Three Different Types of Neck Pain
By Sara Bulter
You may think that all neck pain is created equal, but the truth is that there are different types of neck pain that can be traced back to different causes. If you suffer from neck pain, then it's important to understand the root cause of it so that the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic can help you treat it. Here are the different types of neck pain and what causes them -- and how the chiropractor can help!
Three Types of Neck Pain
The three types of neck pain you can suffer from are:
- Neuropathic - This pain is caused by irritation to the nerves or nerve roots in the cervical spine, also known as the neck. It can be the result of conditions that press against the nerve, such as a disc herniation, or other things that cause irritation or compression of the nerves.
- Mechanical - This is pain caused by the supporting structure of the spine, such as the muscles, cartilage, ligaments, or bones. This is often caused by neck strain during sports or other physical activities, poor posture, or stress.
- Central neuropathic - This type of pain is caused by conditions that impact the central nervous system such as a stroke, multiple sclerosis, or a spinal cord injury. Traumatic injuries or illness are the root cause of this type of pain.
The Symptoms of Neck Pain
Of course, the hallmark of neck pain is, well, pain in the neck. But there are other common symptoms you should be on the lookout for so you can report them to the chiropractor, such as:
- Stiff neck muscles - You may experience tight muscles in the neck, back or the head, upper back, shoulders, and even your arms.
- Headaches - Many people complain of headaches with accompanying neck pain, especially headaches at the back of the head or tension headaches.
- Weakness or pain that goes down the arm - Sometimes the pain can travel from the neck and down one arm, all the way to the fingers. This is often caused by nerve issues.
- Loss of mobility - Difficulty moving the head, such as turning it from one side to another, can accompany neck pain.
How the Chiropractor Can Help
The chiropractors at The Joint are trained to look for the underlying cause of your symptoms, so that can be treated and you can get on the road to recovery. If you're having neck pain, then don't delay talking to the chiropractor so you can work together to figure it out.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.