As a chiropractor, I encounter patients with neck pain daily and utilize many techniques to get rid of pain. Neck pain in Knoxville TN can develop in patients due to many different causes so it is important to identify the source to provide the correct treatment. In most cases, neck pain stems from lack of normal motion in the cervical spine due to accidents, injuries, poor posture, and stress. Chiropractic adjustments are effective in restoring normal pain free range of motion in the cervical spine reducing neck pain.

What Causes Neck Pain in Knoxville TN?

Muscle compensations in the neck occur due to overuse of phones, computers, and poor posture from office work. These changes lead to forward head posture causing neck pain. Along with chiropractic adjustments, cervical traction equipment can be utilized to reduce forward head posture. Specific stretches and strengthening exercises can be implemented also. With forward head posture, our shoulders slump forward so it is important to stretch the pectoral muscles to allow the shoulders to return to their proper position. The pectoral muscles can be stretched by using a door frame to bring each arm back to a comfortable end range of motion. Hold this stretch for 30-45 seconds on each arm. Use sitting row exercises to pull the arms back using therabands. This exercise strengthens the weakened lower trapezius muscles. Also stretch the scalene muscles in the neck by bringing the hand to the top of the head and pull the head to each side for a 30-45 second stretch.

More severe cases of neck pain can be caused by cervical disc herniations. This is often accompanied by numbness/tingling symptoms in the arms and hands. I recommend using the Saunders Cervical Traction device for relief. This device allows the neck to be braced while using a pump to provide decompression on the neck. This technique can provide localized neck pain relief as well as relief for the radiating pain in the arms and hands.

For more information on how chiropractic can help call the office at (865) 444-5994.