiplash, rotator cuff tear, and cervical spondylitis. In some cases, neck and shoulder pain can be a symptom of a severe underlying issue such as neck or head cancer. Pain on one side of the neck could be due to strains or sprains on that side.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help?
People experiencing neck and shoulder pain often turn to chiropractic care for help. Chiropractors take a holistic approach to pain management. They treat the causes of musculoskeletal disorders, not just the symptoms.
A Santa Rosa chiropractor for neck pain will perform several physical tests and ask questions to ensure that they successfully diagnose the cause of your pain. They may also order tests such as X-rays, CT & MRI scans, and blood tests.
Once the professional gets to the root cause of your problem, they will design a treatment plan. Your chiropractor will use hands-on spinal manipulations and other alternative treatments to align your musculoskeletal structure. Proper alignment of the musculoskeletal structure will allow the body to heal properly.
Tips to Treat Neck and Shoulder Pain at Home
You can treat mild neck and shoulder pain at home using home remedies. Here are some home remedies for neck and shoulder pain that work.
➢ Take a break from sports or other physical activities that can aggravate your condition.
➢ Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
➢ Use hot and cold therapy. Use a heating pad or warm compress to apply heat, then after some time, apply an ice pack on the affected area.
➢ Gently massage the affected area.
➢ Use a pain-relieving shoulder wrap.
➢ Gently massage your neck and shoulders.
Neck and Shoulder Pain Exercises
To help relieve pain, try neck and shoulder stretches. Take care not to overexert yourself. If your pain increases with exercise, stop immediately and consult your doctor.
Tips to Prevent Neck and Shoulder Pain
➢ Practice good posture.
➢ Follow a stretching routine that relaxes your back, shoulders, and neck.
➢ If you work a sedentary job, take frequent breaks. Get up every 30-60 minutes and walk around.
➢ Do not let repetitive activities put stress on your neck and shoulders. If they are unavoidable, make small changes to minimize stress. For example, if you are on the phone a lot, use a headset instead of using your shoulders and neck to support the phone. Consider using an ergonomic table and chair.
Are you looking for a chiropractor for neck and shoulder pain in Santa Rosa? Look no further than Toth Chiropractic. Dr. Toth understands the importance of empathy in healthcare. To schedule a consultation , call (707) 526-1390.