Neck Pain
Neck pain (or cervicalgia) is a common problem, with two-thirds of the population having neck pain at some point in their lives. It is increasing in both intensity, frequency, and severity of episodes. As people are increasingly sedentary, live fast-paced and hectic lives, they place more stress and strain on the upper back and neck regions of their spines.
Neck pain, although felt in the neck, can be caused by numerous other spinal issues. Neck pain may arise due to muscular tightness in both the neck and upper back. Joint disruption in the neck creates pain, as does joint disruption in the upper back.
The head is supported by the lower neck and upper back, and it is these areas that commonly cause neck pain. The top three joints in the neck allow for the most movement of your neck and head. The lower joints in the neck and those of the upper back create a supportive structure for your head to rest on. If this support system is adversely affected, then the muscles in the area will tighten, leading to neck pain. Neck pain may also arise from many other physical and emotional health issues.
Neck Pain Causes
Reasons for neck pain can be complex. Major and severe causes of neck pain include:
Neck Pain Treatment
Neck pain can be treated by numerous physical therapy and chiropractic techniques. They range in complexity depending on the severity and underlying causes of the pain. Neck pain can also be eased via many self-help techniques such as stretching and strength-building exercises. Non-traditional methods such as acupressure, reflexology, and therapeutic massage are commonly used as well.
Neck pain (or cervicalgia) is a common problem, with two-thirds of the population having neck pain at some point in their lives. It is increasing in both intensity, frequency, and severity of episodes. As people are increasingly sedentary, live fast-paced and hectic lives, they place more stress and strain on the upper back and neck regions of their spines.
Neck pain, although felt in the neck, can be caused by numerous other spinal issues. Neck pain may arise due to muscular tightness in both the neck and upper back. Joint disruption in the neck creates pain, as does joint disruption in the upper back.
The head is supported by the lower neck and upper back, and it is these areas that commonly cause neck pain. The top three joints in the neck allow for the most movement of your neck and head. The lower joints in the neck and those of the upper back create a supportive structure for your head to rest on. If this support system is adversely affected, then the muscles in the area will tighten, leading to neck pain. Neck pain may also arise from many other physical and emotional health issues.
Neck Pain Causes
Reasons for neck pain can be complex. Major and severe causes of neck pain include:
- Spondylosis - degenerative arthritis and osteophytes
- Spinal stenosis – a narrowing of the spinal canal
- Spinal disc herniation – protruding or bulging discs, or if severe prolapse
- Severe degeneration – usually as a result of past injuries or whiplash accidents
- Stress – physical and emotional stresses
- Prolonged postures – many people fall asleep on sofas and chairs and wake with sore necks
- Minor injuries and falls – car accidents, sporting events and day to day minor injuries
- Referred pain – mostly from upper back problems
- Over-use – muscular strain is one of the most common causes
Neck Pain Treatment
Neck pain can be treated by numerous physical therapy and chiropractic techniques. They range in complexity depending on the severity and underlying causes of the pain. Neck pain can also be eased via many self-help techniques such as stretching and strength-building exercises. Non-traditional methods such as acupressure, reflexology, and therapeutic massage are commonly used as well.
