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.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affects the wrists an injury that can prevent people from working and making the wrists and hands very painful. This is a wrist condition that can result in chronic wrist and hand pain.

Carpal: Across the back of the wrist, eight small irregular bones (called carpals) are aligned in 2 rows forming a letter “C.” There is a tough ligament attaching across the inner side of the wrist and thus forming the Carpal Tunnel.

Tunnel: An opening through which something passes through. Nine tendons of the muscles of the forearm that move the fingers along with the soft median nerve pass through this narrow tunnel. This tunnel is about the size of your little finger.

In carpal tunnel syndrome the median nerve becomes either compressed, irradiated or swollen resulting in pain.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve becomes irritated and swells. During the swelling the pressure in the canal increases leading to further irritation and compression of the nerve. This leads to more swelling and nerve irritation.

What are Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms?

Typical symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include parenthesis (abnormal sensations) such as tingling and numbness in the thumb and index and middle fingers on the palm side, night pain, and weakness in grasping, thumb and index finger pinching, and other thumb movements’ clumsiness such as awkward hand movements and dropping things with increased weakness.

What treatment is available for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Before commencing the treatment patient should be evaluated for the cause of the nerve swelling. Some systemic conditions such as under active thyroid can lead to the swelling of the tendons, thus putting pressure onto the median nerve.

Patients should also be evaluated for possible compression of the nerves at the neck, shoulder and elbow levels that can also present itself as a pain and weakness in the wrist. In majority of cases of wrist and hand pain and weakness the primarily cause is compression of the nerve root at the neck level that forms nerves of the arm and hand. That’s why some patients still experience symptoms of carpal tunnel even after the surgery or cortisone injections were performed.

Cold laser therapy applied over the carpal tunnel has proven to be very effective in reduction of swelling and pain management. Please contact us if you require further information. 

Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The lasers used at Central Chiropractic Clinic are certified as Cold Laser.  For the past 30 years the technology of Cold Laser Therapy (also known as Low Level Laser Therapy) has been formally accepted in North America and in many other parts of the world such as Europe, Russia and Japan.  In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from low level laser therapy.  It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.

Cold Laser Therapy uses laser light energy to stimulate cells to function optimally.  In the body, light sensitive chromophores and other elements within the cell absorb energy, initiating a series of important photochemical changes such as increased production of ATP. The mitochondria and Kreb’s Cycle stimulation initiates the production of ATP, providing the cell with the extra energy needed to accelerate the healing process and positively influence pain.  These activities can occur in all types of cells and includes ligament, nerves, cartilage and muscle.

Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a Handheld, non-invasive, light-emitting medical device which is used over different areas of the body. It provides an unmatched advantage in the treatment of conditions such as;

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

For the management of Neck Pain here at Central Chiropractic and  Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which provide Pain Relief, this also accelerates recovery, healing and significantly reduces the inflammatory process.  A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under “Pain Relief”, please also view our “Low level Laser Testimonial Video”.

 Neck Pain

Cervical Spine Anatomy

The cervical spine begins at the base of the skull. Seven vertebrae make up the cervical spine with eight pairs of cervical nerves. The individual cervical vertebrae are abbreviated C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6 and C7. The cervical nerves are also abbreviated; C1 through C8.

Cervical Vertebrae and Supporting Structures

The cervical bones, the vertebrae are smaller in size when compared to other spinal vertebrae. The purpose of the cervical spine is to contain and protect the spinal cord, support the skull, and enable diverse head movement ( rotate side to side, bend forward and backward).

A complex system of ligaments, tendons, and muscles help to support and stabilize the cervical spine. Ligaments work to prevent excessive movement that could result in serious injury. Muscles also help to provide spinal balance and stability, and enable movement. Muscles contract and relax in response to nerve impulses originating in the brain. Some muscles work in pairs or as antagonists. This means when a muscle contracts, the opposing muscle relaxes. There are different types of muscle: forward flexors, lateral flexors, rotators, and extensors.

Spinal Cord and Cervical Nerve Roots

Nerve impulses travel to and from the brain through the spinal cord to a specific location by way of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The PNS is the complex system of nerves that branch off from the spinal nerve roots. These nerves travel outside of the spinal canal or spinal cord into the organs, arms, legs, fingers – throughout the entire body.

Injury or mild trauma to the cervical spine can cause a serious or life-threatening medical emergency (spinal cord injury or SCI, fracture). Pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling are symptoms that may develop when one or more spinal nerves are injured, irritated, or stretched. The cervical nerves control many bodily functions and sensory activities.

C1: Head and neck
C2: Head and neck
C3: Diaphragm
C4: Upper body muscles ( Deltoids, Biceps)
C5: Wrist extensors
C6: Wrist extensors
C7: Triceps
C8: Hands

Neck Pain.

The neck (cervical spine) is composed of vertebrae that begin at the base of the skull and end in the upper torso. The vertebrae along with the ligaments provide stability to the spine. The muscles allow for support and movement of the neck. The neck supports the weight of the head which is 5 kg amounting to a significant load for the neck to cope with during motion thus increasing stress onto the neck (cervical spine). Compare to the rest of the spine, the neck is less protected and is more susceptible to injury and various disorders that can result in pain and restricted motion. Sometimes neck pain is a temporary condition going away on its own accord. Other cases require medical diagnosis and treatment to relieve the symptoms.

Causes

Neck pain may result from injury to the soft tissues including muscles, ligaments, nerves, bones and joints of the spine. Soft tissue injuries or prolonged wear and tear are amongst the most common causes of neck pain. Infection or tumors may cause neck pain in rare instances. Sometimes neck problems may be the source of pain in the upper back, shoulders or arms.

Neck pain may result from abnormalities in the soft tissues, muscles, ligaments, and nerves as well as in bones and joints of the spine. The most common causes of neck pain are soft-tissue abnormalities due to injury or prolonged wear and tear. In rare instances, infection or tumors may cause neck pain. In some people, neck problems may be the source of pain in the upper back, shoulders, or arms. Cold Laser Therapy section this therapy has a five star rating for treating neck injuries and conditions.

Neck Injury

Due to its flexibility and the weight of the head it supports the neck is extremely vulnerable to injury. Road traffic or diving accidents, contact sports, and falls are the main causes of neck injury. A “rear end” shunt during a car accident may result in hyper-extension, a backward motion of the neck beyond normal limits, or hyper- flexion a forward motion of the neck beyond normal limits. The use of seat belts and head restrains in cars can help to prevent or minimize neck injury. The soft tissues such as muscles and ligaments are most commonly involved. Severe injuries including fracture or dislocation of the neck may lead to the damage the spinal cord and cause paralysis.

Arthritis of the Neck

The neck is a common site for arthritis to develop.

The most common type of arthritis that affects the neck is osteoarthritis. This condition is also known as cervical spondylosis, cervical osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease of the neck.

Other forms of arthritis that can affect the neck are rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic, ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter’s disease, gout, pseudogout, and diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH).

Rheumatoid arthritis can destroy joints in the neck and cause severe stiffness and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects upper neck area. View our Cold Laser Therapy section this therapy has a five star rating for treating  this condition

Cervical spondylosis is a condition that mainly affects older people, usually over the age of 45. Men are affected more often than women. This condition results from degenerative changes that occur in the cervical spine (the spine of the neck). Changes in cartilage metabolism lead to slow wear and tear of discs and joints in the neck. Over time, the degenerative changes can lead to a bulging or herniated disc, calcium build-up within the disc, or bony growths on the spine. The end result is nerve compression or inflammation.

Also, depending on which way the disc herniates or the direction of the bony growths, there is a possibility that the spinal cord or nerve roots leading from the spinal cord could be compressed.

There is also the possibility that the blood flow to certain nerves may be affected.

Symptoms depend on the location of the nerve compression, but can include pain, numbness, weakness, headaches, urinary problems, etc.

Initially the person may not have any symptoms.

Others will have neck or shoulder pain, headaches in the back of the head, or stiffness of the neck. They may have difficulty turning or bending the neck from side-to-side.

Some will have pain that shoots down a certain part of the arm. They may also notice numbness, weakness, or pain in the arm. One or both sides may be affected. Often it causes the hands to become clumsy.

Some individuals will have numbness or weakness in their legs. This indicates that there may be pressure on the spinal cord. This is considered a surgical emergency. Many with this condition will have decreased vibration-sense in their legs. They may be unsteady while walking. In fact, spondylosis with myelopathy is a fairly common cause of unsteadiness in the elderly.

Others will have a specific level on the chest or abdomen where there is a noticeable change in sensation.

Problems with urination may occur. Some will have to urinate more often, while others will have to urinate urgently. A few will develop urinary incontinence.

The symptoms may get worse with turning, extending, or bending the neck. In others, coughing or straining may temporarily cause shooting pain in the arms or shoulders or it may worsen weakness in the legs.

Physical exam may reveal numbness or pain along a certain nerve distribution. Certain muscles may be weak and the reflexes not as brisk as normal. The affected individual may have difficulty with turning the neck or bending it from side to side. The arms or legs may be stiff. The hands may be weak and the muscles of the hands atrophied.

X-rays can be helpful in making the diagnosis. However, though X-ray findings of degenerative changes are often found in many older people, only a few will truly evidence the neurological changes caused by this condition. Alone, finding degenerative changes on X-rays is not conclusive but part of an overall determination of this condition that must take into consideration other factors. X-rays done with flexion and extension may show instability.

CT scan can be used to look at the spinal column and see if there is any narrowing or other abnormality.

MRI can also be used to look at the spinal column and see if there is any narrowing or other abnormality.

Nerve conduction studies and electromyography can be done to test the nerves and muscles.

The primary treatment for this condition is first to determine what type of arthritis is causing the problem. The second is making sure the neck is not unstable. Then, it is important to restrict neck movements. This is usually done with a cervical collar.

Medical treatment is usually with anti-inflammatory medicines, analgesics, and muscle relaxants. However, if this fails, then surgery may be necessary.

Physical therapy modalities such as Cold/Low level laser therapy, including stretching and strengthening exercises.

Patients may respond to steroid injections placed in the epidural space.

If that does not work, then surgery to decompress the nerve and stabilize the neck may be necessary.

Surgery is usually done if:

Conservative measures such as a cervical collar do not work.
There is severe pain.
There are significant neurological deficits, such as difficulty walking, severe hand weakness, or bladder problems.
There is compression of the spinal cord.

With any nerve condition, if it is not treated early, there is a danger that the loss of nerve function may be permanent. Nerves are very delicate. Once they are injured beyond a certain point, they do not recover. Therefore, the symptoms that can be caused by this condition could become permanent if not treated appropriately (i.e., numbness, weakness, and urinary problems).

There is no specific way to prevent this condition. However, good posture should be maintained.

Also, avoid repetitive injuries to the neck and cervical spine.

Neck Disc Injury, “Slipped Disc”, also known as Prolapsed, Bulging, Herniated or Extruded Disc

Disc Problems

What Causes Disc Problems?

Discs are the soft but strong cushions that separate the bones (vertebrae) in your spine and absorb shock as you move. Repeated strain over time, an injury, or sudden, forceful movements can damage discs and irritate nerves, causing pain, numbness, or tingling in your back and legs, neck,Shoulders and arms.

Common Slipped Disc, Neck Disc Injury

A Slipped Disc or (Disc Prolapsed) in the neck is a common cause of neck pain. Slipped disc treatment during the early stages involves limited mobilisation. Later, more active physical therapy rehabilitation is useful. During the later stages neck pain treatment can be enhanced if a pillow is used to support the neck.

Other Causes

Less common causes of neck pain include tumors, infections, or congenital abnormalities of the vertebrae.

Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) and Cervical Spine Injury

What is whiplash? 

An acute “whiplash” injury follows sudden or excessive hyper-extension, hyper-flexion, or rotation of the neck and causes neck pain and other symptoms. “Whiplash” injury is common in road traffic accidents, and may also be caused by sports injuries, falls or assaults. Most cases of “whiplash” injury occur as the result of rear-end vehicle collisions at speeds of less than 10 miles per hour. Patients present with neck pain and stiffness, occipital headache, thoracic back pain and/or lumber back pain, and upper-limb pain and paraesthesia.

There are two types of injury:

• Typical cervical hyper-extension injuries occur in passengers an drivers of a stationary or slow-moving vehicle that is struck from behind. Body is thrown forward but the head lags, resulting in hyper-extension of the neck. When the head and neck have reached maximum extension, the neck then snaps into flexion.
• A rapid deceleration injury throws the head forwards and flexes the neck. When the chin hits the chest it limits forward flexion but the forward movement may be sufficient to cause longitudinal distraction and neurological damage. Hyper-extension may occur in the subsequent recoil.

“Whiplash” injuries may occur at relatively low vehicle velocity impacts. One study showed the cervical muscle injury threshold to be about 10 km/hour. Whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) can be classified by the severity of signs and symptoms:

• Grade 1: no complaints or physical signs.
• Grade 2: indicates neck complaints but no physical signs.
• Grade 3: indicates neck complaints and musculoskeletal signs.
• Grade 4: neck complaints and neurological signs.
• Grade 5: neck complaints dislocation and fracture. Most cervical spine fractures occur predominantly at two levels:

1. One third of injuries occur at the level of C2, and one half of injuries occur at the level of C6 or C7.

2. Most fatal cervical spine injuries occur in upper cervical levels, either at cranio-cervical junction C1, or at C2

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various pains injuries and conditions such Back Neck and Pain Decompression (they can be found under the listing ”Types of Pain” in our “Neck Pain and Back Pain” Sections).    

For the management of pain and Neck Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under ”Pain Relief”, please also view our  ”Low level Laser Testimonial Video”.   

Cervicogenic headaches  

Cervicogenic headaches are defined as headaches originating from the neck. The location is typically at the back of the head, sides and top of the head as well as around the forehead and eyes affecting one or more of the above regions at once. These headaches can be located on one or both sides of the head. Cervicogenic headaches are usually associated with dysfunction of the upper neck which can present itself as neck pain or local tenderness, reduced neck range of motion and exacerbation of the headaches by neck movement. The past history of neck trauma is typical for this type of headaches. 

The Cervicogenic headaches are caused by irritation of nerve endings of injured joints, ligaments, muscles and discs of the neck. The nerve endings in the injured areas send pain signals up the upper nerves of the neck to the brain causing “cross wiring” with the fibers of the trigeminal nerve (one of the nerves in the head) which is responsible for perception of the head pain thus causing the headaches.

Neck pain as well as “whiplash” (WAD) injuries and both conditions can result in headaches and all three are commonly treated by Chiropractors.
The treatment is focused on the small joints in the back of the neck called facet joints  that are responsible for neck pain. When these joints dysfunction but injury to the muscles he nerve fibres that innervate / act as sensors for these facet joints also serve to act as sensors to parts of the head. When these facet joints dysfunction these sensors become active, the brain cannot clearly differentiate

Also available are 32 3D animated educational videos for various pains injuries and conditions such Back Neck and Pain Decompression (they can be found under the listing ”Types of Pain” in our “Neck Pain and Back Pain” Sections).    

For the management of pain and Neck Pain at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic, we use the latest Low Level Lasers which accelerate the recovery and healing process, leading to a significant reduction in pain inflammation. A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under ”Pain Relief”, please also view our  ”Low level Laser Testimonial Video”.   

Neck Pain

The neck musculoskeletal system including the cervical spine and spinal cord and cervical nerve Roots, injury to the spinal cord above C-5 may result in respiratory arrest and death if not medically treated.

Musculoskeletal system

The head is positioned upon the superior portion of the vertebral column, attaching the skull upon C-1, (The Atlas). The skeletal section of the head and neck forms the superior segment of the axial skeleton and comprises skull, hyoid bone, auditory ossicles, and cervical spine. The skull can be further subdivided into:

• (a) Cranium (8 bones: frontal, 2-parietal, occipital, 2-temporal, sphenoid, ethmoid), and
• (b) Facial bones, (14 bones: 2-zygomatic, 2-maxillary, 2-palatine, 2-nasal, 2-lacrimal, vomer, 2-inferior conchae, mandible).

As the fetus develops, the facial bones usually form into pairs, and then fuse together. As the cranium fuses, sutures are formed that resemble stitching between bone plates.

In a newborn, the junction of the parietal bones with the frontal and occipital bones, form the anterior (front) and posterior (back) fontanelle, or soft spots. The separation of the cranial bone plates at time of birth facilitates passage of the head of the fetus through the mother’s birth canal, or pelvic girdle. The parietal bones and occipital bone can overlap each other in the birth canal, and form the unusual looking “cone head” appearance in a newborn when delivered in a natural, or vaginal, delivery.

The occipital bone articulates with the atlas near the foramen magnum. The atlas articulates with the occipital condyle superiorly and the axis inferiorly. The spinal cord passes through the foramen magnum providing continuity for the central nervous system (CNS). Articulation of the neck includes: flexion, extension, hyperextension (nodding yes), and rotation (shaking head no).

Neck pain and whiplash are usually associated with the trauma suffered in an impact accident, such as a car crash. However a neck ache can occur for numerous reasons, in much the same way as there is often a variety of causes of back pain for example. As with many structures in the body, the neck is made up of muscles, ligaments, bones, nerves and joints, so is as susceptible to aches and injuries as any other. As the neck is responsible for carrying the weight of the head it needs to be protected, and any ailments treated immediately.

Experienced and knowledgeable chiropractors like us here at the Central Chiropractic Clinic are well placed to diagnose the cause of pain. We will talk you through your symptoms, and enquire as to any other illnesses or injuries that you are experiencing. We can even perform physical examinations, which test the motion of the neck and related muscles in the arms and legs, as well as X-rays.

When it comes to treating chronic neck pain Coventry, chiropractic care is often the most successful method, in addition to rest and an appropriate exercise programme. The application of physical manipulations of the neck can ease the pressure on nerves and the spinal cord, especially where pain is caused by a herniated disc. So don’t delay, if you are struggling with a pain in the neck contact a qualified and professional team like us at the Central Chiropractic Clinic today.

The Central Chiropractic Clinic are fully qualified to offer treatment for a wide variety of different conditions, from neck and upper back pain to sciatica, shoulder and knee pain. Whatever the condition they will comprehensively examine their patients and ask questions relating to the history of the case. Further diagnosis may involve the use of X-rays and scans.

The clinic and its treatments are all recognised by the General Chiropractic Council and the British Chiropractic Association and their chiropractors are all professionally trained with a full five year qualification. This specialist understands that treatment to the neck area can be relatively worrying for some patients, but their certification promises the utmost care and quality of service.

In addition to chiropractic treatment, physiotherapy and cold laser therapy, these specialists in neck pain Coventry often recommend additional practices that the patient can apply to their everyday life. These may include gentle exercise, rest or medication.

To book an appointment with this specialist in neck pain Coventry, Central Chiropractic Clinic, contact a member of their reception team who will be happy to arrange a time that suits you. In some cases they are able to arrange emergency appointments, simply call the local telephone number that can be found on their website.

Neck Pain

Neck pain can affect people of all ages and can be caused by a variety of different factors, from sporting injuries to stress. Whatever the cause of your neck pain, it is important not to ignore it as it could cause further issues related to posture and your general wellbeing. To help individuals overcome a range of musculo-skeletal injuries, there is a specialist in neck pain Coventry that offers a range of treatments to help get the body back into shape.

The Central Chiropractic Clinic is one such specialist that offers treatment for neck pain Coventry area; their treatments are recognised by the General Chiropractic Council and the British Chiropractic Association. Ranging from physical therapy to cold laser therapy, they can treat many different conditions through treatments that are tailored to an individual’s requirements.

Neck pain can be caused by a selection of factors, therefore it is essential that you have your neck and upper back examined by a professional chiropractor before undergoing any treatment. The chiropractors at this specialist clinic will always thoroughly examine their patients, sometimes using X-rays or CT, MRI and EMG scans to aid their diagnosis.

Physiotherapy or chiropractic treatment is usually the most efficient way to treat neck pain; patients visiting this clinic will always receive the highest level of treatment as their physiotherapists are certified and registered with the Health Professions Council.

These specialists are on hand to offer treatment from 8:00 am until 7:30 pm, Monday to Thursday, 8:00 am until 6:00 pm Friday and 9:00 am until 1:00 pm on a Saturday, so you can arrange appointments at the most suitable time for you and your lifestyle.

Information and resources regarding neck pain and a variety of other conditions that can be successfully treated through chiropractic methods can be viewed on their website. Individuals that require an appointment with this specialist in neck pain Coventry can view full contact details on their website.

Simple neck pain exercises may consist of flexion, extension, rotation and even shoulder shrugs and bracing. All of these, depending on the type of neck pain you are experiencing, can help to ease tension and release pain for a short while. It’s important to emphasise that these exercises are not designed to cure neck pain and that appointments with your chiropractor still need to occur to ensure that effective treatments resume.

Before undertaking any exercises, you must always consult this with your chiropractor who will advise you on the most suitable exercises for your condition based upon your circumstances and severity of your neck pain.

If approved, undertaking these exercises on a daily basis can prevent stiffness which then puts added strain on neck movements during the day or whilst sleeping. This can make controlling pain easier by regaining motion within muscles, this is by no means compensation for seeing your chiropractor.

So if you reside within the West Midlands, make an appointment with The Central Chiropractic Clinic, specialists of neck pain Coventry and surrounding areas. They provide professional advice, consultations and treatment programmes for individual clients, based upon their symptoms and experiences. With this in mind, ensure you seek help from qualified chiropractors if you are suffering from neck or back pain.

For the management of Neck Pain, here at Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic we use the latest Low Level Lasers which provide Pain Relief, this also accelerates recovery, healing and significantly reduces the inflammatory process.  A 5 star rating has been awarded to Low Level Laser Therapy, our laser section can be found listed under “Pain Relief”, please also view our “Low level Laser Testimonial Video”.  

What is neck pain? 

Neck pain is a very common medical condition, and one seen many times by Physiotherapists. Neck pain can come from many different disorders and diseases which affect the tissues in the neck, such as degenerative disc disease, neck strain, whiplash, herniated disc, or a pinched or trapped nerve or nerves. Neck pain is also referred to as cervical pain. Symptoms Neck pain is associated with a dull ache or aching around the afflicted area and will become worse as the neck is moved. Other symptoms associated with neck pain include numbness, tingling, tenderness, sharp and shooting pains, headaches, difficulty swallowing, pulsations, dizziness or light-headedness. It is also possible for the neck glands to swell. 

Treatments for Neck Pain 

Neck pain treatment options include rest, ice applications, physical therapy chiropractic manipulation, local injections of cortisone or anesthetics, muscle relaxants, analgesics, and surgical procedures. Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy is also a possible form of treatment. Neck and back pain are usually common conditions or injuries to the neck and back. The pain may come on gradually, or it may be acute and come on suddenly. Bad posture is a common cause in the onset of this pain but it is not the only cause. Chiropractors and Physiotherapists understand the various causes of neck pain, and can offer advice. 

Laser treatment for neck pain. Neck pain is a pain in the neck. It is common, often persistent, and responds poorly to medication. So it is encouraging to read that a relatively novel, non-invasive treatment shows evidence of effectiveness. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 randomised controlled trials of low-level laser therapy (LLLT)’ yielded 820 patients, for whom data was pooled. LLLT was found to reduce pain immediately after treatment in acute neck pain and up to 22 weeks after completion of treatment in patients with chronic neck pain. Low-level laser – or cold laser – is yet to be established as a medical treatment but, according to Wikipedia, papers are appearing at the rate of around 25 per month, mainly investigating treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. We will be watching. 

1. Chow RT, Johnson Ml, Lopes-Martins RA, Bjordal JM. Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo or active-treatment controlled trials. Lancet 2009 Dec 5;374(9705):1897-908. 

Cervicalgia 

The neck muscles are constantly placed under tension, although this tension helps to keep the head in position i.e. upright. However, the muscles in the neck are more prone to becoming stiff and painful as a result of this tension. As a result of violent movement or sudden impact (sometimes known as “whiplash” (WAD)). Cervicalgia is a localised pain that does not radiate through into other areas of the neck. 

Symptoms include: 

 • A sharp pain in the neck 

• Neck ache 

• Pain resulting from head movement 

• Pain radiating to the shoulders, arms and fingers 

It also may radiate pain into other areas; this is usually caused by a trapped nerve or nerves. Nerves can become trapped by tight muscles, disc damage, or the formation of bony deposits. Radiating pain in the neck which affects the shoulders and arms may also affect the fingers. Neck dysfunction can result in dizziness, nausea or headaches but it can be successfully treated by Cold Laser Therapy is one of the treatments offered by Central Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Clinic. 

Cervical Disc Injuries 

Most cervical disc injuries are caused by hyperextension, which results in compression of the cervical area Flexion injuries in the cervical area do not result in nerve compression. Symptoms of Cervical Disc Injuries The Pain may cause loss of sensation or tingling/pins and needles to the arms, and weakness are the main symptoms and signs of cervical disc injury. The pain is most noticeable symptom and it is usually the only one. Cervical disc injury can complicated by compression of either a cervical nerve root or by a compression of the spinal cord, but this reported injury is very infrequent. When compression of the nervous tissue occurs, patients may report different sensations other than pain. weakness to the legs/leg this is called spinal cord compression. if the arms/arm are affected this is called nerve root compression Pain can be felt in the neck or arm. Pain is always in the area of the neck and upper back between the shoulder blades. This is due to inflammation of the disc and the cervical vertebra joints. Sever inflammation can flare up after a minor added injury or for other unknown reasons. 

Neck and shoulder pains are due to the disc bulges that herniates, and stretches the posterior longitudinal ligament. 

1. Rarely, the pain will be felt down the arm. This pain can be lightning, caused or aggravated by movements of the neck, or can be dull and persistent. Pre-existing neck pain is also present in many individuals. After the arm pain starts, some people report feeling less pain in their neck. When arm pain is present, it is usually because of a combination of disc herniation and bony spurs compressing a nerve root. A free disc fragment can also intrude on a cervical root and cause quite a bit of pain in shoulder or down the arm. 

2. Sensory symptoms other then pain. When felt in only one arm, they are due to compression of a cervical root and felt in the territory of the cervical root. The C4 root mainly supplies the shoulder with nerves, while the C5 root supplies primarily the arm. The C6 root supplies nerves to the radial side of the forearm, the C7 root addresses the arm and forearm, and the C8 and the T1 root handle mostly the hand. Broadly speaking, two types of sensory symptoms are felt: loss of sensation and new sensations. A loss of sensation is simply numbness. 

New sensations include tingling (pins and needles) heat or cold sensations. If the spinal cord is compressed, most patients report losing sensation in their hand and in the lower part of their body. (Numbness) They have difficulty feeling the floor when they walk and cannot feel that their bladder is full or incontance, this is an emergency and patients should be brought to the hospital right away. 

3. Motor symptoms and signs. Weakness of one arm (the other one being normal) only signals a compression of a nerve root. A compression of C4 results in a weak shoulder; C5 indicates a weak bicep muscle; C6 represents a weak wrist, thumb, and index finger; C7 is a weak tricep, extension of the fingers, and pectoralis muscles; C8 designates weak flexion of the fingers; and T1 corresponds to a weak hand. Emergency Treatment. 

If the spinal cord is compressed, patients report having difficulty walking and weak legs and hands, numbness these can be the only symptoms and should be treated as an emergency. Although neck pain can be caused by injury, such as ‘whiplash’ injuries, it is often caused by the cumulative effect of improper sitting posture, reading in bed, poor work habits, stomach sleeping, lack of proper exercise and other lifestyle-related factors. All of these factors cause misalignments in the spine and eventually pain. In fact, the most important factor producing neck pain appears to be spinal misalignments. Even for people who complain that “stress” is causing their pain, the great majority of those have significant spinal misalignments that are contributing to their condition. Uncorrected chronic spinal misalignments can eventually cause neck pain. As a spinal misalignment worsens, pressure can be put on delicate nerves, sending the surrounding neck muscles go into painful and movement-limiting spasm, headache, even numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms or hands. 

Cervicogenic headaches. 

Cervicogenic headaches are defined as headaches originating from the neck. The location is typically at the back of the head, sides and top of the head as well as around the forehead and eyes affecting one or more of the above regions at once. These headaches can be located on one or both sides of the head. 

Cervicogenic headaches are usually associated with dysfunction of the upper neck which can present itself as neck pain or local tenderness, reduced neck range of motion and exacerbation of the headaches by neck movement. The past history of neck trauma is typical for this type of headaches. The cervicogenic headaches are caused by irritation of nerve endings of injured joints, ligaments, muscles and discs of the neck. The nerve endings in the injured areas send pain signals up the upper nerves of the neck to the brain causing “cross wiring” with the fibers of the trigeminal nerve (one of the nerves in the head) which is responsible for perception of the head pain thus causing the headaches. 

Neck pain as well as “whiplash” (WAD) injuries and both conditions can result in headaches and all three are commonly treated by Chiropractors. The treatment is focused on the small joints in the back of the neck called facet joints that are responsible for neck pain. When these joints dysfunction but injury to the muscles he nerve fibres that innervate / act as sensors for these facet joints also serve to act as sensors to parts of the head. When these facet joints dysfunction these sensors become active, the brain cannot clearly differentiate between the facet joints and the mapping of the head and create the sensation of pain in a broader area- Headache. 

Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD 

“Whiplash”(WAD). FROM: Journal of Orthopaedic Medicine 1999; 21 (1): 22–25 university Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Bristol, UK Khan S, Cook J, Gargan M, Bannister G Objective: 

To determine which patients with chronic “whiplash” (WAD) will benefit from chiropractic treatment. Design: 

Retrospective review by structured telephone interviews of 93 consecutive patients seen in chiropractic clinic. Setting: Independent chiropractic clinic in a large city. Subjects: 93 patients, 68 female. Main outcome measure: Gargan and Bannister grading pre and post treatment. 

Results: 

Three groups of patients were recognised. 

Group 1 consisted of patients with isolated neck pain associated with a restricted range of neck movement. 

Group 2 consisted of patients with neurological symptoms or signs associated with a restricted range of movement. 

Group 3 comprised patients who described severe neck pain but all of whom had a full range of neck movement. Patients in this group often described an unusual group of symptoms, with a bizarre, non-dermatomal pain distribution. There was a significant difference in outcome between the three groups (p<0.001) with only groups 1 and 2 improving following chiropractic manipulation. 

Conclusion: 

“Whiplash”(WAD) and neck injuries are common. Chiropractic is the only proven effective treatment in chronic cases. Our study enables patients to be classified at initial assessment in order to target those patients who will benefit from such treatment. 

Neck Anatomy 

The head weight of 12 lbs or more not only does the neck fully support all that weight, it enables the head to turn or move up or down No other part of the spine has the ability to move so much: in forward motion, and in backward motion, this also includes the side-to-side motion, and from shoulder to shoulder. The neck is called the cervical spine, and it begins at the base of your skull. It contains 7 small bones (vertebrae), which doctors label C1 to C7 (the ‘C’ means cervical). The numbers 1 to 7 indicate the level of the vertebrae. C1 is nearest to the skull, while C7 is nearest to the chest. In between each vertebra are tough fibrous shock-absorbing discs called the intervertebral discs. Each disc is made up of a gel-like outer band (annulus fibrosus) and a gel-like inner substance (nucleus pulposus). Besides the bones and the discs, the neck consists of joints, muscles, and ligaments these stabilize and give the neck its full range of movement. The neck is the upper part of the spinal cord, and consists of nerve roots, and an elaborate system of arteries and veins. The nerves in the neck help the brain communicate with the shoulders, arms, and chest. The arteries and veins circulate blood to both the brain and the heart. 

For Further in depth Information on Neck pain or Headaches, please go to under “Types of Pain”.” For Cold or Low Level Laser Therapy, please go to “Pain Relief”