Neck Pain Treatment in Ham Lake
Neck Pain Treatment in Ham Lake, MN
Much like back pain, neck pain often arises from problems with the spine or the nearby connective tissue. The neck is especially sensitive to these problems because it rotates and tilts more often than the rest of the spine. These motions put plenty of wear on the neck and can quickly aggravate existing problems. At Exceptional Chiropractic, our Ham Lake chiropractors help patients find natural, drug-free relief from neck pain and stiffness.
Common Causes of Neck Pain
Often, pain results when the neck is stretched or rotated too far. This causes strains and sprains that, if left alone, can take weeks or longer to heal. One of the most common types of this injury is whiplash, which typically results from being rear-ended in a car accident or other collision. The force from behind whips the head forward and backward, injuring the soft tissues and joints of the neck.
Quickly whipping your head to the side, such as when you are startled, can also cause a surprising amount of damage. While this pain often subsides within a day or two, it can persist for months if the motion happened at a particular angle. Long-lasting pain from these injuries often involves the spine as well as the soft tissues.
Bad neck posture over a long period, such as looking down at a phone or at a computer screen or keyboard that sits too low, can also lead to neck pain. This type of injury is usually accompanied by stiffness, and over time you may find it hard to lift your head back into a neutral position, which makes things even worse.
Other common sources of neck pain include:
- Sports injuries and falls
- Sleeping in an awkward position
- Disc problems and arthritis
- Muscle tension related to stress
- Neck pain linked to headaches and migraines
How a Chiropractor Can Help Neck Pain
At Exceptional Chiropractic, neck treatment starts with an examination of the painful area and any other areas that may be contributing to your pain. We then typically perform an upper cervical spinal adjustment, which treats the vertebrae, discs, and other structures in the neck.
Soft tissue treatments, such as SASTM, are performed as needed to help speed healing of strains and sprains. Depending on your needs, your care may also include acupuncture, PEMF therapy, or cold laser therapy.
If we find that your posture or daily habits are causing or worsening your problem, we will provide education and corrective exercises to help you sit and move in a healthier way.
Neck Pain FAQs
Can a chiropractor help with neck pain?
Yes. Chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercises can help relieve neck pain and restore normal movement.
What is an upper cervical adjustment?
An upper cervical adjustment is a chiropractic adjustment that treats the vertebrae, discs, and other structures in the neck to restore proper alignment and motion.
Can chiropractic care help whiplash?
Yes. We treat whiplash with adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and exercises designed to help strained tissues heal.
Can poor posture cause neck pain?
Yes. Looking down at screens or keyboards that sit too low can strain the neck over time and cause pain and stiffness.
How long does neck pain take to heal?
Minor strains may improve in a few days, while injuries involving the spine and soft tissues can take longer. Your doctor will explain what to expect after your exam.
Can neck pain cause headaches?
Yes. Tension and misalignment in the neck often contribute to headaches, and treating the neck can help relieve them.
Should I see a chiropractor after a car accident if my neck feels stiff?
Yes. Neck stiffness after a collision can be a sign of whiplash, so it is best to be evaluated as soon as possible.
Contact Our Ham Lake Chiropractor Today
Get started on the road to a pain-free neck. Call Exceptional Chiropractic at (763) 208-5382 or request an appointment at our Ham Lake, MN office.
