If you “sleep the wrong way”, it is possible that you may wake up with a stiff neck. Neck pain can also occur if you have worked long hours or have had a busy day. Neck pain is easily recognizable because you will feel discomfort or pain if you turn your head from one side to the other. However, there is a difference in having a stiff neck and experiencing pain so severe it makes it difficult to go about your daily routine. When the pain becomes unbearable, you may want to consider chiropractic neck pain treatment.
When Should You Visit A Chiropractor For Neck Pain Relief?
There are several home treatments that you can try to see if the pain is eliminated before scheduling an appointment with a chiropractor. One of the first things that you can try is cold therapy. Cold can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Use an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel and apply it to your neck for at least 20 minutes before removing the ice pack. You can then wait 40 minutes before reapplying the ice pack.
Another option for relieving neck pain is changing the type of pillow you sleep on. Sleep on a firm pillow and be sure to sleep on your side or your back. A flat pillow will force the neck to bend in a position that is unnatural.
When Should You Get Chiropractic Neck Pain Treatment?
Although there are several treatments you can try at home to relieve neck pain, it is important that you realize when it is time to schedule an appointment with a chiropractor.
Chiropractors specialize in providing treating all types of pain including neck pain. After taking a physical exam and diagnostic tests such as x-rays, a chiropractor can help restore normal motion to your stiff neck by creating a treatment plan that can include spinal adjustments and specific exercises for the neck.
You should schedule an appointment if:
- The pain or stiffness has not improved after a few days
- You feel dependent on using over the counter medication in order to make it through the day
- The neck pain begins after you have been in a car accident
- You cannot look to either side without feeling severe pain
Neck pain can be prevented by maintaining good posture whenever you are standing or sitting. However, do not hesitate to get chiropractic neck pain treatment if the pain does not go away on its own in a few days.
Contact our office to schedule an appointment or speak with one of our representatives.