Every Morgantown upper cervical chiropractor couldn’t agree more when patients say having neck pain is a nightmare. But, unfortunately, this statement rings true for millions of people from all corners of the world.
Experiencing neck pain daily is brutal. Although neck pain symptoms vary in severity, people usually have to endure:
- Soreness or tenderness in the affected region
- Piercing sharp pain in the affected part
- Radiating dull ache in the neck area or beyond
- Neck discomfort
- Neck stiffness
- Difficulty in turning the head or neck
Having a sore neck can be an unnecessary obstacle to an already challenging day for workers. Imagine experiencing neck pain and stiffness during your daily commute or on a stressful day at work.
Getting neck pain on your days off is also frustrating and disappointing. Instead of having the day to yourself and your loved ones, you have to handle and focus on taking care of your neck.
Your recovery from neck pain begins by learning the possible reasons for it. And when you determine the root of your neck pain, only then will you have the capability to choose the best course of action to alleviate your hurting neck.
But before we look at five possible reasons for your neck pain, let’s briefly discuss what you should know about the neck.
To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and neck pain, request our by clicking the image below.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Neck Structure
The neck is a complex and fascinating part of the body. Its structural design enables movement and balance support for the head. Not only that, but the neck also protects the brainstem and parts of the spinal cord, which let the rest of our bodies move and feel.
Ironic as it is, the structure of the neck makes it vulnerable to issues like misalignments. If you visit a Morgantown upper cervical chiropractor, you would know that the neck or the cervical spine is consists of seven bones. Aside from these vertebrae, ligaments, discs, muscles, and joints also make up the cervical spine.
5 Typical Causes of Neck Pain
As mentioned above, the cervical spine houses the brainstem and parts of the spinal cord. Therefore, if any issues arise from the neck, say a misalignment, these problems can directly impact the nerve endings in the region and beyond, leading to neck pain.
That being said, here are five usual conditions that bring about neck pain:
#1. Degenerative Disc Disease
Disc degeneration is a common condition that happens with age. By the age of 30, most people will experience recurring back pain and neck issues-- hence, it’s completely normal.
Accelerated disc degeneration at a much younger age, on the other hand, isn’t normal. Degenerative disc disease is usually the reason behind a faster rate of wear and tear in the parts of the neck. To prevent your spinal disc from degeneration and further damage, taking action is necessary. Keep yourself hydrated, avoid smoking, don’t drink alcohol, and maintain proper posture.
#2. Disc Herniation
A herniated disc can be frightfully painful and uncomfortable. This condition occurs when the discs cushioning your neck bones slip out of place. To avoid having herniated discs, make sure that you keep the proper form when exercising or lifting heavy items. Avoid moving your head forcefully and practice extra care to avoid falling accidents.
#3. Headaches and Migraines
Neck pain is a typical companion of headaches and migraines. However, people who consult with a Morgantown upper cervical chiropractor are often surprised to hear of the connection between neck pain and persistent headaches. An excellent explanation for their relationship is the happening during a neck misalignment.
If, for example, a misalignment exists in the topmost vertebrae of the neck, this misalignment will impede the blood flow between the neck and the brain, causing painful neck and headaches. If you are prone to getting migraines and headaches, it’s best to avoid bright, pulsating lights and other common triggers.
#4. Osteoarthritis
When degeneration occurs anywhere in the neck, pain usually follows. Those who suffer from osteoarthritis and any form of bone or joint disorders generally experience neck pain and stiffness.
Doctors would recommend that you relieve pain caused by osteoarthritis with pain and anti-inflammatory medications. In addition, try to avoid foods that cause inflammation if you have this condition.
#5. Whiplash Injury
Neck injuries, in general, often result in neck pain and other related issues. Whiplash is a highly prevalent neck injury that can lead to a hurting neck.
Believe it or not, whiplash injuries do not require getting involved in a freaky car or sports accident. Whiplash injuries can occur when you move your head too vigorously all of a sudden or when you receive a rather forceful blow to your neck or head.
At all costs, try to be careful in whatever you do to avoid injuring your neck. For example, take precautions when you drive or walk in a flight of stairs.
3 Ways to Deal with Neck Pain
If you’re dealing with neck pain, you might find some peace knowing that there are several methods for coping. Today, we’ll look at three different ways to deal with consistent neck pain:
Medication
Pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs are the customary go-to solutions for any physical pain, including neck pains. These OTC pills work fast to alleviate any swelling or pain in the affected region.
However, you’d need utmost care and discipline when taking any medicines for pain. Always consult your doctor when you want to start taking medications.
Lifestyle Adjustments
To live a sustainably neck-pain-free life, you have to commit to some lifestyle changes. Try to follow these rules, and your neck (and overall health) will thank you:
- Avoid foods that cause inflammation
- Avoid smoking and drinking excessively
- Sleep at least eight hours every night
- Keep yourself hydrated
- Maintain the correct posture
- Involve in activities for relaxation
Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care
If you think that your neck pain is due to a neck misalignment, wouldn’t it be fitting that you go directly to the professionals? When dealing with neck problems, who else has more expertise than an upper cervical chiropractor?
If you are looking for a Morgantown upper cervical chiropractor, our Mountain State Wellness doctors can help you out. Drs. Lucas and Amy Watterson are fully capable of assessing and adjusting any neck misalignments.
The upper cervical chiropractic technique they use is exceptionally accurate and highly gentle, yielding positive results. If you want to learn more about the benefits you can reap from upper cervical chiropractic care, call us at (304) 292-7740 to talk to our doctors.
To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Lucas Watterson or Dr. Amy Watterson call our Morgantown office at 304-244-1817 You can also click the button below.
if you are outside of the local area you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.
