How Neck Pain Differs from Back Pain Headaches and neck pain

Many people in Coral Springs suffer from chronic neck pain. Some suffer from chronic lower back pain...and some, unfortunately, suffer from both! And...unfortunately, untreated neck pain can potentially cause far more damage than untreated back pain.

The cervical (neck) spine starts at the base of the brain stem, includes the first seven bones of the spinal column, and runs to right above the shoulder blades. In addition to bones, the cervical spine also contains muscles, ligaments and joints, with nerve endings that respond to problems in your body by conveying the sensation of pain to the brain.

Neck pain often results from performing repetitive movements that can injure these structures. For example, working at a computer holding your head in the same position, sleeping in the wrong position placing a strain on your neck, poor posture, painting a ceiling – all can result in a strain, sprain, inflammation or spasm in the ligaments, muscles, or joints in the neck.

Neck pain can be experienced in two ways – as actual pain, like that caused by a disc problem, or as "pins and needles," numbness or weakness in the arms and legs, difficulty walking, balance problems or neck stiffness. It may originate as a result of a whiplash injury due to an automobile accident, the aging process, stresses of everyday living, job-related repetitive movements, spinal tumor, compression of vertebrae, discs or nerves, or obesity.

Anyone who experiences any of the symptoms described needs to undergo a thorough examination to determine the cause of either type of cervical pain. Our office is capable of performing such an examination; we take a thorough health history and use specific objective diagnostic tools (range-of-motion tests, diagnostic imaging, flexibility tests, etc.) on each patient to determine the cause of the pain and assess our ability to help each patient.

Very often, our patients report relief and a return to health as a result of gentle chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine that often relieve the source of pain. If we find a more serious underlying condition as a result of our examination and testing, we will refer you to another practitioner for a more complete diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Jeffrey Asks some important questions of interest to Coral Springs residents - Chiropractor Coral Springs Dr. Jeffrey Asks...

Do chiropractors prescribe medications for the pain?
No. Chiropractic is a drug-free approach to better health. Instead, we rely on natural methods. We can show you how to use ice to control pain. When properly applied, ice can have an analgesic effect without the unwanted and sometimes dangerous effects of pain medications.
How long will you need chiropractic care?
You'll need chiropractic care as long as you live in Coral Springs and encounter physical, chemical or emotional stress that you cannot adapt to or accommodate. Ready to get started? Call our office today.