Neck pain can have several causes. While wear and tear is often the cause in the elderly, overuse of the neck is often the culprit in young people.
It is important to understand how an overworked neck can occur and the symptoms associated with it. In order to apply appropriate treatment and preventive measures. This will become clear on this page.
We also like to inform you about how the chiropractor can help reduce your neck pain.
What can cause you to strain your neck?
An obvious cause of neck strain, is prolonged poor posture. In modern society, bad posture is common while working on a computer or using your cell phone.
Neck strain can also result from lifting heavy objects. Lifting heavy objects with poor posture, or when the load is unexpected or too heavy, can lead to neck pain.
Another cause of an overworked neck is stress. When you experience a lot of emotional stress, it can cause you to constantly tighten your neck muscles, which can result in strain. In addition, trauma, such as a car accident or a fall, can lead to a neck injury.
The effects of overuse on neck muscles
Now you may be wondering how overuse of the neck can result in symptoms. First, we often see that overuse of the neck muscles leads to increased tension in the neck muscles, even at rest.
In addition, there may be muscle fatigue, which prevents the neck muscles from performing their normal function. Another possible consequence of overuse is inflammation of the neck muscles and surrounding tissues.
When there is swelling or muscle tension, it can even lead to compression or irritation of the nerves in the neck.
What are possible symptoms of an overworked neck?
All these changes in the neck bring symptoms. An overstressed neck can manifest as a stabbing or nagging pain. When the pain is too severe, you may be unable to perform a certain posture or movement.
In addition, you may suffer from a stiff feeling in the neck. In some cases, the pain is accompanied by headaches and radiating pain to the shoulder or arm. Finally, you may experience muscle cramps, fatigue and sensitivity to touch or pressure.
What to do in case of neck strain?
With neck strain, it is important to give your neck plenty of rest by avoiding activities that overload the neck or aggravate pain. So avoid lifting heavy objects, sitting for long periods in poor posture and performing repetitive movements that strain the neck. In addition to this, it is important to improve your posture to eliminate one of the perpetuating factors.
At the same time, it is important to keep moving your neck within your pain limits to prevent your neck from getting stiffer. A chiropractor is the right person to give advice on your lifestyle and treat neck strain.
How can chiropractic help with an overworked neck?
The goal of chiropractic care for an overused neck is to restore normal function to the neck and reduce pain. To create conditions for your neck to recover, we treat muscle tension, muscle fatigue and any inflammation.
This may involve the use of manipulation techniques by treating any abnormalities or blockages in the spine.
In addition, the chiropractor may use mobilization techniques, gently stretching the muscles and joints. Its purpose is to increase the range of motion and flexibility of the neck.
Finally, various techniques can be used to reduce muscle tension in the neck. Consider massage and stretching and relaxation exercises.