If medications do not relieve your neck pain, your doctor can suggest therapeutic injections. Cortisone injections reduce swelling in strained neck muscles and relieve pressure on pinched nerves. However, the injections only give short-term relief and are paired with rest and medication for maximum effectiveness.
Top 5 Ways to Reduce Neck Pain
The Advanced Physicians Team • October 15, 2021
Top 5 Ways to Reduce Neck Pain
Poor posture, injury from a fall or accident, physical ailments, and overuse can cause mild or severe neck pain. If you deal with persistent neck pain, you may find that heating pads, medication, and other conventional treatments do not offer long-term relief. In this case, explore alternative methods to treat neck pain, such as physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic. The top ways to reduce neck pain include:
1. OTC or Prescription Pain Relievers
Most people reach for over-the-counter medications to deal with neck pain. However, pain killers like Tylenol do not treat the inflammation caused by arthritis and muscle strain.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen and ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and pain, but you need to use them carefully. NSAIDs have serious effects, and it is best to take them under a doctor's caution. A physician can also recommend muscle relaxants to relieve neck pain resulting from muscle spasms.
2. Cortisone Injections
3. Ice and Heat Compresses
Neck pain can curtail your range of motion and make it difficult to complete daily tasks. In some cases, ice or heat brings quick relief and enables you to resume your daily activities. Ice effectively reduces inflammation, and you should use it in the first 24/48 hours after injury.
On the other hand, heat loosens tense muscles and is suitable for the days you wake up with a stiff day. Apply heat for about 20 minutes to also increase your range of motion.
4. Correct Poor Posture
Poor posture strains neck muscles and misaligns the spine, particularly when you spend much time sitting at a computer. If you tend to slouch when seated, try sitting up straight with your feet on the floor. Then, adjust the chair height to keep your hips at level with your feet. Also, use a chair with lumbar support to keep your spine in alignment. Set your computer screen directly in front of you with your elbows bent at a 90-degree angle on the desk.
You should also practice correct posture when you sleep to avoid muscle strains. Set a pillow between or underneath the legs when lying on your side, and avoid sleeping on your stomach.
5. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy reduces neck pain, stiffness and improves neck range of motion. By improving your neck’s strength, a physical therapist prevents recurring pain and returns your neck to normal function after an accident.
Your therapist will customize a treatment plan that includes strengthening exercises, massage therapy, traction, and cold and hot therapies. The physical therapist may also help you correct your posture via a lumbar support roll. The neck stretches and exercises performed during physical therapy reduce pain and prepare your body to resume normal activities.
Chiropractic Care for Neck Pain
At Advanced Physicians, we receive many patients with neck pain that does not respond to medication. Fortunately, most patients find relief from chiropractic adjustments.
Your neck features seven vertebrae and is supported by multiple ligaments and muscles. Neck pain is often caused by pinched nerves, strains, muscle spasms, herniated discs, and worn joints. Chiropractic adjustments realign the vertebrae, reduce pressure on the nerves, and relax muscles.
A chiropractor also works on the neck’s joints to reduce stiffness and soreness and promote tissue healing after a traumatic incident. By improving spinal health, you can enjoy the improved function of the neck and back.
Ready for Neck Pain Relief?
At Advanced Physicians, our goal is to relieve your neck pain and discomfort without using medication. Our integrative approach to neck pain includes chiropractic care, massage therapy, physical therapy, and even advanced medical interventions.
Call us today to consult a licensed chiropractor.
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