Neck pain is common and many people have awakened to find they have slept on their neck the wrong way. This type of strain is usually resolved in a few days. Neck pain is typically due to a muscle strain, muscle sprain, or an injury or disorder of the cervical spine.
Strains refer to the pulling of, or tearing of, muscles or tendons attaching to the bones. Sprains, on the other hand, occur when a ligament surrounding a joint is injured. If the cervical spine, which consists of the vertebrae, discs, and joints in the neck, are damaged, chronic pain may be the result. Nerves can become compressed and send erratic pain signals to the neck and down the arms into the hands and fingers.
For mild to moderate pain, there are a few ways to minimize the symptoms. The following lists 3 best ways to relieve neck pain.
Stretching Exercises and Ice Packs
If the pain is due to a sprain or strain from sleeping the wrong way or being hunched over the computer, then stretching exercises may help. The stretches will slowly work to increase range of motion again and relieve stiffness. A chiropractor can show the correct exercises for quicker recovery of neck pain.
Ice packs can typically be used to alleviate pain from sprains or strains and cervical spine injuries. The ice pack can be applied to the area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, two to three times daily. Ice should never be applied directly to the skin so use a layer of clothing or towel to separate the ice pack from the neck.
Massage
A cervical spine injury may be too painful for a massage, however muscle sprains or strains may benefit from the stretching and massaging motions. The massaging motions will reactivate blood flow to the area and promote healing. There are many massage therapy locations in Las Vegas and some chiropractic offices employ massage therapists.
Chiropractic Manipulation
A chiropractor can offer treatment to alleviate pain, elongate the spine, and improve range of motion. Before any treatment is considered, the chiropractor will order x-rays and review all medical history of the patient. The patient will be given an evaluation. The chiropractor will discuss the diagnosis and prognosis and if the patient elects to have treatment performed, then a care plan will be agreed upon.
For neck pain, the treatment may include manipulation, known as adjustment, to realign the cervical spine. When a vertebrae or disc is misaligned, it may push into a nerve root causing pain. Depending on the severity of the injury or spinal condition, it may take a few to several sessions to relieve the pain. However, most patients enjoy a reduction in discomfort right away.
These are just a few of the best ways to relieve neck pain without using medication. Consult your physician or a chiropractor on the type of neck pain you are experiencing and the best treatment option available.