Back Clinic Neck Treatment Team. Dr. Alex Jimenezs collection of neck pain articles contain a selection of medical conditions and/or injuries regarding symptoms surrounding the cervical spine. The neck is made up of various complex structures; bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and other types of tissues. When these structures are damaged or injured as a result of improper posture, osteoarthritis, or even whiplash, among other complications, the pain and discomfort an individual experiences can be impairing. Through chiropractic care, Dr. Jimenez explains how the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations focuses on the cervical spine can greatly help relieve the painful symptoms associated with neck issues. For more information, please feel free to contact us at (915) 850-0900 or text to call Dr. Jimenez personally at (915) 540-8444.
Spinal traction, both mechanical and manual are treatment options that are based on the application of force to the axis of the spinal column. A region of the spinal column is pulled in opposite directions to stabilize or change the position of herniated, slipped, bulging, discs, and/or nerve injury/damage to the spine. Traction treatment is crucial to spinal adjustments, especially with disc or nerve compression.
It allows the chiropractor to alleviate any stress that could lead to disc problems like herniation, rupture, or displacement. However, traction is a general term. The concepts can apply to all forms of traction, but the application itself can be drastically different in terms of static positioning and inverse force.
Mechanical vs. Manual Cervical Traction
Mechanical force is typically applied through a series of weights or a fixation device and requires the patient to stay in bed or is placed in a halo vest. The techniques and methodologies can vary, but the objectives/results are the same.
The utilization is developed on a case-by-case basis and the chiropractor’s diagnosis/recommendations. Many chiropractors implement both mechanical and manual traction approaches. Choosing the right traction plan comes from a thorough examination, medical history, and understanding of each method’s strengths.
Traction approach
The difference between mechanical and manual traction is simple. Mechanical traction is directed by the use of machines, weights, and pulleys, while manual traction is performed by a professional chiropractor. With mechanical traction, an individual’s head is cradled into a sling, then positioned at the optimal position for the adjustment. The sling is counterweighted to hold the head/neck in that position, leveraging mechanical pressure and affecting change.
Manual traction has the individual lie down on a table, with the chiropractor pulling the head away from the neck to decompress the cervical spine. The adjustment/s can be a continuous pull, or a series of low-force pulls in different directions. Again these depend on the individual’s condition and nature of the adjustment.
Techniques and methodologies
Mechanical and manual traction can have similar results, but both offer different benefits based on the individual. Mechanical traction is a hands-free technique for decompression that allows chiropractors to focus on the patient’s needs when working on complex cases. This method is more applicable for severe cases, where the traction could last for 20-30 minutes.
Mechanical traction is helpful when teaching healthy posturing. Manual traction benefits come from the control that a chiropractor has over the technique. With the manual pulling, the chiropractor can increase or decrease the countering force. A hands-on approach enables chiropractors to feel the spinal adjustments, and understand the effects of the traction.
The proper form of traction
The overall ability of traction to decompress the spine makes it a valuable approach to treat various conditions. The exact nature of the condition determines whether mechanical or manual traction will be used along with the recommendation/treatment plan of the chiropractor. Injury Medical Chiropractic Clinic is committed to implementing the best approach for spinal correction for every patient. Mechanical and manual traction are just two adjustment modalities.
Body Composition Health
Resistance Training For Everyone
Even if not an athlete resistance training is important for functional fitness. Functional strength training attempts to emulate the physiological demands of real day-to-day activities. Traditional strength training focuses on specific muscle groups during the exercise, while functional training focuses on whole muscle groups to train the body for daily responsibilities.
Individuals might believe they are too old for resistance training. But research shows the benefits of improving an individual’s functional fitness level, specifically for older adults. Functional training resistance exercises and bodyweight movements can help the body become stronger, more flexible, more agile, and better equipped to handle day-to-day responsibilities. Plus, it can help with injury prevention.
Reference
Afzal, Rabia et al. �Comparison between Manual Traction, Manual Opening technique, and Combination in Patients with cervical radiculopathy: Randomized Control Trial.� JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association�vol. 69,9 (2019): 1237-1241.
Individuals with neck and back pain should consider adding a few pain-relieving therapeutic tools to the holiday wish list. Spine specialists/experts have some tools for their patients and others who are dealing with back and neck pain. Looking at various points, these therapeutic tools offer the gift of helping to reduce neck and back pain, when unable to see a chiropractor or physical therapist.
Foam Rollers
Foam rolling is effective for different types of aches and pains, especially backaches. Foam rolling benefits include:
Releasing muscle knots and tension
Reduces inflammation
Decreases pain
Improves range of motion
Returns flexibility
Wedge Pillow
A wedge pillow for the back is a necessity. A wedge pillow removes the stress from the spine and neck when lying down. Flipped around will take the tension off the legs also bringing back pain relief.
Deep Percussive Massager
Percussive massagers can provide a deep massage to various areas of the body especially the lower back. There are a variety of brands available with different levels of technology. However, careful use of these instruments must be exercised. This is because the massage can be intense and can exacerbate or cause further injury, and individuals can develop a tolerance making the massage no longer effective.
Seat Cushion
If sitting at a desk throughout the day or working from home a proper seat cushion is mandatory. Many individuals who sit the majority of their day utilize a combination cushion that includes the seat cushion with lower back support. Individual cushions are great because they can be moved easily and adjusted to fit where needed. Therapeutic seat cushions come with various features available, here are a few to keep in mind. Memory foam and air cells offer the most pressure relief. If there is tailbone pain, focus on a seat cushion with the tailbone cut out for extra relief. An office chair with these features should also be considered.
Inversion Table
Inversion tables are available at reasonable prices, starting around $100. Used correctly this therapeutic tool can successfully help relieve back pain. Inversion tables and cervical traction provide decompression and postural alignment for the spine helping with pain relief. These devices offer gentle decompression through the angle used. Wider angles or full inversion provides more decompression on the back. Individual spinal needs should be discussed with a chiropractor, physical therapist, or physician before using this therapeutic tool.
Pain Patches and Topical Agents
Pain-relieving patches like Lidocaine, IcyHot, and Salonpas patches are widely recommended for tight and sore areas of the body.
Sitting Standing Desk
A sitting and standing desk can be highly beneficial to back pain. In addition to burning off bonus calories throughout the day, Changing positions and postures throughout the day are recommended. This is to keep the muscles, ligaments, tendons moving, and not in a static position for too long. Changing every 20 to 30 minutes is the recommended time. Sitting and standing desks can provide positional changes that will help with posture, core stability, and circulation. This will help reduce and alleviate pain in the low back, neck, and shoulders. However, the desk needs to be stable and adjusted to the proper height.
Lower Back Sitting Support
These therapeutic tools help reinforce the low back region when seated. Most of us start to slouch forward with the head and shoulders hunched forward after some time at the computer. This strains the whole body, specifically the low back. Lower back supports can help maintain proper alignment of the spine when seated.
Knee, Thigh, Pelvis Pillow
These pillows have different names but are used in the same way. This is a pillow that can be placed between the legs while sleeping takes the pressure off the pelvis and spine. These types of pillows are great for individuals that sleep on their side. This is because the top leg often shifts down, leading to increased stress on the hips and low back. These pillows help keep the legs aligned during sleep relieving pressure on the low back.
How To Self-Care for Back Pain Books
There are a variety of books that offer tips, and therapies for self-care. These products are not a cure-all. They are intended to help in combination with proper treatment, especially for certain spinal conditions. If pain is limiting daily function, consult a chiropractor, physical therapist, or physician about using the above therapeutic tools.
Doctor of Chiropractic Near Me
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Furlan, Andrea D et al. �Massage for low-back pain.��The Cochrane database of systematic reviews,9 CD001929. 1 Sep. 2015, doi:10.1002/14651858.CD001929.pub3
We all have our hobbies that we are passionate about, love doing, and could see turning into a second career. However, certain hobbies can generate stress on the spine. This often leads to a decrease in being able to participate in these activities, which can lead to various health issues. Maintaining the body’s physical fitness and keeping the spine healthy is key to being able to continue without neck or back pain. Hobbies are an important part of life. Individuals need to enjoy what they love from sports activities to music to arts and craft projects. Having activities/hobbies help:
Boost mental health
Relieve stress
Lower blood pressure
Promotes weight loss
Meditative qualities
Here�s how to make sure the hobbies/activities are fun and safe.
Protecting the Neck
Poor posture is one of the leading causes of neck and back pain. Looking down or being in a standing/sitting hunched position regularly increases the load/stress on the neck increasing the chances for strain, injury, headaches, and chronic pain. In the neutral position, the skull weighs around 10-12 pounds.
When leaning the head forward weight increases from let’s say 27 pounds at a 15-degree angle to 60 pounds at a 60-degree angle. The strain on the cervical vertebrae, joints, and muscles can be immense. A good example is text-neck. This has become a normal thing when using a smartphone, gaming, or other similar activities.
Studies suggest that the average individual spends three to five hours a day on a smartphone or tablet. This means three to five hours of extra weight on the cervical spine. Engaging in a hobby that requires an individual to look down constantly in a similar fashion can lead to serious and chronic neck pain along with other cervical issues.
Individuals are spending more time at home and getting more serious about their hobbies. This is fantastic, however, these individuals need to take time to stretch out, and get some physical activity into their hobby routine. Just like taking frequent walk-around, stretch out at work breaks, so to do hobbyists need to step back from their projects to keep a healthy balance. The position of the neck and the way it is held for activities like:
Sewing
Carpentry
Gardening
Painting
Pottery
Knitting
Music
Hobbies like this can increase the risk of neck pain, so the key is prevention, paying attention to head posture every now and again, and taking stretching breaks.
Proper Posture Makes a Difference
Many individuals stand and sit when working on their hobbies. This is quite common and is encouraged when doing these absorbing activities. But being immersed in these activities, most forget to check their posture when doing so. This is what leads to problems that at first are shrugged off as just soreness.
Eventually, the individual begins to engage in bad/awkward posture habits that avoid the pain and think this will help. This worsens the problems and promotes further strain/injury. Leaning, bending, reaching, and twisting curves the spine increasing the load and stress. Performing these actions over and over for extended periods means:
Strain
Low back pain
Muscle spasms
Sciatica
Leg pain
Foot pain
Slouching is another posture problem that increases the likelihood of lower back pain. Slouching causes gaps between the lower back vertebrae. This stresses the facet joints or the connections between the vertebrae. The soft tissues elongate/stretch and lengthen like muscles and connective tissue. What elongation does is:
Cause the tissues to attempt to snap back to the original shape. This can cause painful spasms.
Muscles that are constantly elongated become weaker with time.
The longer an individual sits, stands, and slouches impacts the body’s health negatively, leading to a chain of health problems. Maintaining proper posture and keeping the spine straight minimizes the strain on muscles and the vertebrae. Prevent pain and discomfort.
Ergonomics at the House
Ergonomic stressors include:
The force/s required to perform and complete a physical chore/task.
Adopted static and awkward working postures to complete task/s
The repetitiveness of the task/s
Any of these factors or combination places a higher risk for discomfort, pain, and injury. The immediate surroundings like the bench, work area, craft room, etc. and how the individual moves or does not move, and interacts in these areas is the focus of ergonomics. Proper ergonomics will help protect the spine, as well as the rest of the body. Improper ergonomics can cause damage like muscle strain, repetitive movements, and incorrect posture. Taking a look at the hobby workspace the ergonomics, and making any necessary adjustments can help prevent strain/injury.
Proper seating
Make sure the right type of chair, stool, bench, etc is being utilized. Adjustable types that have neck and lower back support are the way to go. Make sure the base is stable, the seat is comfortable and adjustable. Backrests and armrests can help maintain proper posture.
Correct table/desk/workstation height
Various drafting tables and lap desks have adjustable surfaces to adjust the height for working with a proper ergonomic posture. If the work surface is not adjustable adjust the chair or make adjustments as needed. The hips should be higher than the knees to take the strain off the sacrum and lower back. The upper back should be straight, with the shoulder blades together creating a supportive platform for the neck and head.
Tools
Using the best tools for working and organization will help avoid injuries and constant awkward positions like leaning/reaching over and around the workspace. Look for tools that can be adjusted to different heights, resistance levels, etc. depending on what is needed and what will reduce any strain.
Vision
If an individual needs to lean in to get a closer look then vision could be the problem. If an individual wears glasses it could be time for a check-up. Or if an individual does not wear glasses, it could be time to see an optometrist. Non-prescription magnifiers could be the answer.
Stretching Regularly
Working too long in one position can be detrimental to overall health.
It is very understandable when individuals get into the zone, working on something creative, and not wanting to stop the flow. However, frequent breaks are vital. Stretching regularly and getting up to move around is key to staying healthy.
Neck Stretch
Stretch the neck by turning the head from side to side in a gentle fashion.
Tip the head to each side so the ear almost touches the shoulder.
Lower the head so that the chin almost touches the chest.
Turn the to look diagonally down at the armpit. This stretches the trapezius and levator scapulae muscles.
Hold the stretches for 10-15 seconds.
Always perform slowly and gently.
Lower Back Stretch
15 minutes a day of stretches will maintain the health of the spine. If pain or discomfort becomes frequent or unmanageable, seek professional help. Physical therapists and chiropractors are trained in orthopedic issues and ergonomics without prescription. Call a doctor or physical therapist to find out if treatment is necessary. Following these guidelines can help keep hobbies fun and without pain.
Lower Back Pain Skate Boarding Injury Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Acetaminophen, best known as Tylenol, is one of the most common medications for headaches and general pain. More than likely the most common back, neck, and overall pain medication around. However, it is only a pain reducer, and will not reduce inflammation.
Doctors often recommend this medicine before moving on to prescription medication. A member of the analgesic pain reliever class of medications. These can vary in strength along with side effects, but their purpose is to reduce pain. Acetaminophen can be found in over 600 prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines, including certain opioids. Other acetaminophen brand names include:
Tylophen
Tempra
FeverAll
Mapap
Pharbetol
Panadol
Strength and Weakness
When neck or back pain presents, over-the-counter medicines fall into two categories. These are acetaminophen or non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs also known as NSAIDs. Acetaminophen and NSAIDs like Advil, aspirin both relieve pain. However, non-steroid anti-inflammatories also help in reducing inflammation. Although non-steroid anti-inflammatories have this added benefit, they can also present potential side effects like stomach and gastrointestinal problems.A spinal sprain or strain can cause acute back pain. Acetaminophen is typically recommended for acute back or neck pain and for pain that comes and goes quickly. Individuals that experience periodic pain usually take acetaminophen when the pain flares up. Individuals with chronic spinal pain report acetaminophen help to alleviate/reduce the pain. Many with chronic pain use acetaminophen regularly and not only when the pain presents. This helps manage before pain strikes.
Safety
Acetaminophen is gentle on the stomach, making some individuals preferring it over the non-steroid anti-inflammatories. But just like any other medication acetaminophen has its risks and can cause severe damage if used improperly.
Taking acetaminophen in large doses can cause severe liver damage. The Food and Drug Administration reports that acetaminophen overdoses send over fifty-thousand individuals to the emergency room every year. And over one-hundred Americans die yearly from accidental overdoses.
Using acetaminophen safely means taking no more than 3,000 milligrams a day and no more than 1,000 milligrams at a time. Take extra precautions when taking extra-strength. These can include as much as 650 mg per pill/capsule.Before taking acetaminophen for back and neck pain, talk to a doctor or pharmacist about the proper dosage. And tell the doctor about all the medications being taken including natural herbs and holistic. Another reason for telling the doctor is that many other medications have acetaminophen included without you knowing it. Part of the discussion should include alcohol consumption. This can elevate the risk of negative reactions.
Resources
If non-pharmacological treatments/therapies done for at least 4 months prove ineffective then an acetaminophen regimen could be a safe and effective part of a back and neck pain treatment plan. While this medicine is one of the most common treatments, it is not without risks and side effects. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist about all the medications and supplements to ensure the regimen supports health for the long-term. To learn more along with safety information go to Acetaminophen Patient Guide.
Severe Back Pain Chiropractic Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Radiofrequency ablation, also known as RFA is a minimally invasive procedure performed in an outpatient clinic to treat neck, back, facet joints, and sacroiliac joint pain. It involves the use of radio waves pulsing at a high frequency that temporarily disable the nerves from transmitting pain signals to the brain. Relief can last three to six months. Radiofrequency ablation treatment could be an option to manage chronic back and neck pain. There are other names, but the radio frequency concept is the same. They are:
Chronic neck, back, and hip pain take a significant toll on the body. Finding the right treatment can make all the difference. However, it does not work for everyone. For those that might have tried other non-surgical treatments to manage the pain, including physical therapy and steroid injections, that did not bring relief then radiofrequency ablation could be another treatment option.
Radiofrequency Ablation Benefits
Pain relief compared to steroid injections lasts longer
Relief exceeds that of injections
It is a non-surgical procedure
Complication risks are low
Opioid or other analgesic medication is reduced
Quick recovery
Improved quality of life
Relief can last six months to a year, and longer
Pain Reduction
Before undergoing radiofrequency ablation, a doctor must pinpoint the nerves causing the neck, back, or sacroiliac joint pain. They will perform a nerve block injection to determine if there is temporary relief from the pain. If there is temporary relief it means that the origin of the pain was found. This could qualify to become a candidate for radiofrequency ablation.
A Medial branch block is performed to diagnose the facet joint/s that are causing the pain.
Asacroiliac joint block is performed to determine if and which sacroiliac joint is causing the pain.
Preparation
The doctor will give instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. Instructions can vary from those listed, as every patient’s case is unique.
Do not eat 6 hours prior to your procedure
Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Easy to put on shoes
Have a designated driver for after the procedure
Make sure the doctor knows about all medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbs being taken
Follow the doctor�s instructions when taking prescribed and over-the-counter medications. This includes vitamins, supplements, and herbs
Bring all medications on the day of the procedure to be taken with minimal interruption
Radiofrequency ablation usually takes an hour or longer depending on the extent of the treatment. One example could be the number of facet joints being treated.
The Procedure
The patient will be positioned face down on the treatment table. Pillows are offered and positioned for optimal comfort. The area where the treatment will be administered is sterilized. The areas of the body not undergoing the treatment are covered with a sterile covering. Sedation could be utilized but not heavy sedation. More than likely it will be what is known as twilight sedation.
A local anesthetic is injected into and around the area/s being treated. Because radiofrequency ablation involves electricity a grounding pad is attached to the calf of one of the legs. The treatment table is adjusted for the precise placement of the needles and electrodes. The doctor will use fluoroscopy or a real-time x-ray as a guide.
Once the needle/s and electrode/s placement is confirmed, a low electrical current is sent through the electrodes. This creates waves of pulsating energy that stimulate and change the nerve/s sensory tissue so it does not send pain signals. Some individuals report a warm or mild pulsing sensation. When finished, the electrodes and needles are removed. The treated area is cleaned up, sterilized and bandages are applied.
After the Procedure
After the procedure, the patient is sent home with a set of recovery instructions. An example could be:
Keep the bandages in place
Don’t take a bath or shower
A shower can be taken the following day and the bandages removed
Do not perform any strenuous activity for up to two days
When the anesthetic wears off, the individual will have soreness and some mild pain around the treatment area. As long as everything is fine individuals can return to work and normal routine within three days. Full recovery can take up to two weeks for the treated/ablated nerves to stop sending pain signals. Although the nerves no longer conduct pain, it is temporary and not a permanent fix. This is because the nerves grow back. If the cycle starts over, talk with the doctor about another session.
Peripheral Neuropathy Relief & Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Using a neck brace or collar can be part of a treatment option for individuals dealing with a neck injury, pain, and recovery. Cervical-neck spinal conditions can go from mild to debilitating if left untreated and could progress to chronic pain. Whiplash and abnormal cervical lordosis, which is an unnatural curvature of the spine, can happen from looking down at a phone too long, known as text-neck. These are common but different neck disorders that can be helped with a neck brace.
Being prescribed a neck brace depends on the severity of the pain symptoms. Does it present with or without upper back pain, radiate into the shoulders, cause headaches/migraine? These details will help a doctor or chiropractor figure out the best treatment option. If the patient can benefit then a neck brace, also called a cervical collar or cervical orthosis could be used.
Neck Brace
Fortunately, spinal surgery is rarely necessary. There are plenty of non-surgical treatment options that can help manage and reduce neck pain. A neck brace or collar could be part of a treatment plan that includes:
Chiropractic
Physical therapy
Massage
Acupuncture
Medications – over-the-counter and prescription if necessary
The treatment plan will be based on the outcome of:
Physical examination
Neurological examination
X-rays
Other imaging tests
Severity of symptoms
These combined will confirm a diagnosis with the treatment focusing on:
Neck stabilization
Pain management
Advanced healing
Early mobilization
Brace Basics
There are a variety of soft and rigid neck braces available to help manage different cervical spine conditions. The type of brace prescribed is based on the diagnosis and treatment plan. Soft neck braces are flexible and offer the greatest range of motion. Rigid collars are for stricter immobilization/stabilization.
Stabilization refers to immobilizing the head and neck. Limiting or preventing motion helps to support the head while reducing weight from the cervical spine. Two of the most common neck pain disorders are whiplash and poor posture.
Soft Collar
Whiplash is a hyperflexion and hyperextension neck injury. It is caused when the neck quickly, forcefully and swiftly whips forward and backward. Whiplash injuries most commonly happen from auto accidents, work, personal, and sports injuries.
Whiplash symptoms are considered sprains and strains. This is when ligaments, in this case, those of the neck, and the muscles are stretched or torn. These include:
Neck pain
Stiffness
Muscle spasms
Headaches that start in the neck
However, all of the symptoms can radiate into the head and upper back. This is where a doctor could recommend a soft cervical collar as part of a treatment plan. This could be in conjunction with muscle relaxants and physical therapy. Soft collars provide neck support to help reduce soft tissue inflammation and the pain forty-eight to seventy-two hours after the injury.
Soft neck braces are usually made of foam and covered with cotton or other easily washable, comfortable wearable material. The brace wraps around the neck and is secured with Velcro straps. Be aware that over-using a neck brace can happen. A doctor will explain further and will prescribe/encourage performing daily motion exercises, and stretching exercises, as soon as the patient is able after a whiplash injury.
Rigid Collar
Lordosis means the normal forward curve in the neck. However, the normal curve can change negatively with time when the head regularly bends forward past the shoulders. An example is looking down at your phone. Most of us spend hours a day looking down at a phone pad, etc. This causes significant strain on the neck. The human head weighs around 12 pounds. This weight increases to about 60 pounds when the head and neck are extended forward and bent down.
A constantly increased load on the spine can lead to massive stress to the bones, ligaments, and muscles with the potential change in the normal curve and chronic neck pain. Text neck is another spinal disorder that a neck brace can help treat. Depending on the severity of the pain and injury a rigid neck brace or collar could be used.
All neck braces offer some degree of head and neck support. Another type of rigid neck brace has adjustable features that were developed to treat forward head posture caused by poor posture. This brace is called the Cervigard Forward Head Posture Neck Collar. It supports while correcting the alignment of the head and neck. Regular use can gradually restore the normal curvature by correcting head and neck posture.
Doctors recommend the brace be worn for 20 minutes a day or several hours, depending on the severity of pain and injury. The process of correcting the deformation can be compared to straightening teeth with braces, aligners, etc. This retrains the muscles and corrects the abnormal soft tissue tightness that develops from the condition.
Instructions
If a doctor prescribes a brace, follow their instructions for how to wear the neck brace. This will ensure the pain reduces and alleviates, while at the same time reducing the risk of the negative effects of overuse. Ask the doctor or chiropractor how to care for the brace.
Neck & Low Back Pain Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Being attached to a smartphone and looking down for a long can cause phone neck pain. We are all constantly connected to our family, friends, work, etc. When we keep our head down, shoulders hunched forward, neck straining from the uncomfortable angle for a long time a neck injury can develop. This has to do with knowing how to maintain proper posture while using a smartphone.
Most of us know this syndrome as tech neck, text neck, and is caused by straining the neck too far down and forward while talking/texting, etc. Holding this position for too long will cause neck muscle strain and pain. This also occurs with handheld devices with users hunching their shoulders forward. The awkward neck angel and rounded shoulders strain the entire upper body.
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Phone Neck Pain Stretches/Tips
Here are a few tips along with some light stretches/exercises to keep the neck muscles flexible and loose.
Try to bring the phone to eye level.
Check around and look up from the screen every few minutes so as not to remain in a downward position.
Move the chin towards the chest, and hold for 5 seconds as there will be a comfortable stretch from the neck to the base of the skull to the mid-back. Try doing a few up to 10 times until you feel thoroughly stretched.
Side Bend
Tilt the head to the right, bringing the ear close to the shoulder. Use your hand to pull your head farther into the stretch if possible. Hold for 20 seconds. Bring the head back to the center, and tilt to the left, and hold for 20 seconds. Repeat this motion 3-5 times on each side.
Head Rotation
Rotate the chin towards the right shoulder and hold for 20 seconds. Use your hand to push your head farther into the stretch if possible. Bring the head back to the center, and rotate to the left, and hold for 20 seconds. Repeat this motion 3-5 times on each side.
Neck pain can turn into a full injury or condition if an individual continues with this form of very poor posture. Taking care of our bodies needs to be a priority. Make proper posture a habit and it will help prevent neck and back pain from developing. This along with related posture and biomechanical issues. Proper posture means the head is upright, the ears are in line with the shoulders, and the shoulder blades are down.
Neck Pain Chiropractic Care
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
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