Back Clinic Chiropractic Neck Pain Treatment Team. Dr. Alex Jimenez’s collection of neck pain articles cover an assortment of medical conditions and/or injuries pertaining to pain and other symptoms surrounding the cervical spine. The neck consists of various complex structures; bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and other 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 individual experiences can be debilitating.
Depending on the underlying cause, neck pain symptoms can take on many different forms. They include:
Pain when holding your head in one place for long periods of time
Inability to move your head freely
Muscle tightness
Muscle spasms
Headache
Frequent cracking and crunching
Numbness and nerve pain radiating from the neck down to the upper arm and hand
Through chiropractic care, Dr. Jimenez explains how the use of manual adjustments to 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.
Find essential information on whiplash, including signs, prevention tips, and recovery strategies for optimal health.
Introduction
An abrupt impact, whether from a vehicle accident, sports injury, or fall, may cause symptoms that start off as a small shock and progress to crippling pain and functional impairment. Whiplash is one such ailment that often lacks recognition due to its intricacy. Although it is often linked to rear-end crashes, whiplash is a complex injury that, if ignored, may have long-term consequences for the musculoskeletal system and cervical spine. Have you had shoulder and neck stiffness before? Do you have persistent, chronic headaches? Or does it seem like your neck’s range of motion is limited? We’ll talk about whiplash’s frequent origins, symptoms, effects on the cervical spine and musculoskeletal system, and evidence-based therapy options to lessen the pain-like symptoms in today’s post.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash is a type of neck injury associated with a rapid back-and-forth head-and-neck motion, mimicking the crack of a whip, hence the name. This causes persistent physical complaints and disability, and complaints when left untreated. (Mayou & Radanov, 1996) Medically, it is categorized under cervical acceleration-deceleration (CAD) injuries. This abrupt motion can damage muscles, ligaments, intervertebral discs, and even the neural structures of the cervical spine.
Common Causes Of Whiplash
While motor vehicle accidents are the most recognized cause, many mechanisms can precipitate a whiplash injury:
Even minor collisions at speeds as low as 5–10 mph can produce enough force to cause whiplash symptoms in vulnerable individuals.
Symptoms of Whiplash
When individuals are experiencing whiplash, the symptoms can appear immediately or may be delayed for 24–72 hours post-injury. Additionally, whiplash injuries are considered soft tissue injuries to the neck with various clinical symptoms that vary in severity and may include: (Chen et al., 2009)
Neck pain and stiffness
Reduced range of motion
Shoulder and upper back pain
Headaches, especially originating at the base of the skull
Jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
Dizziness or visual disturbances
Tingling or numbness sensations in the arms (cervical radiculopathy)
Fatigue and cognitive issues (“whiplash-associated disorders” or WAD)
How Whiplash Affects the Cervical Spine and Musculoskeletal System
Whiplash is more than just a soft tissue injury, as it impacts several interconnected systems:
1. Cervical Spine
The rapid motion during a whiplash injury can lead to:
Cervical facet joint irritation
Intervertebral disc compression or herniation
Muscle strain or ligamentous sprain
Altered cervical lordosis, leading to chronic postural imbalances
This causes pain, stiffness, and tenderness in the neck area due to injuries within the bony, muscular, and ligamentous regions. (Alektoroff & Papanagiotou, 2021)
2. Musculoskeletal Dysfunction
Whiplash often initiates a cascade of biomechanical issues:
Myofascial pain syndromes, especially in the trapezius, levator scapulae, and sternocleidomastoid muscles
Compensatory thoracic or lumbar strain
Poor proprioception and neuromuscular control
Chronic trigger points and fibrotic tissue development
The longer these musculoskeletal imbalances persist, the more likely they will evolve into chronic pain syndromes and central sensitization.
Why Choose Chiropractic?-Video
Diagnosing Whiplash
Diagnosis is largely clinical, supported by a thorough history and physical exam. Imaging may be required to rule out more severe pathology:
X-rays: To rule out fractures or malalignment
MRI: For soft tissue or disc pathology
CT scans: If fracture or serious trauma is suspected
Functional assessments: Range of motion, palpation, neurologic evaluation
Evidence-Based Treatments for Whiplash
Treatment for whiplash should be multimodal and individualized, focusing on restoring function, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing. (Bussieres et al., 2016)
1. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic adjustments can offer significant benefits in managing whiplash-associated disorders:
Myofascial release and soft tissue mobilization: Target muscle tension, trigger points, and fascial restrictions.
Postural retraining and ergonomic correction: Essential for long-term resolution.
Additionally, chiropractic patients experienced significant improvements in neck pain and function.
2. Physical Therapy
Individuals dealing with neck pain associated with whiplash can benefit from physical therapy to improve neck pain and disability. (Chrcanovic et al., 2022) Rehabilitative exercises are fundamental:
Neck range-of-motion drills
Isometric strengthening
Scapular stabilization and postural correction
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF)
3. Functional Medicine Approach
From a functional medicine standpoint, addressing systemic inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, and stress response can enhance recovery:
Magnesium and B-complex supplementation for nerve healing
Sleep optimization and cortisol balance
4. Other Complementary Treatments
Acupuncture: Improves blood flow and pain modulation while alleviating pain and promoting relaxation. (Moon et al., 2014)
Gua Sha or cupping therapy: Relieves muscular tension
Dry needling: Effective for persistent trigger points
Manual lymphatic drainage: For patients experiencing edema or prolonged inflammation
Recovery and Prognosis
With consistent and proper treatment, many individuals recover within a few weeks. However, approximately 30–50% of individuals may develop chronic symptoms if not properly managed early on. Factors predicting prolonged recovery include:
High initial pain intensity
Poor coping mechanisms
History of prior neck injury
Psychosocial stressors
Early intervention using a holistic, integrative care model offers the best outcomes in preventing chronic whiplash-associated disorders.
Final Thoughts
Beyond the common “neck strain” classification, whiplash is a complicated neuromusculoskeletal injury that requires careful consideration by both patients and medical experts. Accurate diagnosis and successful treatment depend on an understanding of the complex effects on the cervical spine, neurology, and musculoskeletal function. Reducing symptoms and improving quality of life may be achieved by combining non-surgical treatments as part of a personalized treatment strategy.
Injury Medical & Personal Injury Clinic
We associate certified medical providers who understand the importance of assessing individuals with whiplash associated with their necks. When asking important questions to our associated medical providers, we advise patients to incorporate customized treatment plans for their pain associated with whiplash. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., uses this information as an academic service. Disclaimer
References
Alektoroff, K., & Papanagiotou, P. (2021). [Whiplash injury of the cervical spine]. Radiologe, 61(8), 710-713. doi.org/10.1007/s00117-021-00877-5 (Schleudertrauma der Halswirbelsaule.)
Bussieres, A. E., Stewart, G., Al-Zoubi, F., Decina, P., Descarreaux, M., Hayden, J., Hendrickson, B., Hincapie, C., Page, I., Passmore, S., Srbely, J., Stupar, M., Weisberg, J., & Ornelas, J. (2016). The Treatment of Neck Pain-Associated Disorders and Whiplash-Associated Disorders: A Clinical Practice Guideline. J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 39(8), 523-564 e527. doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2016.08.007
Chen, H. B., Yang, K. H., & Wang, Z. G. (2009). Biomechanics of whiplash injury. Chin J Traumatol, 12(5), 305-314. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19788851
Chrcanovic, B., Larsson, J., Malmstrom, E. M., Westergren, H., & Haggman-Henrikson, B. (2022). Exercise therapy for whiplash-associated disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Scand J Pain, 22(2), 232-261. doi.org/10.1515/sjpain-2021-0064
Moon, T. W., Posadzki, P., Choi, T. Y., Park, T. Y., Kim, H. J., Lee, M. S., & Ernst, E. (2014). Acupuncture for treating whiplash associated disorder: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med, 2014, 870271. doi.org/10.1155/2014/870271
Can choosing the right pillow help many individuals with neck pain get a full night’s sleep and reduce pain-like symptoms?
The Effects Of Neck Pain
How often do you feel stiffness in your neck and shoulders after being hunched for an extended period? Does it hurt when turning your neck from side to side? Or have you been suffering from constant headaches or migraines that are making you have a hard time falling asleep? As the second most common musculoskeletal condition, neck pain is a multifactorial disease developed through various risk factors that can impact a person. (Kazeminasab et al., 2022) The multiple muscles surrounding the neck are constantly overstretched and tight, which can cause pain and discomfort to the upper extremities due to environmental factors. Some environmental factors can range from improper posture to injuries that can affect the neck. When many people are experiencing neck pain associated with environmental factors, it can cause considerable personal pain and discomfort, disability, impaired quality of life, and, for adults, loss of time from work. (Ben Ayed et al., 2019) At the same time, when people experience neck pain, they can develop disruptive sleeping habits. We associate with certified medical providers who inform our patients of the effects of neck pain and how it can disrupt their sleeping habits. While asking important questions to our associated medical providers, we advise patients to incorporate various techniques to reduce neck pain and find ways to stay asleep longer. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., envisions this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
How Neck Pain Disrupts Sleep
Now, many people wonder how neck pain is associated with sleep. Environmental stressors like chronic stress from the workplace or natural disasters can cause a person to have tense neck muscles and can increase sleep disturbances. (Yabe et al., 2022) When environmental stressors impact the body, the musculoskeletal system becomes tight and tense in different body areas. In the neck, the muscles that surround the cervical can become tense and develop trigger points in muscle tissue, causing referred pain and discomfort. When neck pain causes disruptive sleep problems, it can cause impairment to the multifunctional protective role of sleep via physiological homeostasis and restoration. (Van Looveren et al., 2021) At the same time, some of the pain-like symptoms that can be increased with neck pain associated with disruptive sleep include: (Chin et al., 2021)
Soreness
Pain
Numbness
Difficulty in movement
However, there are ways to reduce the effects of neck pain and get a full night’s sleep, starting with the bedroom.
Low Back & Neck Pain Rehabilitation-Video
Choosing The Right Pillow For Neck Pain
Now, when it comes to getting a full night’s sleep, it is important to find the right mattress to stay asleep as well as feel refreshed. However, as important as it is to sleep in the right mattress when dealing with neck pain, finding the right pillow can do wonders for the neck and help people get enough sleep. When it comes to finding the right pillow, the individual needs to find a pillow with an appropriate height that can provide adequate support for the head and neck to reduce cervical spinal stress and relax the surrounding neck and shoulder muscles. (Lei et al., 2021) This is because when it comes to quality sleep, many people prefer sleeping positions, pillows, and mattresses aimed at comfort. Many pillows have a variety of materials that can help aid in comfort and help reduce neck pain. Some of the types of pillows include:
Memory foam
Polyfilled pillows
Down Pillow
Latex
Combo style
Finding the right pillow for neck pain allows the individual to have their neck fully supported while having the pillow in a lateral position to reduce neck fatigue and improve sleep quality (Son et al., 2020). By doing so, many people can finally get a good night’s sleep and wake up feeling better. By choosing the right pillow, many people will begin to be more mindful of their bodies and make small changes to their routine while getting the sleep they deserve.
References
Ben Ayed, H., Yaich, S., Trigui, M., Ben Hmida, M., Ben Jemaa, M., Ammar, A., Jedidi, J., Karray, R., Feki, H., Mejdoub, Y., Kassis, M., & Damak, J. (2019). Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcomes of Neck, Shoulders and Low-Back Pain in Secondary-School Children. J Res Health Sci, 19(1), e00440. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31133629
Chin, W. S., Chen, Y. C., Lin, T. T., Guo, Y. L., & Shiao, J. S. C. (2021). Short sleep and chronic neck and shoulder discomfort in nurses. J Occup Health, 63(1), e12236. doi.org/10.1002/1348-9585.12236
Kazeminasab, S., Nejadghaderi, S. A., Amiri, P., Pourfathi, H., Araj-Khodaei, M., Sullman, M. J. M., Kolahi, A. A., & Safiri, S. (2022). Neck pain: global epidemiology, trends and risk factors. BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 23(1), 26. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-021-04957-4
Lei, J. X., Yang, P. F., Yang, A. L., Gong, Y. F., Shang, P., & Yuan, X. C. (2021). Ergonomic Consideration in Pillow Height Determinants and Evaluation. Healthcare (Basel), 9(10). doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9101333
Son, J., Jung, S., Song, H., Kim, J., Bang, S., & Bahn, S. (2020). A Survey of Koreans on Sleep Habits and Sleeping Symptoms Relating to Pillow Comfort and Support. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 17(1). doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17010302
Van Looveren, E., Bilterys, T., Munneke, W., Cagnie, B., Ickmans, K., Mairesse, O., Malfliet, A., De Baets, L., Nijs, J., Goubert, D., Danneels, L., Moens, M., & Meeus, M. (2021). The Association between Sleep and Chronic Spinal Pain: A Systematic Review from the Last Decade. J Clin Med, 10(17). doi.org/10.3390/jcm10173836
Yabe, Y., Hagiwara, Y., Sekiguchi, T., Sugawara, Y., Tsuchiya, M., Yoshida, S., & Tsuji, I. (2022). Sleep disturbance is associated with neck pain: a 3-year longitudinal study after the Great East Japan Earthquake. BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 23(1), 459. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-022-05410-w
The levator scapulae muscles could be overstretched for individuals experiencing upper back, shoulder, and neck pain. Can physical therapies help relieve pain and retrain the muscles to function properly?
Levator Scapulae Muscles
The levator scapulae muscles stretch along the spine across the upper back and neck. They originate from the cervical vertebrae C1 to C4 and attach to the inside top edge of the scapula. (Chotai P. N. et al., 2015) They elevate the shoulder blades, tilt the head, and work with other muscles to stabilize the spine and influence neck motion and upper back posture. The shoulder blade/scapula is the flat, triangular-shaped bone that sits on top of the upper part of the rib cage. Where the levator scapulae attaches, the muscles raise the shoulder blade, a movement called elevation, and indirectly rotates the scapula’s bottom tip downward towards the spine. These shoulder blade movements are part of the shoulder joint’s larger flexion and abduction movements.
Flexion occurs when moving the arm forward and up, and abduction occurs when moving the arm out to the side.
The levator scapulae muscles contract during flexion and/or abduction,
The muscles also contract when moving the neck in side bending, lateral flexion, rotation, or twisting.
Symptoms
Neck and shoulder pain are common problems for office workers, truck drivers, and others who sit most of the day for their jobs. It can worsen when there is no spinal support for maintaining correct alignment. Poorly designed work chairs may contribute to chronic muscle tension and spasms, plus they may contribute to muscle weakness. One of the primary functions of the levator scapulae muscles is to keep the shoulder blade in a position that supports a vertical alignment of the head and to prevent forward head posture. (Yoo W. G. 2018)
However, the shoulder blade is an extremely movable bone. Maintaining stability and correct neck posture is not easy. The levator scapulae muscles may not be strong enough to keep the shoulder blade where it’s supposed to be for healthy posture, and instead, they become overstretched. When muscles are overstretched, they often become taut to try to maintain some form of stability. It can feel like muscle tension because the muscles shorten, but there is a difference. The situation can worsen if one slouches, has no lumbar support, and/or the desk or steering wheel is too high or too low, which may force the shoulder blade upward or downward.
Pain Relief
The levator scapulae muscles are two of several shoulder muscles that may contribute when neck pain presents. This is why a qualified, licensed health professional should diagnose any pain or dysfunction in the area. Physical therapy can help get the body back on track. (Yoo W. G. 2018) Treatment may consist of restoring muscle strength and flexibility in the shoulder, neck, and upper back muscles and developing better posture habits. Physical therapy exercises, particularly those that address upper back posture, can help reduce the stress placed on the levator scapulae muscles and can help decrease kyphosis, often a precursor to forward head posture. Stretching, strengthening, and posture lessons will help relieve pain and increase the physical functioning of the upper body. Other tips for avoiding and relieving muscle pain include:
Stretching regularly by gently rotating the neck and shoulders.
Applying heat to promote relaxation.
Regular massage therapy.
Adjusting chairs and/or monitor height to align with a straight line of sight.
Not carrying heavy bags, especially on one shoulder.
Avoiding side sleeping without proper head support.
Injury Medical Chiropractic Clinic
Visiting a chiropractic and physical therapy team can help treat injuries and chronic pain syndromes, relieve pain, resolve musculoskeletal issues, and prevent future symptoms. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop a personalized care program for each patient through an integrated approach to help return to normal and optimal function. If other treatments are needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
The Natural Way to Heal: Non-Surgical Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief
References
Chotai, P. N., Loukas, M., & Tubbs, R. S. (2015). Unusual origin of the levator scapulae muscle from mastoid process. Surgical and radiologic anatomy : SRA, 37(10), 1277–1281. doi.org/10.1007/s00276-015-1508-6
Yoo W. G. (2018). Effects of thoracic posture correction exercises on scapular position. Journal of physical therapy science, 30(3), 411–412. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.30.411
Can using a self-care traction device help and be a cost-effective method of providing cervical relief at home for individuals who have neck pain?
Neck Pain Traction Device
Neck Pain Traction Device: Individuals with neck or arm pain caused by neck/cervical radiculopathy may benefit from physical therapy to manage their condition. (Alshami, A. M., and Bamhair, D. A. 2021) Physical therapy can improve neck mobility, restore function, and decrease pain.
Traction
A physical therapist may use various treatments and modalities to treat the individual’s condition. Cervical traction is one treatment to help relieve neck pain and can help:
There are different neck traction techniques. The therapist may use a mechanical traction device that requires the individual to strap their head and neck to a machine that gently pulls the neck, providing relief. (Romeo, A. et al., 2018) The physical therapist may also use manual traction with their hands to help the process. This type allows the therapist to easily adjust the amount of traction force and the direction of the pull on the neck. (Romeo, A. et al., 2018)
Home Traction Devices
Cervical traction that works for individuals at the clinic may also benefit from using a traction device at home to maintain their gains. Over-the-door cervical traction may be an effective, safe, and simple way to administer neck traction in the comfort of one’s home to help decrease pain. (Fritz, J. M. et al., 2014) Medical supply stores and pharmacies carry over-the-door traction devices, which can also be found online. If finding an over-the-door traction unit is difficult, the therapy clinic can help order one from a medical supplier.
Setting Up The Device
Before using a neck pain traction device, consult a physical therapist or doctor to ensure neck traction is safe and on usage. Over-the-door traction units may be built differently but comprise the main parts:
A hook-and-pulley apparatus that hangs over the door.
A nylon cord that’s fed through the pulley.
A weight that could be a water bag that hangs on the end of the cord to provide traction force.
A harness to wear on your head.
The traction unit must be hung over a door secured to the top and closed.
It is recommended that the door be a closet door so no one will open it while using the device.
If a closet door is not available, be sure to lock the door so that no one can open it while attached to the device.
A small hook with a pulley attached to it hangs on the door.
The harness attaches to the end of the nylon cord opposite the weighted water bag.
The harness goes on the head, and the chin strap should fit snugly under the chin and be secured by the hook-and-loop fasteners.
The two straps on either side of your head should be hooked to the end of the nylon cord, which is fed through the pulley system.
After strapping on the head harness, fill the water bag using the markings on the bag to indicate its weight and hang it on one end of the cord.
Fill the bag until the water reaches the desired mark, usually 8–15 pounds.
After filling the water bag, sit in a chair facing the door and hang the bag on the other end of the cord not attached to the head harness.
Do not drop the bag; this could cause a sudden forceful traction motion on your neck.
How Long to Use
Individuals should generally use the traction device for about 15 to 20 minutes each session and can perform several sessions per day. (American Physical Therapy Association. 2020) While using the over-the-door traction device, there should be a gentle pulling sensation in the neck, relieving the neck pain, and if there is arm pain or tingling, it should also decrease. Traction does not replace neck exercises or postural correction in treating neck pain. Be sure to follow the therapist’s prescribed exercises. Active engagement is essential to treating and preventing neck pain from returning. If the pain increases while using the traction device, stop using it and consult a physical therapist or doctor. Ask a physical therapist or other neuromusculoskeletal medical professional if self-care traction is appropriate for specific conditions.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution that helps individuals return to normal. Our providers create personalized care plans for each patient, including Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine principles through an integrated approach to treat injuries and chronic pain syndromes to improve ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to relieve pain. If other treatment is needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Neck Injuries
References
Alshami, A. M., & Bamhair, D. A. (2021). Effect of manual therapy with exercise in patients with chronic cervical radiculopathy: a randomized clinical trial. Trials, 22(1), 716. doi.org/10.1186/s13063-021-05690-y
Madson, T. J., & Hollman, J. H. (2017). Cervical Traction for Managing Neck Pain: A Survey of Physical Therapists in the United States. The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, 47(3), 200–208. doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2017.6914
Romeo, A., Vanti, C., Boldrini, V., Ruggeri, M., Guccione, A. A., Pillastrini, P., & Bertozzi, L. (2018). Cervical Radiculopathy: Effectiveness of Adding Traction to Physical Therapy-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Physical therapy, 98(4), 231–242. doi.org/10.1093/physth/pzy001
Fritz, J. M., Thackeray, A., Brennan, G. P., & Childs, J. D. (2014). Exercise only, exercise with mechanical traction, or exercise with over-door traction for patients with cervical radiculopathy, with or without consideration of status on a previously described subgrouping rule: a randomized clinical trial. The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, 44(2), 45–57. doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2014.5065
Can incorporating electrical muscle stimulation help control pain, strengthen muscles, increase physical function, retrain lost movements, and/or manage inflammation for individuals experiencing neck and back pain?
Female doctor placing myostimulation physical therapy equipment on patient’s back
Electric Muscle Stimulation
Electrical muscle stimulation or E-stim is a physical therapy used to reactivate the muscles’ ability to contract. E-stim uses devices that transmit electrical impulses through the skin to target nerves and/or muscles. The most common forms include
Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation, or TENS, is the most well-known type of electrical stimulation that offers devices that can be used at home or on the go.
Electrical muscle stimulation or EMS.
In physical therapy, E-stim stimulates muscles to contract, strengthening them and encouraging blood circulation.
Blood circulation can directly affect the condition of muscle tissue.
Electrical muscle stimulation is also used in spinal cord injury and other neuromuscular conditions. (Ho, C. H. et al., 2014)
E-stim
During treatment, electrodes are hooked to an electric stimulation machine and placed around the affected neck or back area.
The electrodes will be placed on the skin for most neck or back injuries.
The placement of the electrodes depends on the reason for treatment and the depth or superficiality of the electrical stimulation.
The electrodes are often placed near a motor point of a muscle to ensure the correct contraction.
The therapist will adjust the controls of the stimulation machine to achieve thorough muscle contraction with minimal discomfort.
Stimulation can last 5 – 15 minutes, depending on the treatment plan and injury severity.
Spinal Joint Stabilization
Activation of the muscles may help increase spinal joint stability, improving problems with spinal instability. (Ho, C. H. et al., 2014) Electric muscle stimulation is thought to enhance the exercise program a therapist prescribes to help maintain joint stability. Electrical stimulation may also help build muscle strength and endurance. (Veldman, M. P. et al., 2016) Muscle endurance is the repetitions a muscle can contract before it fatigues.
Healing and Pain Management
Electric muscle stimulation therapy can enhance tissue healing and help manage inflammation by reducing swelling and increasing circulation. It can reduce pain sensations by blocking nerve transmission at the spinal cord. (Johnson, M. I. et al., 2019) A healthcare professional may suggest a TENS or take-home electric stimulation unit to manage symptoms. (Johnson, M. I. et al., 2019)
Treatment
Interdisciplinary therapies tailored to an individual’s specific back or neck pain have been found to provide positive results. Exercise, yoga, short-term cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, progressive relaxation, massage, manual therapy, and acupuncture are recommended for neck or back pain. (Chou, R. et al., 2018) Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may also help. Electrical muscle stimulation could be an effective neck or back treatment.
Individuals unsure whether they need or would benefit from electrical should discuss symptoms and conditions with a primary physician, healthcare provider, or specialist to guide them in the right direction and determine the best treatment. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic focuses on what works for the patient and strives to better the body through researched methods and total wellness programs. Using an integrated approach, we treat injuries and chronic pain syndromes through personalized care plans that improve ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs personalized to the individual to relieve pain. If other treatment is needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with the top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and premier rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Thoracic Spine Pain
References
Ho, C. H., Triolo, R. J., Elias, A. L., Kilgore, K. L., DiMarco, A. F., Bogie, K., Vette, A. H., Audu, M. L., Kobetic, R., Chang, S. R., Chan, K. M., Dukelow, S., Bourbeau, D. J., Brose, S. W., Gustafson, K. J., Kiss, Z. H., & Mushahwar, V. K. (2014). Functional electrical stimulation and spinal cord injury. Physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America, 25(3), 631–ix. doi.org/10.1016/j.pmr.2014.05.001
Veldman, M. P., Gondin, J., Place, N., & Maffiuletti, N. A. (2016). Effects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Training on Endurance Performance. Frontiers in physiology, 7, 544. doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2016.00544
Johnson, M. I., Jones, G., Paley, C. A., & Wittkopf, P. G. (2019). The clinical efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for acute and chronic pain: a protocol for a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). BMJ open, 9(10), e029999. doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029999
Chou, R., Côté, P., Randhawa, K., Torres, P., Yu, H., Nordin, M., Hurwitz, E. L., Haldeman, S., & Cedraschi, C. (2018). The Global Spine Care Initiative: applying evidence-based guidelines on the non-invasive management of back and neck pain to low- and middle-income communities. European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society, 27(Suppl 6), 851–860. doi.org/10.1007/s00586-017-5433-8
Can incorporating various yoga poses help reduce neck tension and provide pain relief for individuals dealing with neck pain?
Introduction
Within the hustling and bustling of modern life, it is common for many individuals to carry stress in their bodies. When the body deals with everyday stressors, tension, discomfort, and pain can often manifest in the upper and lower portions of the body. When the body’s upper and lower portions deal with these issues, they can cause overlapping risk profiles in the musculoskeletal system. One of the most common musculoskeletal issues is neck pain. It can cause many problems to the cervical portion of the spine and cause the surrounding muscles to become tense and in pain from the stress of everyday responsibilities. Luckily, there are numerous ways to reduce stress from the neck and help relax the affected muscles from discomfort, including yoga. In today’s article, we will look at how neck pain affects the upper body, the benefits of yoga for neck pain, and various yoga poses to reduce the overlapping effects of neck pain. We discuss with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to assess how neck pain is correlated with everyday stressors that affect the upper body. We also inform and guide patients on how yoga and the various poses can benefit the body and provide pain relief to the surrounding muscles. We also encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers many intricate and important questions about incorporating yoga into their daily routine to reduce muscle tension and provide clarity to their bodies. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
How Does Neck Pain Affect The Upper Body?
Do you feel discomfort or pain in your neck and shoulders after a long, hard workday? Do you notice you hunched more than usual when doing your daily routine? Or do you see yourself developing a hunched posture from looking at the computer screen or phone for an extended period? Many of these normal motions are often correlated with the upper body, especially in the neck and shoulder regions, which causes neck pain. As one of the most common problems affecting many people worldwide, neck pain is a multifactorial disease with numerous risk factors contributing to its development. (Kazeminasab et al., 2022) Like back pain, neck pain can have acute and chronic stages depending on the severity and environmental factors leading to its development. The various muscles, ligaments, and tissues surrounding the neck and shoulders keep the neck stable and mobile. When many individuals overuse these muscles in the neck and shoulders repetitively, it can increase neck pain in the upper body in adulthood. (Ben Ayed et al., 2019)
When acute neck pain turns chronic, it can cause the individual to be in constant discomfort, pain, and misery, so they start to look for various solutions to reduce the correlating symptoms when speaking to their primary doctors. When many individuals begin to explain to their doctors what their daily routine looks like, many doctors will start to assess and formulate a plan that focuses on any specific description of any injuries, including potential mechanisms, inciting and relieving factors, and pain patterns they have encountered throughout the day to come up with a personalized treatment plan to not only reduce neck pain but also provide relief to tension and discomfort to the body. (Childress & Stuek, 2020)
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The Benefits Of Yoga For Neck Pain
Many primary doctors will work with associated medical providers to develop a personalized plan to relieve neck pain and its associated symptoms in many individuals. Many of these customized treatment plans include spinal manipulation, acupuncture, massage, decompression therapy, and therapeutic exercises. One of the therapeutic exercises that many individuals have utilized is yoga. Yoga is a holistic practice encompassing breathing control, meditation, and various poses to stretch and strengthen the affected upper muscles. Yoga is excellent for reducing neck pain and helping with upper cervical spine mobility, stretching the neck musculature to help the individual improve mobility and flexibility. (Raja et al., 2021) Additionally, the effects of yoga and its many poses can reduce tension, give clarity to the mind, and allow the nutrients and oxygen to the musculo-articular system to naturally heal the body itself. (Gandolfi et al., 2023)
Yoga Poses For Neck Pain
At the same time, many individuals with sedentary jobs that correlate to neck pain have implemented yoga as part of their routine. Yoga improves their range of joint motion and cognitive function and helps relieve musculoskeletal discomfort in the neck and shoulder regions. (Thanasilungkoon et al., 2023) Below are some of the various yoga poses that can help reduce the pain-like symptoms of neck pain and ease the surrounding muscles.
Seated Neck Stretches
For seated neck stretches, this yoga pose helps stretch and release the neck muscles that carry tension and stress in the cervical region of the body.
In a seated upright position, turn the head to the right and gently lift the chin.
You should feel a stretch along the left side of the neck and shoulders.
Hold the position for three to five breaths and repeat on the left side.
Camel Pose
For the camel pose, this yoga pose helps strengthen the front neck muscles while easing tension on the shoulders and back of the neck.
You can kneel on a yoga mat by keeping your knees and feet hip-distance apart while keeping the pelvis neutral.
Lift the chest while arching your back and pressing the pelvis slightly forward.
Bring the fingertips to the heels or yoga blocks beside the ankles.
Focus on drawing the chin close to the neck while pressing the feet to the mat.
Hold the position for three to five breaths before releasing and lifting the sternum to rise back up.
Sphinx Pose
The sphinx pose allows you to lengthen and strengthen the spine while stretching the shoulders and releasing tension.
On a yoga mat, lie on your stomach with the elbows under the shoulders.
Press your palms and forearms on the mat and tighten the lower half to support you as you lift your upper torso and head.
Keep looking straight ahead as you are being mindful of lengthening the spine.
Hold this position for three to five breaths.
Thread The Needle Pose
The thread-the-needle pose helps release tension stored in the neck, shoulders, and back.
On a yoga mat, start in an all-fours position with the wrist under the shoulders and the knees under the hips.
Lift the right hand and move it to the left along the floor with the palm facing up.
Hold the position for three to five breaths for thirty seconds and release.
Return to the all-fours position and repeat to the left side.
Conclusion
Overall, incorporating yoga as part of a daily routine can provide beneficial results in reducing neck pain and its associated comorbidities. Yoga does not require hours of practice or even contorting into various poses, as just a few minutes of gentle stretching and mindful breathing each day can provide positive results. When people start to utilize yoga as part of their daily activities, they will notice their posture improving, their minds clearer than ever, and live a happier, healthier life without dealing with neck pain.
References
Ben Ayed, H., Yaich, S., Trigui, M., Ben Hmida, M., Ben Jemaa, M., Ammar, A., Jedidi, J., Karray, R., Feki, H., Mejdoub, Y., Kassis, M., & Damak, J. (2019). Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcomes of Neck, Shoulders and Low-Back Pain in Secondary-School Children. J Res Health Sci, 19(1), e00440. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31133629
Childress, M. A., & Stuek, S. J. (2020). Neck Pain: Initial Evaluation and Management. American Family Physician, 102(3), 150-156. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32735440
Gandolfi, M. G., Zamparini, F., Spinelli, A., & Prati, C. (2023). Asana for Neck, Shoulders, and Wrists to Prevent Musculoskeletal Disorders among Dental Professionals: In-Office Yoga Protocol. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol, 8(1). doi.org/10.3390/jfmk8010026
Kazeminasab, S., Nejadghaderi, S. A., Amiri, P., Pourfathi, H., Araj-Khodaei, M., Sullman, M. J. M., Kolahi, A. A., & Safiri, S. (2022). Neck pain: global epidemiology, trends and risk factors. BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 23(1), 26. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-021-04957-4
Raja, G. P., Bhat, N. S., Fernandez-de-Las-Penas, C., Gangavelli, R., Davis, F., Shankar, R., & Prabhu, A. (2021). Effectiveness of deep cervical fascial manipulation and yoga postures on pain, function, and oculomotor control in patients with mechanical neck pain: study protocol of a pragmatic, parallel-group, randomized, controlled trial. Trials, 22(1), 574. doi.org/10.1186/s13063-021-05533-w
Thanasilungkoon, B., Niempoog, S., Sriyakul, K., Tungsukruthai, P., Kamalashiran, C., & Kietinun, S. (2023). The Efficacy of Ruesi Dadton and Yoga on Reducing Neck and Shoulder Pain in Office Workers. Int J Exerc Sci, 16(7), 1113-1130. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/38287934
Those experiencing neck pain, stiffness, headache, shoulder and back pain may suffer from a whiplash injury. Can knowing whiplash signs and symptoms help individuals recognize the injury and help healthcare providers develop an effective treatment plan?
Whiplash Signs and Symptoms
Whiplash is a neck injury that typically occurs after a motor vehicle collision or accident but can happen with any injury that rapidly whips the neck forward and backward. It is a mild to moderate injury of the neck muscles. Common whiplash signs and symptoms include:
Some individuals can develop chronic pain and headaches.
The symptoms and treatment depend on the severity of the injury. Treatment can include over-the-counter pain medicines, ice and heat therapy, chiropractic, physical therapy, and stretching exercises.
Frequent Signs and Symptoms
The sudden whipping movement of the head can affect several structures within the neck. These structures include:
Muscles
Bones
Joints
Tendons
Ligaments
Intervertebral discs
Blood vessels
Nerves.
Any or all of these can be affected by a whiplash injury. (MedlinePlus, 2017)
Statistics
Whiplash is a neck sprain that occurs from a fast neck-jerking motion. Whiplash injuries account for more than half of vehicle traffic collision injuries. (Michele Sterling, 2014) Even with a minor injury, the most frequent symptoms include: (Nobuhiro Tanaka et al., 2018)
Neck pain
Next stiffness
Neck tenderness
Limited range of motion of the neck
Individuals can develop neck discomfort and pain shortly after an injury; however, the more intense pain and stiffness typically do not occur right after the injury. Symptoms tend to worsen the next day or 24 hours later. (Nobuhiro Tanaka et al., 2018)
Beginning Symptoms
Researchers have found that approximately more than half of individuals with whiplash develop symptoms within six hours of the injury. Around 90% develop symptoms within 24 hours, and 100% develop symptoms within 72 hours. (Nobuhiro Tanaka et al., 2018)
Whiplash vs. Traumatic Cervical Spine Injury
Whiplash describes a mild to moderate neck injury without significant skeletal or neurological symptoms. Significant neck injuries can lead to fractures and dislocations of the spine that can affect the nerves and spinal cord. Once an individual develops neurological problems associated with a neck injury, the diagnosis changes from whiplash to traumatic cervical spine injury. These differences can be confusing as they are on the same spectrum. To better understand the severity of a neck sprain, the Quebec classification system divides neck injury into the following grades (Nobuhiro Tanaka et al., 2018)
Grade 0
This means there are no neck symptoms or physical examination signs.
Grade 1
There is neck pain and stiffness.
Very few findings from the physical examination.
Grade 2
Indicates neck pain and stiffness
Neck tenderness
Decreased mobility or neck range of motion on physical examination.
Grade 3
Involves muscle pain and stiffness.
Neurologic symptoms include:
Numbness
Tingling
Weakness in the arms
Decreased reflexes
Grade 4
Involves a fracture or dislocation of the bones of the spinal column.
Other Symptoms
Other whiplash signs and symptoms that can be associated with the injury but are less common or only occur with a severe injury include (Nobuhiro Tanaka et al., 2018)
Tension headache
Jaw pain
Sleep problems
Migraine headache
Difficulty concentrating
Reading difficulties
Blurred vision
Dizziness
Driving difficulties
Rare Symptoms
Individuals with severe injuries can develop rare symptoms that often indicate traumatic cervical spine injury and include: (Nobuhiro Tanaka et al., 2018)
Amnesia
Tremor
Voice changes
Torticollis – painful muscle spasms that keep the head turned to one side.
Bleeding in the brain
Complications
Most individual generally recover from their symptoms within a few weeks to a few months. (Michele Sterling, 2014) However, whiplash complications can occur, especially with severe grade 3 or grade 4 injuries. The most common complications of a whiplash injury include chronic/long-term pain and headaches. (Michele Sterling, 2014) Traumatic cervical spine injury can affect the spinal cord and be associated with chronic neurological problems, including numbness, weakness, and difficulty walking. (Luc van Den Hauwe et al., 2020)
Treatment
The pain is typically more severe the next day than after the injury. Whiplash musculoskeletal injury treatment depends on whether it is an acute injury or the individual has developed chronic neck pain and stiffness.
Acute pain can be treated with over-the-counter medicines like Tylenol and Advil, which effectively treat the pain.
Advil is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory that can be taken with the pain reliever Tylenol, which works in different ways.
The mainstay of treatment is encouraging regular activity with stretching and exercise. (Michele Sterling, 2014)
Physical therapy uses various range of motion exercises to strengthen the neck muscles and relieve the pain.
Chiropractic adjustments and non-surgical decompression can help realign and nourish the spine.
Acupuncture can cause the body to release natural hormones that provide pain relief, help relax the soft tissues, increase circulation, and reduce inflammation. The cervical spine can return to alignment when the soft tissues are no longer inflamed and spasming. (Tae-Woong Moon et al., 2014)
Sterling M. (2014). Physiotherapy management of whiplash-associated disorders (WAD). Journal of physiotherapy, 60(1), 5–12. doi.org/10.1016/j.jphys.2013.12.004
Tanaka, N., Atesok, K., Nakanishi, K., Kamei, N., Nakamae, T., Kotaka, S., & Adachi, N. (2018). Pathology and Treatment of Traumatic Cervical Spine Syndrome: Whiplash Injury. Advances in orthopedics, 2018, 4765050. doi.org/10.1155/2018/4765050
van Den Hauwe L, Sundgren PC, Flanders AE. (2020). Spinal Trauma and Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). In: Hodler J, Kubik-Huch RA, von Schulthess GK, editors. Diseases of the Brain, Head and Neck, Spine 2020–2023: Diagnostic Imaging [Internet]. Cham (CH): Springer; 2020. Chapter 19. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554330/ doi: 10.1007/978-3-030-38490-6_19
Moon, T. W., Posadzki, P., Choi, T. Y., Park, T. Y., Kim, H. J., Lee, M. S., & Ernst, E. (2014). Acupuncture for treating whiplash associated disorder: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2014, 870271. doi.org/10.1155/2014/870271
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Common Causes Of Whiplash
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