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Neck and Upper
Back Pain
One of the most common complaints that patients have
is neck and upper back pain. Most people have pain that comes and goes for
a period of weeks or months, while others have acute pain from trauma or
overuse. The severity or duration of pain typically prompts them to call
for help. They describe their pain as a constant deep, gnawing, ache that
they cannot get away from. Many have pain that travels to their shoulders,
arms, and between their shoulder blades, while others develop headaches.
One cause of neck and upper back pain is from a
postural degeneration from work station ergonomics or weakening of the
upper back muscles from slouching. In this case the head drops forward,
the shoulders round forward and the neck and upper back muscles tighten to
hold the head from falling further forward. As this posture is maintained
for 16 hours a day, the muscles quickly become overused and spasm. As a
consequence to this abnormal posture and muscle tension, the neck
(cervical spine) becomes locked (subluxated), and the pattern of spasm and
pain is reinforced.
Another cause of pain is strain to the muscles and
a sprain of the ligaments of the neck due to a trauma such as car
accidents, lifting or falls. Whiplash is a common term which reflects the
action of the head as it is forced backwards and forwards.
Many people will try drugs and heat, which tend to
give temporary relief, but in many cases aggravate the problem. With
chiropractic care, I treat the patient with spinal adjustments to unlock
the spine, stretches to lengthen the muscles, ice to reduce the
inflammation and then progress to stabilization exercises that support the
head and shoulders in a neutral posture.
If you are having any of these symptoms, call for a
consultation to see if I can help you, or call for an examination today.
If you have questions about a problem you are having,
or have a condition that other treatment has not helped, call for a
consultation or examination today. 608-437-3600.
For more information, e-mail us
at info@kishchiropractic.com
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