Neck Injuries

Most of us will feel stiffness or pain in the neck at some point. Perhaps you have woke up after a poor night’s sleep with a telltale “kink.” The neck is vital to proper function. This part of the spine, called the cervical spine, is responsible for facilitating a wide variety of movements while supporting the head, which weighs about ten to twelve pounds. The cervical spine contains only seven vertebrae. These bones work in unison to support the head with necessary flexibility.

The neck is designed to absorb shock, but is still vulnerable to injury. This is partly due to biomechanics, which is affected by a number of factors. The neck may become sore or injured in an accident such as a fall or bump. Even more common is a neck injury caused by repetitive movement, wear and tear, and extended sitting.

Whiplash is one of the most recognized neck injuries. Most often, whiplash develops because of an auto accident. This injury occurs when the head or neck is suddenly forced in one direction and then “rebounds” quickly in the opposite direction. This whipping motion causes trauma to the tissues that support the neck and head, causing intense tightening and sometimes swelling that leads to stiffness and pain. In severe cases, whiplash may include damage to discs, intervertebral joints, and nerve roots.

Sometimes, neck pain has no clear injury. Several common factors can place excessive stress on the neck and its supporting tissues, including obesity, emotional stress, poor posture, and even weak abdominal muscles. It may seem a farfetched idea that the abdominals could affect the neck. However, studies have shown a direct correlation between weak abdominals and a forward-bent posture. This type of posture disrupts spinal balance and can lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms.

Chiropractors are devoted to conservative care with no surgery and no prescription drugs to mask pain or loosen muscles. At HealthSource Chiropractic & Progressive Rehab, patients from the Portland area, including Hillsboro and Beaverton, are first evaluated. Spinal adjustments are then discussed as a treatment option for aligning the spine. Depending on the extent of injury, we may recommend massage or physical therapy as an adjunct to gentle, precise adjustments of the cervical spine.

With chiropractic care for neck injuries, it is possible to regain optimal range of motion and a greater degree of comfort. Contact the Portland office of HealthSource Chiropractic & Progressive Rehab to have your neck injury evaluated.