You might not think about it during the day, but your neck is almost constantly at work. The Bones, muscles and tendons in this part of the body perform critical functions. When an injury, illness or other condition affects these joints, you could suffer extreme pain. This discomfort can inhibit routine activities and impact the quality of your daily life. Drugs and surgery don’t have to be the only way to combat neck pain, as a neck pain doctor in Frederick, MD, like from Pain & Spine Specialists of Maryland, LLC, can explain to you. Learn about different ways to address these issues.
Chiropractic Adjustments
When you start experiencing neck pain, you should call a chiropractor near you. Chiropractors focus on relieving joint pain and various musculoskeletal conditions. The chiropractor can diagnose, treat and prevent health concerns in the back, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, hands and feet. The most common method that chiropractors use to reduce and eliminate discomfort, tension and irritation in the neck is with an adjustment. In this procedure, the doctor places his or her hands on the patient’s back. Using sudden, controlled force, the chiropractor manipulates the spine, aligning it properly with the other joints in the body. In the neck, this can provide more effective mobility, flexibility and range of motion. Adjustment therapy may occur a handful of times before the patient sees results. Other patients have ongoing care.
Stretching
Sometimes, finding neck pain relief won’t require you to leave your home. There are some simple, quick remedies that can soothe your pain and strengthen your neck. You can stretch your neck by rolling your shoulders back and forth or squeezing your shoulders together. Turning your head slowly from side to side can have a similar effect. You can do these stretches while sitting in your desk at work or while standing up.
Heat and Ice
Another thing to try at home to get rid of neck pain is to apply a heat or ice pack to the area. Alternate between the two, keeping a pack on the ailing spot for about 20 minutes at a time. Repeat this three or four times.
Change the Way You Sleep
A bad neck could depend on the position in which you sleep. Sleeping on your stomach can put a strain on the neck, so try shifting to your back or side. A neck pillow can also help you manage your neck pain.
Follow these guidelines if your neck is hurting. You don’t need to rush to the doctor’s office or worry about surgery.