The neck or “cervical spine” has 7 vertebrae that allow the head and neck to move freely in all directions with a considerable amount ease. If one or all of these vertebrae become misaligned or stressed in some way, then symptoms are not far away. Most of the time, just like the rest of the body, we take the head and neck for granted.

When there is an injury or too much biomechanical stress is put on any one or number of these vertebrae, then if not immediate, in time symptoms will occur. The main symptom patients present with is pain – “it hurts!” Other symptoms may include muscle tension and tightness, aching muscles, tiring muscles after certain activities or towards the end of the day, sharp pain, pins and needles, numbness, weakness. Any of these symptoms can occur not just at any part of the spine, but can also radiate out into the arms or into the head too causing headaches  

Many people think because the neck is smaller than the low back or lumbar spine, that it doesn’t undergo much physical stress on a daily basis. This simply isn’t true; in actual fact the neck undergoes considerable stress on a daily basis. The head itself does weigh a lot more than we realize. Imagine the weight of a bowling ball, it is then easier to appreciate the forces required to just keep the head held high in the upright position. The head doesn’t just balance on its own; there are many ligaments and muscles to prevent it from dropping forwards etc.

We must not forget that although textbooks describe the neck as a distinct region in itself, it still has physical attachments to the ribs, thoracic spine, shoulder blade etc.

Neck pain can be caused by a problem with any of the areas it is physically attached to. Just like leg pain is often caused by a problem with the lower back, buttock or hip. 

Caution – It can be potentially dangerous to drive when suffering with shoulder, neck or even low back pain. Try to find a clinic that has a good reputation (ideally by recommendation) and a clinic that is as close to you as possible. Also, you may find it easier if you find a clinic where you don’t have to climb stairs or cross busy main roads. If you are in severe pain, then disabled access can make your visit run much more smoothly too.

What Do I do Now

The first thing to do is follow these simple steps:

1)    Rest – try to reduce any activities that you think might aggravate the condition.

This may include reducing time at your computer, decreasing or stopping sporting activities or hobbies and try to limit the distance you drive on a daily basis (particularly after treatment). Most people don’t realise how much the shoulder and surrounding musculature have to work whilst driving.

2)    Ice – If the area is painful, warm/hot or tender to touch, then the use of regular ice packs can help reduce the pain and inflammation. Please refer to our other section on the correct use of ice packs. 

3)    Compression – When using the ice pack, try to compress the ice pack onto the affected area so there is good contact and the surface area of the ice pack covers the affected area. 

4)    Elevation – Elevating the affected area also helps slow down the build up of excess fluid in the affected area. 

5)    Chiropractic Appointment – Whether you are an existing patient or even if it is your first time, make an appointment to see the chiropractor/physiotherapist. The therapist can will take a good history, examine you and advise the most appropriate course of action. If it is safe to proceed with treatment, then the therapist will start to address your problem(s). 

If treatment is necessary, the chiropractor will begin treatment. Treatment may include manipulation, mobilization, acupuncture or even Laser Therapy (please refer to our section on Low Level Laser Therapy.