Neck Pain Relief

Looking down at our tablets or smartphones for extended periods, slumbering in a less-than-ideal position—these are some of the many causes of neck pain. More than just discomfort, it can radiate to other areas, causing issues beyond the neck itself. Discomfort can range from mild stiffness to severe pain that impacts daily life. While it often starts in the upper spine, the effects can be felt lower in the back, across the shoulders, or even into the arms and head.

Many practice members experiencing shoulder discomfort may actually have a neck issue as the root cause. In fact, at Papakura Chiropractic, we find that adjusting the neck can resolve shoulder pain without directly treating the shoulder itself.

NEW PRACTICE MEMBERS

Common Causes of Neck Pain

Our modern lifestyle is a major contributor to neck pain. Poor posture from extended phone or computer use, often referred to as “text neck,” is a leading factor. When the head juts forward out of alignment, it places extra strain on the muscles, discs, and ligaments. Over time, this can lead to pain and stiffness. Other factors that contribute to this common malady include:

• Poor sleeping positions and improper pillow support
• Repetitive movements or prolonged positions while driving
• Muscle imbalances caused by daily activities like lifting

Neck pain is commonly rooted in issues with muscles, discs, or ligaments. Muscular pain often presents as tightness or stiffness, while disc-related discomfort is usually sharper and more intense. Ligament pain tends to occur after an injury. Regardless of the cause, chiropractic care focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying source of the pain.

The Importance of Alignment and Structure

Did you know that the position of your head relative to your shoulders is crucial? When your head is forward, your muscles have to work harder, leading to fatigue and discomfort. This imbalance can also irritate the discs and affect nerve flow. Chiropractic care aims to restore proper alignment by addressing the structural issues causing the imbalance. This process offers relief and long-term correction to improve your overall posture.

At our practice, we use imaging like X-rays to assess the condition of your spine and determine the extent of any deterioration. With this information, we create a customised plan to help restore your neck’s natural curve. Adjustments help reduce the stress on your muscles and discs, allowing them to function more effectively.

The Ripple Effects

Neck pain can have a wide range of effects beyond just discomfort. It can cause headaches, migraines, and even jaw pain. In some cases, it may affect vision or lead to discomfort radiating into the shoulders and arms.

The pain or symptom you’re experiencing isn’t the problem—it’s a signal of an underlying issue, much like a check engine light in your car. The light isn’t the problem; it’s what you notice. The real issue lies deeper, in the body’s ‘engine’.”
Dr Mohammed

Lifestyle Factors

We also pay close attention to lifestyle factors that might be contributing to your pain. For instance, how you sleep or how your workstation is set up can play a significant role in maintaining neck health.

We may ask you to bring in your pillow and a photo of your work setup, or show us how you perform daily activities like lifting or driving. These adjustments help prevent micro-traumas from accumulating, leading to lasting improvements.

Neck Pain Relief Papakura, AUK | (09) 298 7766