Neck and shoulder pain: Treatments, prevention, and causes

Neck and shoulder pain can be classified in many ways. Some people experience only neck pain or only shoulder pain, while others have pain in both areas.

Link to Easetak

Neck Pain Causes

Causes of neck pain include:

• Abnormalities in the bone or joints
• Trauma
• Poor posture
• Degenerative diseases
• Tumors
• Muscle strain

Shoulder Pain Causes

The shoulder is a ball and socket joint with a large range of movement. Such a mobile joint tends to be more likely to be injured. Shoulder pain can stem from one or more of the following causes:

• Strains from overexertion
• Tendinitis from overuse
• Shoulder joint instability
• Dislocation
• Collar or upper arm bone fractures
• Frozen shoulder
• Pinched nerves (also called radiculopathy)

Diagnosing Neck and Shoulder Pain

• X-rays. Plain X-rays can reveal narrowing of the space between two spinal bones, arthritis-like diseases, tumors, slipped disks, narrowing of the spinal canal, fractures , and instability of the spinal column.
• MRI. Magnetic resonance imaging is a noninvasive procedure that can reveal the detail of neural (nerve-related) elements, as well as problems with the tendons and ligaments.
• Myelography/CT scanning. This is sometimes used as an alternative to MRI.
• Electrodiagnostic studies. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) are sometimes used to diagnose neck and shoulder pain, arm pain, numbness and tingling.

Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief

You may be able to ease neck and shoulder pain with some simple home treatments. Here are some strategies that can bring relief. 

Hot and cold therapy

You can find treatments that may help with neck and shoulder pain in your freezer and medicine cabinet. If you just injured your neck or shoulder, try applying an ice pack or bag of frozen peas (wrapped in a towel to prevent frostbite) for about 15 minutes at a time, several times a day. That will help reduce inflammation and swelling that cause symptoms after an injury. After a few days, you may want to switch to heat therapy, which helps muscles loosen up and gets blood flowing to the injury site and promotes healing. A heating pad works well, though if you don’t have one, a hot towel or even a steamy shower can help. Avoid using heat if your neck or shoulder has obvious swelling. 

Improve your posture

Good posture matters, since slouching and other bad habits can cause neck and shoulder pain, along with many other health issues. Improving your posture when you're at work and throughout the day can help relieve and prevent neck and shoulder pain. Here are some tips to help improve your posture problems.

Stand tall. Hold your head high, tuck in your chin, straighten your spine, throw your shoulders back, and pull in your belly. No matter your height, standing tall is great for your posture. 

Avoid "tech neck." Surprisingly, a common cause of neck and shoulder pain may be in your pocket or on your desk. When you use a cellphone or computer, you may have a tendency to look down at the screen. As you slump forward, the weight of your head puts a lot of pressure on your neck and shoulders, which can make them sore and stiff. This problem has become so common that doctors have a name for it: tech neck. Adopting some good habits can help you avoid tech neck.

When you use your cellphone, try to hold the at eye level when viewing the screen. If you spend a lot of time on your all day, stretch your neck frequently. 

When you’re working with a computer -- or whenever you sit for a long time -- making sure you’re in the proper seated position is important for preventing neck and shoulder pain. 

• Sit up straight, with your hips, spine, and head in alignment. 
• Tuck a small pillow behind your lower back if your chair lacks lumbar support. 
• Keep your wrists straight and forearms parallel to the floor.
• Place your computer or laptop on a stand so that you don’t have to tilt your head downward to view the screen.
• Keep your feet flat on the floor and avoid crossing your legs.  
• Take frequent breaks -- get up and walk around now and then. 

Drive smart. Many of the same rules for healthy sitting apply when you get behind the wheel. Sit with your spine straight and use a small pillow or lumbar insert to support your lower back. 

Work on your stress

When you feel stressed out, your neck muscles can naturally tense up, which worsens pain and other symptoms. You may also hunch your shoulders, which contributes to back pain. Psychological stress is bad for your body and mind in many other ways, so find a way to keep it under control that works for you. Some possibilities include:

Meditation. There are many forms of this ancient practice, which can focus and clear your mind. 

Mindfulness. This practice involves closely observing what’s happening around you, without judgment, gently steering your attention back to your focus if your mind drifts off to other thoughts. Mindfulness meditation is popular, though you can also adopt a more mindful approach to everyday life. 

Breathing exercises. Simply stopping to focus on your breath can help ease anxiety. Here's one widely used technique: Inhale through your nose for a count of four, hold it for a count of seven, then exhale through your mouth for eight counts. Repeat.

Practicing good sleep hygiene. Not getting a good night’s sleep can also impact your level of stress. Follow some good sleep hygiene habits to make sure you are getting plenty of shut-eye, including:

• Go to bed and get up at the same time every day.
• Cut back on caffeine if you think it’s keeping you up. 
• Do something calming, like reading or taking a warm bath, before you go to bed.
• Avoid screens before bedtime. 
• Don’t have a nightcap – it may make you drift off faster, but can mess up your sleep later on. Eating a big meal before bed is a no-no, too. 
• Keep your bedroom dark and cool. 

Get some exercise. Research shows that staying active can help relieve stress and anxiety. Find a workout or other activity (such as dance or gardening) you enjoy and stick with it.

Adjust your sleeping position

If you sleep on your back. It might seem like lying down should help relax your neck and shoulder pain, but sleeping in the wrong position can cause or worsen the problem. The worst position for your neck, shoulders, and back is sleeping on your stomach, which causes these body parts to become tense and stressed. Stomach sleepers are more likely than back or side sleepers to have neck pain during the day. Experts agree that sleeping on your side or back is much better for your neck.  

If you sleep on your side. Most people sleep on their side. It’s important to keep your neck aligned with your spine while you snooze. A thin pillow will cause your head to droop toward the mattress and strain your neck, so the Sleep Foundation recommends using a thick pillow or a stack of them to keep your head in a neutral position. Just don’t stack the pillows too high or your neck could bend upward, and you don’t want that, either. You may also want to try rolling a towel into a tube shape and inserting it along the long bottom portion of your pillowcase, which can help support your neck. You can find special pillows with built-in neck support, too. 

If you prefer to sleep on your back. If this is your favorite sleeping position, find a pillow height that keeps your head and spine aligned. Tuck a pillow under knees, which will take pressure off your lower back. You can also consider getting a feather-filled pillow, which is soft enough to conform to the shape of your head and neck. Or try a “memory foam” pillow, which does the same. 

Neck and Shoulder Pain Treatment

There are many options for relieving neck and shoulder pain. Your doctor can tell you which is the best course of treatment for you.

Over-the-counter pain relievers. You may get some relief from neck and shoulder pain from anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Acetaminophen is another option. 

Prescription medications. If you see a doctor about your neck and shoulder pain, they may prescribe drugs like muscle relaxers and even certain antidepressants, depending on the source of your pain. If arthritis is causing shoulder pain, corticosteroid injections may be helpful.

Physical therapy. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to perform at home that can help relieve neck and shoulder pain, while also improving your flexibility. 

Immobilization for fractures. If you have shoulder pain related to a mild fracture, your doctor may recommend that you wear an arm sling or brace to immobilize the joint while it heals. If you suffer a neck fracture or other injury, you'll likely be instructed to wear a hard collar to keep your spine stable as it heals. Soft collars are also sometimes used to treat pain (such as from whiplash after a car accident), however they're somewhat controversial. Not all studies show that they help and some doctors worry that using them for too long can lead to trouble by causing muscles to weaken. 

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). TENS is a treatment that uses a low current of electricity to relieve pain. However, a recent review found little solid evidence that it helps with neck pain. Likewise, another analysis failed to find clear evidence that TENS relieves pain from a common shoulder condition called rotator cuff tendinopathy. 

Acupuncture. In this traditional Chinese treatment, a practitioner inserts slender needles into the body to treat pain and other conditions. One review found that acupuncture may provide some relief of neck pain, but the benefits were short lasting. Another recent review reached a similar conclusion for shoulder pain, finding that acupuncture may bring about short- to medium-term (less than 3 months) relief when used alone or in combination with other treatments. 

Massage. A recent analysis found that massage offers little long-term relief, if any, for chronic neck pain. However, a neck and shoulder massage may relax tense muscles and make you feel more relaxed. 

Surgery. If your neck and shoulder pain persist for months and nothing else eases your discomfort, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgical repair of a condition such as a herniated disk in the neck or torn rotator cuff in the shoulder may be what it takes to get you back to being pain free.

Exercises for Neck and Shoulder Pain

Exercise is essential for preventing and relieving neck and shoulder pain. If you're being treated for pain and other symptoms in your neck or shoulder, ask your doctor what exercises are right for you. They may refer you to a physical therapist to learn the right technique. 

Exercises for neck and shoulder pain fall into two categories: isotonic exercise, where you contract muscles while moving, and isometric exercise, in which you contract muscles without moving. Below are examples of each type. Remember to start slowly, don’t overdo it, and breathe regularly while doing these exercises.

Exercises for neck pain

1. While standing or seated, tuck your chin down to your chest, then turn your head to the right. Try to bring your chin close to the shoulder. Hold 3 seconds, return your head to the neutral position, then repeat with the left shoulder. Do this five times. 

2. Bend your head as if you’re trying touch your right ear to your shoulder. Hold for a moment, return your head to neutral, then repeat with the other shoulder. Do this five times. 

3. Place the palm of one hand on your forehead, then cover it with the other hand. Without moving your head, push it forward against your hand. Hold for a count of 10 and relax, then repeat three times. You can do a similar exercise by placing your hands at the back of the head and on each side with one hand. 

Exercises for shoulder pain

1. Get a 1-pound or 2-pound weight and hold it in the hand of the arm with the painful shoulder. Lean forward and steady yourself with your good arm on the back of a chair or table. Let the arm holding the weight dangle with the elbow straight. Swing the weight side to side for 1 minute, then back and forth for 1 minute, then in a clockwise fashion with increasingly larger circles, then go counterclockwise.

2. Standing near a wall, hold out your arm straight and “walk” your fingers up it. Go as high as you can. When you reach as high as you can, turn your body slightly open and repeat. Do this until your side is facing the wall. Keep repeating the climbing motion for 10 minutes. Repeat several times a day. 

3. Hold your arms out parallel to the ground, then place your palms together. Push the hands against one another for a count of five, relax, and repeat three times. For a related exercise, instead of placing your palms together, tuck the fingers of each hand into the other and pretend you’re trying to pull them apart.

When to See a Doctor for Neck and Shoulder Pain

Neck and shoulder pain often respond well to at-home treatments, but some cases need care by a doctor, and sometimes immediate treatment is needed. 

Make an appointment to see your doctor if:

• You are using pain relievers, hot and cold therapy, and other treatments, but the pain is getting worse. 
• You have had no luck with at-home treatments after several weeks. 
• Your shoulder is red and numb, or you’re having a hard time moving it. 
• You feel the pain scattering down your arms and legs. 
• You have other symptoms, such as a headache or numbness.

Get to a doctor ASAP if:

• Your pain was caused by an accident, fall, or other form of trauma.
• Your limbs suddenly feel weak.
• You have a fever. 
• Your head can go forward or backward much more than usual.
• You feel chest pain or pressure. 
• Persistent swollen glands in your neck.
• You can’t control your bowels or bladder. 
• You have suddenly become clumsy or keep falling. 

Takeaways

Neck and shoulder pain are common problems with many potential causes, such as accidents, wear and tear, overdoing it when you work out, and even poor posture. Some simple steps can help prevent neck and shoulder pain, such as setting up your workspace so that it doesn’t stress your joints and muscles – even spending less time on your cellphone may help. You can relieve many cases of neck and shoulder pain with simple treatments such as an ice pack or heating pad, but if you develop chronic discomfort, see a doctor. 

Neck and Shoulder Pain FAQs

What is the first line treatment for neck pain? If your neck pain is mild, you can usually manage it at home with simple treatments such as an ice pack or heating pad, or doing some stretching to ease the tension in your muscles. Practicing better posture by making certain adjustments like keeping your back well supported and your computer screen at eye level can help, too. 

How to manage neck and shoulder pain? For mild neck and shoulder pain, often all you need to do is apply an ice pack or heating pad, pop some over-the-counter pain relievers, and take it easy for a few days -- many cases go away on their own after a short time. But if you have persistent or severe neck or shoulder pain, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, see a doctor soon. 

What is the best medicine for neck and shoulder pain? The best medicine for neck and shoulder pain is what works for you. No two cases are the same and these common problems have many potential causes. The right medicine for your will depend in large part on what is causing your aches and stiffness. 

What is the best pain medication for shoulder pain? There is no single best medication for shoulder pain. Doctors often recommend ibuprofen, though some may suggest acetaminophen. If those don’t help, a doctor may prescribe other medication, such as muscle relaxers and certain antidepressants that can relieve pain. 

Neck pain, an affliction that affects countless individuals, is more than just a discomfort. It can be an all-encompassing burden that disrupts daily life, limits mobility, and hampers overall well-being. 

In a world where sedentary lifestyles, digital devices, and the demands of modern living often contribute to neck pain, seeking effective solutions becomes paramount.

Chiropractic care for neck pain is a beacon of hope in the quest for relief. We’ll delve into the intricate realm of neck pain, exploring its prevalence, underlying causes, and the potential for lasting relief through chiropractic care. 

Our sincere mission is to shed light on this issue, offering guidance and expertise to empower you on your journey toward a life free from the constraints of neck pain.

Understanding Neck Pain

In pursuing effective solutions for neck pain, it is imperative to begin by understanding this intricate condition. Neck pain is not merely a singular ailment but a complex issue with many potential causes and triggers. It is a prevalent concern, affecting individuals across various ages and walks of life.

Causes and Common Triggers of Neck Pain

Neck pain can arise from diverse sources, and identifying the specific cause is pivotal to effective treatment. Common causes of neck pain include muscle strain, poor posture, injuries, herniated discs, osteoarthritis, and stress. 

Each of these factors can contribute to the discomfort experienced in the neck region, and a chiropractor for neck pain can play a pivotal role in addressing these underlying issues.

Impact of Neck Pain on Daily Life and Overall Well-Being

The repercussions of neck pain extend far beyond the physical discomfort it entails. Neck pain can disrupt daily life, hampering tasks such as turning your head or looking over your shoulder. 

It can impede productivity at work and hinder the enjoyment of leisure activities. Moreover, the persistent presence of neck pain can lead to psychological and emotional distress, affecting overall well-being and quality of life.

Understanding neck pain is the initial step toward finding effective relief. Our commitment is to provide you with the knowledge and expertise needed to navigate this challenging terrain. 

We recognize neck pain is not merely a symptom but a complex condition with unique aspects for each individual. We aim to alleviate discomfort and enhance your overall quality of life through chiropractic care for neck pain.

What is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care represents a distinct and highly regarded healthcare discipline that focuses explicitly on diagnosing, treating, and preventing musculoskeletal disorders, including neck pain. 

It is built upon a unique set of principles and techniques that differentiate it from conventional medical approaches.

For more information, please visit Neck Pain Management.

Chiropractic care is rooted in the fundamental belief that the human body possesses an innate ability to heal itself when its musculoskeletal system is in proper alignment. 

Chiropractors employ specialized techniques to restore and maintain this alignment, such as spinal adjustments, manual manipulations, and physical therapies. 

These techniques are designed to address the underlying causes of pain rather than merely alleviating symptoms.

Chiropractors, particularly those specializing in neck pain, are highly trained healthcare professionals who understand the spine, neck, and nervous system. 

This expertise allows them to diagnose and treat a broad spectrum of neck-related conditions. They take a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of the musculoskeletal system and its profound impact on overall health.

The role of a chiropractor for neck pain extends beyond symptom management; it encompasses the enhancement of overall well-being. Chiropractic care facilitates the body's innate healing processes by identifying and correcting misalignments in the spine and neck. 

This approach addresses the root causes of neck pain, offering the potential for sustainable relief and improved quality of life. 

Chiropractic care is not merely a treatment; it embodies a healthcare philosophy that empowers individuals to participate in their well-being actively and aligns with the body's natural capacity for healing.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Neck Pain

When seeking relief from neck pain, chiropractic care offers a distinctive set of advantages that sets it apart from conventional medical approaches. These benefits encompass the alleviation of pain and the restoration of overall well-being.

Non-Invasive Approach to Pain Relief

Chiropractic care for neck pain stands out for its non-invasive nature. It refrains from surgical procedures and medication use, instead focusing on natural, holistic healing methods. 

This approach minimizes potential risks and side effects, allowing patients to recover with greater peace of mind.

Addressing the Root Cause of Neck Pain, Not Just Symptoms

One of the fundamental principles of chiropractic care is addressing the root cause of a health issue rather than merely alleviating symptoms. 

In the case of neck pain, chiropractors delve deep into the underlying musculoskeletal issues that contribute to discomfort. By identifying and correcting these root causes, chiropractic care offers the potential for lasting relief.

Restoring Proper Spinal Alignment and Posture

Neck pain often arises from misalignments in the spine and poor posture. Chiropractors are experts in spinal manipulation and adjustments, techniques that aim to restore proper alignment. This relieves neck pain and enhances overall posture and musculoskeletal health.

Promoting Natural Healing and Recovery

Chiropractic care places faith in the body's innate ability to heal itself. Chiropractic care empowers the body to heal and recover naturally by restoring proper spinal alignment and addressing musculoskeletal imbalances. 

This holistic approach often leads to pain relief and an overall sense of vitality.

Potential for Long-Term Pain Management

While providing immediate relief is crucial, chiropractic care offers the potential for long-term pain management. 

Chiropractic care addresses the issue by targeting the root causes of neck pain and facilitating natural healing. This can lead to sustained relief and neck pain management over the long haul.

Chiropractic Techniques for Neck Pain

Effective chiropractic care for neck pain relies on a combination of specialized techniques designed to address the root causes of discomfort and promote natural healing. 

These techniques are performed with precision and expertise, ensuring the highest standard of care.

Spinal Adjustments and Manipulations

Spinal adjustments and manipulations are at the core of chiropractic care for neck pain. These techniques involve the skilled application of controlled force to specific spine areas. 

By doing so, chiropractors aim to correct misalignments, reduce pressure on nerves, and restore proper spinal function. Spinal adjustments and manipulations effectively alleviate neck pain and improve overall mobility.

Soft Tissue Therapies and Exercises

In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors often incorporate soft tissue therapies and exercises into treatment plans. 

These therapies may include massage, stretching, and strengthening exercises tailored to the individual's needs. 

Soft tissue therapies help alleviate muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and enhance flexibility, contributing to pain relief and improved musculoskeletal health.

Recommendations for Lifestyle Modifications

Chiropractic care extends beyond in-office treatments. Chiropractors provide valuable guidance on lifestyle modifications supporting long-term neck pain management. 

This may involve recommendations for improved ergonomics, posture correction, exercise routines, and nutritional advice. 

By addressing the factors contributing to neck pain in daily life, chiropractors empower patients to participate in their healing process actively.

Safety and Risks of Chiropractic Care for Neck Pain

Chiropractic care for neck pain is generally recognized as safe and effective. However, as with any healthcare approach, it is essential to be aware of potential risks and contraindications associated with these treatments.

While rare, there are potential risks associated with chiropractic care for neck pain. These risks include soreness or discomfort after treatment, mild headaches, or fatigue. 

More severe issues, such as herniated discs or strokes, have been reported in exceedingly rare cases. However, the direct link between these issues and chiropractic care remains controversial.

It is crucial to understand that the risks associated with chiropractic care are minimal, especially when provided by qualified and experienced professionals. Chiropractors undergo extensive training to ensure the safe application of techniques. 

Furthermore, they perform thorough assessments to identify contraindications, such as pre-existing medical conditions or recent injuries, which might make chiropractic care less suitable.

One of the most effective ways to minimize risks and ensure the safety of chiropractic care is to seek treatment from qualified professionals. 

Licensed chiropractors have undergone rigorous training and are equipped with the expertise to provide safe and effective care. 

They are also well-versed in recognizing when a patient may not be an ideal candidate for chiropractic treatment and can refer them to other healthcare professionals when necessary.

Integrating Chiropractic Care with Other Treatment Approaches

In pursuing comprehensive and effective treatment for neck pain, an approach that integrates chiropractic care with other medical disciplines holds significant promise. 

This collaborative model, often called multidisciplinary care, harnesses the strengths of various healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes.

Collaborative Approach with Medical Doctors

Chiropractic care and conventional medical treatments need not be mutually exclusive; they can complement each other remarkably well. 

Many patients benefit from consulting a chiropractor and a medical doctor for their neck pain. Medical doctors can offer diagnostic expertise, prescribe medication when necessary, and provide referrals for imaging studies or surgical consultations. 

On the other hand, chiropractors specialize in addressing the musculoskeletal aspects of neck pain, offering treatments such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and lifestyle recommendations.

This collaborative approach ensures patients receive a well-rounded assessment and access to a spectrum of treatments tailored to their needs. 

Moreover, open lines of communication between chiropractors and medical doctors facilitate a holistic understanding of the patient's condition, leading to more informed and effective care decisions.

Discussing the Benefits of Multidisciplinary Care

The benefits of integrating chiropractic care with other treatment approaches, such as medical care, are manifold:

1. It provides patients with a broader range of treatment options, allowing for a customized, more effective care plan.

2. It ensures that all aspects of the patient's health are considered, including potential underlying medical conditions that may contribute to neck pain.

3. This collaborative model can enhance the overall quality of care as it leverages the expertise of multiple healthcare professionals working in synergy.

By embracing a multidisciplinary approach, patients with neck pain can enjoy the advantages of a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the full spectrum of their needs. 

It embodies a patient-centric philosophy that prioritizes well-being and recovery, making it a compelling strategy in the journey toward relief from neck pain.

Tips for Finding a Reliable Chiropractor

When seeking a chiropractor for neck pain, it's crucial to identify a qualified and trustworthy healthcare professional, such as Jeranek Chiropractic, who can provide adequate care. Here are some valuable tips to guide your search:

Qualifications and Credentials to Look For

• Licensing: Ensure the chiropractor is licensed in your state or country. Licensing indicates that they have met the necessary educational and training requirements.

• Experience: Inquire about the chiropractor's experience, especially in treating neck pain. More experience often translates to greater expertise in addressing specific conditions.

• Credentials: Look for chiropractors who are members of reputable chiropractic associations. These organizations typically require adherence to high professional standards.

• Patient Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous patients to gauge the chiropractor's reputation and patient satisfaction.

Recommendations for Finding a Chiropractor Specialized in Neck Pain

• Referrals: Seek referrals from your primary care physician or other healthcare professionals. They can often recommend chiropractors with expertise in treating neck pain.

• Ask for Specialization: When contacting potential chiropractors, ask about their experience and specialization in neck pain treatment. Inquire about their success rates and treatment approaches for this specific condition.

• Initial Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation to discuss your condition with the chiropractor. Use this opportunity to assess their knowledge, communication skills, and whether they listen to your concerns.

Seek Reliable Experts For Your Neck Pain

Chiropractic care for neck pain is a reliable and effective approach to relieving this often debilitating condition. 

Its non-invasive nature, focus on addressing root causes, and potential for long-term pain management make it a compelling choice for those seeking wellness.

We encourage anyone experiencing neck pain to seek professional evaluation and consider the benefits of chiropractic care as part of their treatment options. 

Whether it's through spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, or lifestyle modifications, chiropractors are dedicated to improving your neck pain and overall quality of life.

Ready to live pain-free and achieve optimal well-being? Schedule your appointment today, and let us help you reach your health goals. 

Whether you're seeking relief from discomfort, improved mobility, or overall wellness, our experienced team is here. Discover the benefits of chiropractic care and join our family of satisfied patients. 

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Semiconductor Laser Treatment Instrument. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.