Neck Pain: Musculoskeletal (relating to joints, bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage) neck and lower back pain have been reported as the number one global cause of disability in most age groups. Contact Joint Health Chiropractic today
One of the biggest contributors to neck pain is known as cervical radiculopathy, more commonly referred to as a “pinched nerve”. This occurs when there is compression or irritation on a nerve in the neck where it exits the spinal cord. As a result of this, patients would often complain of pain radiating (pins and needles) into the shoulder and/or arm.
Cervical radiculopathy has many different causes. Usually in the mid-aged and older population it may result due to degenerative changes commonly known as “wear and tear”, for example arthritis. In the younger population it may result due to a sudden injury that leads to a herniated disc. It is no secret that chiropractic care is a sought after conservative treatment option for diagnosing and treating the cause of the symptoms associated with cervical radiculopathy.
What causes Cervical Radiculopathy?
1.Degenerative Changes
As we age, the height of the discs between the vertebrae gradually reduce and start to bulge. This causes a certain extent of dehydration of the discs, which in turn leads to the vertebrae moving closer to each other since the disc space height become reduced. However, the body will always compensate for any deviation. In order to account for the strength lost with the loss of disc space, the body reacts by forming additional bone referred to as “bone spurs”. This process contribute to the stiffening of the vertebrae forming the spine. There are tiny openings on each side of every vertebrae where the nerve roots branches away from the spinal cord. The bone spurs may decrease the space of these openings and pinch the nerve root.
The degenerative changes taking place in the spine are also referred to as spondylosis or osteoarthritis of the spine. These changes are seen as part of the normal ageing process which occur in everyone. The intensity of the symptoms associated with cervical radiculopathy differ from patient to patient with some people lucky enough not to experience any painful symptoms.
2.Herniated Disc
A herniated disc commonly occurs when lifting something that is heavy with the incorrect technique. The lifting may sometimes be coupled with bending or twisting actions. When the centre of the disc reaches its outer ring it is known as a disc herniation. The nucleus (centre of the disc) may squeeze through the outer ring with traumatic injuries or when the disc becomes more worn. A lot of unnecessary pressure is put on the nerve root as the herniated disc bulges toward the spinal canal. This may cause weakness and pain in the region that the nerve supplies.
What are the symptoms associated with Cervical Radiculopathy?
The pain associated with cervical radiculopathy generally starts at the origin point in the neck and goes down the arm in the region served by the affected nerve. The pain character is commonly described as sharp or burning. Neck movements that are likely to increase the pain include extending or turning the head. Symptoms usually include pins and needles or a numbness sensation in the fingers, as well as a potential decreased strength in the muscles serving the hand, shoulder or arm. Occasionally, placing the hands on top of the head may decrease the pain experienced – this action temporarily reduce pressure on the nerve root.
What are the treatment options available for neck pain such as Cervical Radiculopathy?
Chiropractic care is an excellent option for treating the cause of cervical radiculopathy. Spinal manipulative therapy may provide significant results and alleviate the pain experienced. This is generally coupled with soft tissue work done on the muscles involved. Furthermore, exercises aimed at relieving pain, strengthening neck muscles, and improving range of motion will be prescribed. If indicated, manual traction can also be implemented to gently stretch the joints and muscles of the neck.
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FAQ – Neck Pain
What are the root causes of neck pain?
Incorrect posture, accidents, a herniated cervical disc, an infection, a pinched nerve, whiplash, and age-related wear and tear are the most common causes of neck discomfort. Poor posture is another common contributor. Automobile crashes, personal injuries, sports injuries, work-related injuries, falls, spills, and other mishaps can all be potential causes of neck injuries that are caused by physical trauma.
If you have neck pain, what other symptoms might you experience?
The underlying source of the pain will determine the symptoms that are associated with it. In addition to experiencing discomfort in the neck, a patient may also have other symptoms, such as muscle stiffness, tingling, burning, lack of sensation, dull aching, and a restricted range of motion. It is not uncommon for a patient who has suffered an injury such as whiplash to experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including trouble sleeping, anxiety, sadness, and irritability.
How can I avoid experiencing pain in my neck?
Neck pain can be avoided by making certain adjustments to one’s lifestyle. These choices in lifestyle include periodic neck stretches, maintaining adequate hydration, and avoiding physical activities that place an extra strain on your neck.
When should I make an appointment with a physician?
If the pain in the neck has persisted for more than a few days, you should see a chiropractor as soon as possible. A situation of this kind has the potential to steadily deteriorate over the course of time.
What kinds of treatments are available for people who suffer from neck pain?
Treatment with chiropractic manipulation is one way that is beneficial in relieving neck pain. Non-invasive chiropractic treatments for neck pain include corrective exercises, massage therapy, spinal adjustments, and physical therapy. Chiropractic care is a non-surgical approach.