It’s always nice to hear someone say you’ve got a good head on your shoulders. But don’t forget to thank what’s valiantly holding up your head – your neck! Unfortunately, up to 80% of people will experience neck pain during their lifetime. In fact, neck pain is the fourth leading cause of disability in the United States. So, when the structure holding up the most crucial part of your body (your brain!) starts to ache or sustains an injury, it’s vital to address the pain.
For many people suffering from neck pain, seeking medical treatment can be intimidating. Long waits to see your primary care doctor, only to be referred to another specialist to rule out more significant conditions with expensive tests. All the while, you remain in pain and rely on medications to help you cope until the next doctor’s appointment.
Have Neck Pain? Ask for Physical Therapy
What other option do you have? Ask your Primary Care Provider for a referral to physical therapy! Seeking the guidance of a physical therapist can provide you with relief much sooner. Not only that, but you will also save time and money while improving the overall quality of your life. Physical therapy is a safe and effective treatment for neck pain that can help to reduce pain, restore function, and reduce dependency on pain medications.
When treating neck issues, physical therapy is a non-invasive option that can:
- Reduce pain and stiffness
- Improve range of motion, flexibility, and posture
- Strengthen the neck and surrounding areas
- Improve musculoskeletal alignment
- Help you avoid surgery and opioids
Common Neck Injuries
Neck pain can be caused by various factors, including poor posture, muscle strain, injuries such as whiplash, and degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. Neck pain can range from mild and short-lasting to severe and chronic. It can also be accompanied by headaches, stiffness, radicular symptoms, such as tingling and numbness that extend downward into the upper extremities, and difficulty moving the neck and head.
Some common conditions involving pain or injury to the neck include:
- Muscle strains
- Cervical arthritis and stenosis
- Whiplash
- Cervical radiculopathy
- Cervicogenic headaches
If you are experiencing neck pain, it is crucial to seek the advice of a healthcare professional to determine the cause and receive an appropriate treatment plan.
Common Symptoms of Neck Injuries
Neck pain can develop suddenly (from trauma or injury) or from natural wear and tear over time. Some common symptoms associated with neck injuries include:
- Difficulty bending or rotating the neck
- Headaches
- Muscle spasms
- Nerve pain (which may feel like a burning sensation in the neck, shoulder, or arms)
- Numbness or pain in the upper back, shoulders, arms, or hands
- Sharp, localized stabbing or stinging sensations
- Stiffness and soreness
- Weakness in arms or hands
Four Ways Physical Therapy Will Help Your Neck Pain
Following a thorough evaluation, your physical therapist will prescribe a number of services catered specifically to your needs, comfort, and goals. Here’s some of what you can expect during your care:
Diagnosis
A physical therapist will first conduct an in-depth evaluation of your medical history, current symptoms, and lifestyle to pinpoint what’s causing your pain. Once your physical therapist determines the root cause of your pain, they’ll tailor your treatment program to address this issue.
Hands-on Care
Physical therapists will use hands-on care to address muscle tension, tissue inflammation, and joint mobility restrictions to help you find relief. These techniques help you move more naturally by restoring mobility to joints and muscles.
Stretching & Strength Training
Based on your specific lifestyle, level of activity, and injury, your physical therapist will provide tailored stretches and exercises to improve the strength of your muscles in and around your neck and shoulder region. Improving flexibility and strength will allow you to maintain better posture, which will reduce stress on the cervical spine.
Education
Understanding your pain is a crucial component of your recovery plan. Your physical therapist will ensure you’re correctly participating in the exercises to avoid strain and injury and will be able to quickly adjust techniques if any are causing additional discomfort.
Find Neck Pain Relief at Bay State Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a safe and effective treatment for neck pain. When introduced shortly after your initial injury or onset of pain, it can provide relief, improve function, and prevent future injuries. If you suffer from neck pain, ask your primary care doctor for a referral to physical therapy today.
Don’t let neck pain stand in your way. Ask your medical provider for a physical therapy referral to Bay State Physical Therapy! Call your nearest Bay State Physical Therapy location or complete the form below to request an appointment.
Resources:
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/turn-away-from-neck-pain
- https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(14)00833-7/fulltext
