Neck area comprises of cervical spine that is made up of seven vertebrae extending up to the skull’s base. Surprisingly these vertebrae support the full weight of the head and are responsible for turning the head in almost every direction. Due to this particular nature and function of the neck, it is susceptible to different types of injury and pain.
Cervical biomechanics has a major role to play in making the neck susceptible to injury, and therefore you need to consult a specialist like Wirth Chiropractic in Greenville, NC when you have a neck pain. Injury to the neck can be caused by repetitive neck movements, extended sitting, whiplash trauma, blow to the head, and due to aging.
Most victims of auto accidents suffer neck injury from whiplash trauma, where the head is jerked violently forwards and backwards. In minor cases, the injury will be limited to muscle fatigue due to the contraction and tightening of neck muscles; however, in major injuries the vertebral joints, ligaments, discs, nerve roots and ligaments could be severely affected.
Cervical spine can also be affected by degenerative disorders such as spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, and disc degeneration. Lastly, obesity, poor posture, and weakened muscles of the abdomen can put undue strain on the neck
Chiropractic Checkup
On your first visit to Wirth Chiropractic in Greenville, NC, the doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and ask you several questions about your current and past symptoms. The doctor could ask you when the pain started, if the pain radiates to other body parts, and whether any movement or posture makes the pain less or worse. The doctor will check your range of motion, posture, and general physical condition.
Neurological examination could include testing your muscle strength, reflexes, pain spread, and nerve changes. Wirth Chiropractic might also order scans or x-rays to detect bone spurs, narrowed disc, bulging disc, arthritis, or fractures. If the doctor suspects nerve damage, he might order EMG (electromyography) to test the response of certain nerves.
Chiropractic Treatment is the Best Option
Wirth Chiropractic in Greenville, NC has a conservative approach to neck pain and rarely prescribes surgery or drugs. Only if he detects the presence of organic disease or a neck fracture, he will refer you to another appropriate specialist. The main treatment approach will be chiropractic adjustments, manipulations, and prescribing therapeutic exercises. Most patients feel immediate difference after an adjustment session with improved range of motion and reduction in pain, stiffness, and soreness.
