Common Questions About Neck Pain
Now that we have jumped right into May, our topic shifts to neck pain. It’s a frequent reason we see patients – and it has several commonly asked questions. We’ll dive into the most popular ones below:
- What causes neck pain? Neck pain is a very common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor posture, muscle tension, injuries, arthritis, and sleeping positions. One of the most common causes of neck pain in recent times is texting neck, which is caused by looking down at your phone for extended periods.
- What are the symptoms of neck pain? The symptoms of neck pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, some common symptoms include stiffness, achiness, sharp pain, headaches, and difficulty moving the neck. You may also experience numbness or tingling in your neck, shoulders, or arms.
- How can I treat neck pain? There are a number of things you can do to treat neck pain at home, such as applying heat or ice, taking over-the-counter pain medication, and getting plenty of rest. You may also find relief from gentle stretching exercises or massage. If your neck pain is severe or does not improve with home treatment, it is important to see a doctor, which could include a visit to the chiropractor.
- When should I see a doctor for neck pain? You should see a doctor for neck pain if it is severe, does not improve with home treatment, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or fever. You should also see a doctor if your neck pain is caused by an injury.
If you are experiencing neck pain, it is important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and get appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the pain from worsening and can help you get back to your normal activities as soon as possible.
If you’re uncertain and would like a chiropractic assessment, Dr. Desiree Van Bogart at Desired Health Chiropractic is here to help answer your questions!