Neck and upper back pain explained.

Chronic neck and upper back pain is, unfortunately, extremely common in this computer-using, smartphone-using world we live in.

It’s so common that most massage therapists, Chiropractors, and other health care providers see it in their patients more than ANYTHING else.

WHY is this such a problem area?  And what can you do to NOT be one of the people suffering with it?

Well, chronic muscle tightness, pain, and decreased movement IMMEDIATELY tell us one thing: the shape and alignment of the neck is not as it should be.

If you look at someone from the side, their neck may appear straight from the outside but on an x-ray their neck should have a C-shaped curve.

Postural decay and forward head position happens as a result of all of that computer and smartphone use.  It’s so prevalent that I can’t remember the last time I saw a normal C-shaped curve on a New Patient.

So, if the neck has lost that shape is more like a straight line than a C-shaped curve, what do you think that will do to the muscles, ligaments, and most importantly, the nerves in that area?

The muscles and ligaments will be pulled tight which will decrease your movement and make the muscles hard (your massage therapist will tell you all about that).  All of that will irritate the nerves nearby causing the pain and headaches that have become so common.

To reduce the likelihood of that, do regular stretching, maintain good posture at work, and see a massage therapist.

But what if that has already happened and you’re regularly experiencing neck pain and stiffness and even headaches?

Specific chiropractic adjustments and exercises can improve and, in some cases, even restore the normal C-shaped curve of the neck.  Massage therapy is awesome and will give you relief, but it isn’t designed for correction.

If you’re DONE dealing with these ongoing pains and stiffness, schedule an appointment below and we’ll show you just how good it can be.