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.
Analgesics are pain-relieving medications, also known as painkillers. These can be over-the-counter and prescription medications. Either could be part of a treatment plan for spine-related pain. Individuals dealing with back or neck conditions, typically take analgesics to reduce symptoms.
Analgesics are available over-the-counter/OTC and with a prescription
Prescription analgesics usually include the more powerful form of over-the-counter medications
Analgesics can be specialized with some to relieve pain, with others reducing inflammation/pain
Over-the-counter
Acetaminophen, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and topical analgesics are the most commonly used medications for various pain symptoms. Over-the-counter analgesics are most effective when taken at the first sign/presentation of acute pain. Whiplash, along with muscle sprains and strains are common injuries known to cause short term pain that can be mild to severe. Follow the medication’s instructions on dosage recommendations and precautions.
If the medication does not work or helps manage the pain, and/or pain symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider. This could be an indicator that a more powerful prescription analgesic is needed to help manage the pain, along with added therapy like physical therapy, and chiropractic to help avoid dependence on the prescription meds.
Acetaminophen
Tylenol is one form of medication taken for different types of pain and is one of the most popular over-the-counter analgesics. Acetaminophen’s purpose is exclusively to relieve pain. It does not reduce inflammation.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs work to reduce inflammation and pain. Types of over-the-counter These include:
Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Naproxen
Topical analgesics
Topical analgesics like capsaicin cream and salicylates are an alternative to analgesics taken by mouth. These creams, balms, gels, and sprays are applied to the painful area. It is a very common application and is widely used for joint, muscle, and back pain. Salicylates are plant-based chemicals that operate to decrease the body’s production of prostaglandins. These are lipids that let the body know that there is a problem causing inflammation and pain.
Prescription
A doctor could prescribe an analgesic as part of a treatment plan to help manage short-term and chronic pain. It is extremely important to precisely follow the doctor’s instructions on how much and when to take the medication. Remember that any of these medications have the potential for side effects, which includes the risk of negative interactions when taken with other meds. Be sure to talk with a doctor about potential risks, and keep them informed about all medications like blood pressure and diabetes meds and natural herbs/vitamins/supplements taken for other medical conditions.
COX-2 Inhibitors
Cyclo-oxygenase-2 or COX-2 inhibitors are a prescription NSAID medication type that is formulated to target specific enzymes that trigger inflammation. Inflammation is not just a symptom but can also be a cause of pain related to many different spinal disorders. COX-2 inhibitors have a lower risk of causing/contributing to gastrointestinal problems.
There are other potential side effects and risks associated with COX-2 inhibitors. Potential side effects include an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, like a heart attack or blood clots. COX-2 inhibitors reduce the risk of stomach problems than classic NSAIDs but if gastrointestinal conditions exist to talk with a doctor before taking these medications.
Opioids
These are highly potent analgesics and are no longer the first type of pain-relieving medication that a doctor prescribes. They are now to be the last resort for reducing moderate to severe pain symptoms. These medications work by decreasing the perception and reaction to the pain. Opioids are prescribed for short-term use following surgical procedures and trauma. However, there are different situations where use is appropriate. When opioids are recommended, the doctor will begin with the lowest strength/dosage to manage the pain. Types of opioids include:
Analgesic medications are commonly used for various types of pain-causing conditions. When they are used properly with a doctor�s supervision they are safe and effective at managing pain and discomfort. If new symptoms present and/or the pain worsens or becomes different contact your doctor on appropriate instructions.
Chiropractic Neck 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*
A look at what a stinger or burner injury is and what they can do to the neck and shoulders. We will look at:
Symptoms
Treatment
Prevention
Contact sports, like:
Football
Hockey
Soccer
Basketball
This is a very common cervical injury that affects the neck and upper body. This is known as a stinger.
A stinger can also be called a burner and is an injury that happens when the head or neck gets hit to one side, which causes the shoulder to be pulled in the opposite direction.
Stingers/burners often happen at the high school level but can occur at all levels of play.
Stinger/Burner neck injury cause
A stinger is caused by stretching the brachial plexus nerves.
These peripheral nerves that come out of:
Spinal cord
Run across the shoulders
Under the collarbone
Into the arms
The brachial plexus nerves give the arms their strength and sensation.
When a sideways hit to the head or hit to the shoulder occurs, the nerves can become:
Compressed
Stretched
Irritated
Symptoms of a cervical stinger
This type of sideways collision causes immediate and intense pain, tingling or burning sensations that can run down the arm into the fingers.
Weakness in the affected arm or hand is common.
The weakness, numbness, and tingling sensations can last a few minutes or for a few weeks.
Stinger/burner injury treatment
Fortunately, most stinger injuries heal on their own with rest and relaxation of the neck muscles.
Athletes are placed on the disabled list until symptoms are gone and a doctor has cleared the athlete.
Players can return to sport once the pain is gone and they’ve regained:
Full range of motion
Strength
Normal sensation in neck and arms
Constant or recurring symptoms could indicate a more serious injury.
Cervical x-rays, a CT scan, or MRI could be used to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.
Can stinger/burner injuries be prevented?
Strengthening exercises for the neck muscles are an important way for athletes and beginners to help prevent these injuries.
Using the proper and correct technique in contact sports to avoid spearing/spear tackles and head down tackling.
Safety equipment, like neck rolls, can help limit the backward movement of the neck.
Players who experience stinger symptoms should immediately report it to their coaches or team/personal physician.
Ignoring or playing through a stinger injury can lead to more severe injuries.
*Neck* Pain Chiropractic Care | El Paso, Tx
Following a balanced diet along with healthy lifestyle habits can help promote optimal health and wellness.
People with neck pain realize how much their symptoms affect their ability to engage in everyday activities.
Dr. Alex Jimenez helps patients achieve neck pain relief through chiropractic care, an alternative treatment option that carefully corrects any spinal misalignments or subluxations.�
NCBI Resources
Stretching is an outstanding complement to chiropractic care.
Blood flow to the muscles is increased, helps lower the risk of injury and improves performance.
Stretching is good for the joints, it helps them function through their full range of motion.
Stretching is often an outstanding complement to chiropractic care. Blood flow to the muscles is increased and it helps lower the risk of injury and improves physical performance. More importantly, stretching is good for the joints, helping them function through their full range of motion. Additionally, some studies show that muscles work and move more effectively when they are stretched regularly. These benefits of stretching make it a great practice to incorporate into your daily routine, especially between chiropractic treatments.
The muscles all along the spine respond well to stretching. However, sometimes it is difficult to manipulate specific muscle groups and get a thorough stretch.
The cervical spine is a prime example. Although the neck turns in so many ways, finding positions that provide an effective stretch are surprisingly difficult.
These three stretches effectively work the muscles through the neck and shoulders�and are simple enough to do at home whether you are between chiropractic appointments or if you wake up with a crick in your neck.
Before You Stretch
If you are under a chiropractor�s care, you should check with him or her before you start a stretching program. This is especially important if you have a neck injury or have a spinal condition that causes deterioration or pain.
When you begin stretching, you may feel a little discomfort, but it is important to note that it should never cause pain or worsen it. If this occurs, or if it just doesn�t feel �right,� you should stop immediately and call your chiropractor.
Neck and Trap Stretch
If standing: Stand up straight with your pelvis slightly tucked (not swayback), feet shoulder�s width apart, knees soft.
If sitting: Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor.
1. Drop your shoulders and roll them slightly back. Let your arms hang down.
2. Reach behind your back and, with your left hand, grasp your right wrist. If you can�t reach to grasp your wrist, grab your fingers. If you can�t reach your fingers, sit in a straight back chair and put your right arm as far behind you as you can and slide your right hand under your right buttock to provide stability.
3. If clasping your hands behind you, gently pull your arm behind you to the left. If unable to reach behind you, drop your right shoulder.
4. At the same time, tilt your head to the left, bringing your ear to your shoulder but don�t raise your left shoulder. You will feel the stretch all along the right muscles of the neck.
5. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds.
6. Do the same movement for the left side.
7. Repeat the full move 3 to 5 times.
Gentle Neck Extension
If standing: Stand up straight with your pelvis slightly tucked (not swayback), feet shoulder�s width apart, knees soft, hands relaxed and at your sides.
If sitting: Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor, hands relaxed and at your sides.
If lying down: Lie flat on the floor. If necessary, put a pillow under your knees to take pressure off of the lower back. Stretch your arms down by your side.
1. Push your shoulders down towards your feet.
2. Tuck your chin to your chest but don�t let your shoulders lift.
3. Slowly raise your chin, feeling the stretch along the front of your neck. Hold the position for 20 to 30 seconds.
4. Return your head to its normal, upright position for 30 seconds. Repeat the entire movement 5 to 7 times.
Stretch for Traps
If standing: Stand up straight with your pelvis slightly tucked (not swayback), feet shoulder�s width apart, knees soft, hands relaxed and at your sides.
If sitting: Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor, hands relaxed and at your sides.
If lying down: Lie flat on the floor. If necessary, put a pillow under your knees to take pressure off of the lower back. Stretch your arms down by your side.
1. Start with your head in the normal, upright position.
2. Bend your neck to the right side, moving your ear towards your shoulder.
3. Raise your left hand to your head and apply gentle pressure to facilitate the stretch while drawing up your left shoulder. Hold for 20 seconds.
4. Return to your starting position.
5. Repeat the same movement on the right side.
6. Do 3 to 5 sets.
Neck Pain Chiropractic Treatment
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Neck pain is one of the most common sources of pain and chronic pain worldwide. According to the International Association for the Study of Pain, each year, around 30% to 50% of the general population experiences neck pain and approximately 15% will, at some point in their lives, have chronic neck pain. Women seem to experience it more often than men, and it is most prevalent at around middle age. Neck pain can be debilitating, impacting a person home life as well as their work performance. It can also trigger migraines and limit the range of motion. Understanding the cervical spine is integral in understanding how to manage pain in that area.
What is the Cervical Spine?
Seven vertebrae make up the cervical spine: C1 through C7. They protect the spinal cord and are part of the system that makes up the neck.
C1 is located at the base of the skull and C7 sits at the beginning of the thoracic spine. While C1 is the smallest vertebrae, each subsequent one is slightly larger as you move down the spine. This is necessary because the farther down the spine, the more weight it must bear.
The vertebrae C3 through C6 are called �typical vertebrae.� Like other vertebrae in the spine, they have a similar construction. The top vertebrae, C1 and C2, are �atypical vertebrae.� Their construction is somewhat different from typical vertebrae due to their specialized function and location.
The atlas, C1, is the only vertebrae that have more of a ring shape than a shape resembling a vertebra. It is what connects the skull to the spine and is responsible for about half of the head�s backward and forward range of motion.
The axis, C2, is the second vertebra and has a unique construction that connects it to C1 at the atlanto-axial joint. It is responsible for around half of the head�s rotation. The vertebra prominens, C7, is much larger than the vertebrae that sit above it and its shape is different to facilitate its connection to T1, at the beginning of the thoracic spine.
Neck Pain
The cervical spine has several critical functions. It houses the spinal cord and protects it, supports the head and facilitates its movement, and facilitates the flow of blood to the brain.
The human head is around 10 to 13 pounds and the cervical spine, along with an intricate network of muscles, tendons, and ligaments support it. This is what also allows flexibility to the head so that it can move up and down, backward and forwards, rotational, and side bending. This job alone puts a great deal of stress on the neck and can lead to neck pain. Common causes of neck pain include:
Whiplash (whipping the head forwards and then backward very suddenly)
Degenerative disc disease
Pinched Nerve
Age-related conditions
Spinal stenosis
Sleeping in certain positions
Neck strain
Osteoarthritis
Keeping the neck in one spot too long, such as looking down at a mobile device
Herniated disc
Neck injury
Fibromyalgia
Chiropractic Care for the Cervical Spine
A chiropractor will typically treat a patient with neck pain using cervical spinal manipulation, cervical spinal mobilization, or a combination of the two techniques. Cervical spinal manipulation is what most people think of regarding chiropractic treatment. It involves short, quick thrusts that focus on a single joint at a time, so that range of motion is returned to that area. Cervical spinal mobilization is a gentler, lower impact adjustment that does not use as much force but does move the joint to its correct position.
Other treatments the chiropractor may employ include the application of cold or heat, massage, and exercises to strengthen and stretch the neck. The doctor will carefully consider the patient, their lifestyle, habits, and current level of fitness then create a plan that is tailored specifically for them that will help them manage their pain and return flexibility and range of motion as quickly as possible.
As we age, specific changes take place in the body. The spine gets a lot of wear and tear because it is the primary supportive structure that does everything from keeping the head upright to providing a pathway for neural impulses, to providing mobility. It�s no wonder that there comes the point where the body does not function like it once did. Cervical spondylosis is a broad term describing a condition that is related to the natural wear and tear on the disks in the neck.
What is Cervical Spondylosis?
Also known as neck arthritis or cervical osteoarthritis, cervical spondylosis is very common in elderly patients, particularly in those over age 60. More than 85% of people over 60 years of age have some form of it, usually with few or no symptoms present. It does get worse with age, though, so it could progress to the point where the patient does experience pain, reduced flexibility, stiffness, lack of mobility, or other symptoms.
Cervical spondylosis is a blanket term that is used to describe some conditions, and while it is usually considered an age-related condition, it can have other causes as well including heredity. This condition often begins with changes in the disk.
With age, the disks in the spine and neck will dehydrate. This causes them to shrink, leaving little or no padding between the vertebrae. As a result, the patient may develop signs of osteoarthritis and in some cases, bone spurs. Depending on how the condition progresses and presents, it can be a cause of chronic pain.
What are the Treatments for Cervical Spondylosis?
Treatment for cervical spondylosis involves relieving the symptoms. There is no way to reverse the effects that it has on the body so treating the pain, stiffness, and other issues that accompany the condition is the course that is usually taken by doctors. Depending on the exact symptoms, treatment may include using an ice pack, bed rest, warm compress, and low impact exercise as the patient can handle it.
The doctor may recommend an analgesic or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). In cases where the pain is severe and difficult to manage, they may prescribe a narcotic painkiller, steroids, or a muscle relaxant.
They might also combine drug therapy with physical therapy. In very severe cases the doctor may recommend spinal injections or surgery. Some common operations for cervical spondylosis include intervertebral disc arthroplasty, invertebral disc annuloplasty, and spinal fusion.
In many cases, soft collars, rigid orthoses, molded cervical pillow, or a Philadelphia collar may be recommended to provide support. However, many doctors believe that these methods are not entirely effective and that any benefit the patient receives is primarily due to a placebo effect.
This is because the neck is still mobile and does not have�restrictions of movement. If used correctly, though, it can provide some support. This means that the patient needs to wear it as much as possible when they are not sleeping.
In many cases, the medications have unpleasant side effects, and some can even be harmful. This is especially true with prescription pain medications which can be addictive.
Surgery is also not a preferred treatment due to potential complications, the invasiveness of the procedure, and the length of time it takes to heal. Often patients seek other forms of treatment that are more natural and gentle on the body. Chiropractic is one of the most popular remedies for cervical spondylosis.
Chiropractic for Cervical Spondylosis
Chiropractic is a popular treatment for cervical spondylosis. Many patients gravitate toward it because it is non-invasive and does not use harmful medications. Its natural, whole body approach makes it an appealing treatment method.
In addition to spinal manipulation, the chiropractor may use massage to help relieve stiffness and pain. He or she may also recommend ice or heat, rest, stretching, lifestyle changes, and even dietary modifications.
Patients may be advised to remove foods from their diet that increase inflammation and taught special exercises that help keep the neck supple. Some chiropractors recommend special supplements to help work with the body enabling its natural ability to heal itself.
Have you ever had a pain in the neck? And your kids or significant other don’t count. If you’ve ever had a stiff, sore neck, then you’ve more than likely experienced cervicalgia. You’re not alone. The American Osteopathic Association estimates that more than 25% of Americans have experienced or chronically experience neck pain. Neck pain is one of the primary causes of chronic pain, ranking number three behind knee pain (number two) and back pain (number one). Chronic pain affects around 65% of people in the United States, ranging in age 18 to 34. They either have experienced it firsthand or care for someone who has recently experienced it. That number increases as the population ages.
It is also worth noting that most doctors prescribe pain medications, but more than 33% of patients with chronic pain won’t take them because they are afraid of becoming addicted.
What is Cervicalgia?
Cervicalgia is a blanket term used to describe neck pain. It can range from a simple crick in the neck to severe pain that prevents you from turning your head.
Knowing the term for the pain, though, does not help when it comes to treatment because treatment lies in the cause of the pain. It can become quite complex because there are so many causes for the pain. Sometimes the cause itself must be eliminated before the treatments for the pain can be effective.
What are the Causes of Cervicalgia?
The causes of cervicalgia are vast and varied. A patient who sits at their desk for too long or sleeps in a poor position can develop neck pain.
Injuries such as sports injuries and whiplash fall at the more severe end of the spectrum. Even simple gravity can be a culprit.
The human head can weigh as much as 10 pounds, sometimes even more, and the neck is tasked with keeping it upright. Just the action of fighting gravity and keeping the head erect for long periods of time (like all day) can cause the neck muscles to become strained and fatigued. This can also cause neck injuries to heal slower because the neck is almost always in use and under consistent stress.
How is Cervicalgia Treated?
Treatment for cervicalgia depends on both the symptoms and the cause. If you have been injured, you should immediately seek medical attention to assess the injury’s severity.
You can apply ice to help reduce inflammation and swelling, but do not delay a medical evaluation. Some neck injuries can be severe, causing severe conditions, including paralysis.
After an assessment, your doctor may prescribe medication such as anti-inflammatories and stronger painkillers. A cervical collar may also be recommended since it allows the neck to rest, which will promote healing.
If the pain is caused by other reasons such as stress, poor posture, or sleeping on the wrong pillow (in other words, you have a crick in your neck), you can use an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, and using a heating pad will help. Massage is also effective.
However, prevention is the best cure. When you know what is causing your cervicalgia, you can take steps to prevent it. Chiropractic can help both in prevent cervicalgia and in treating it.
Chiropractic for Cervicalgia
Chiropractic treatment can help relieve cervicalgia pain for many of the causes, including injury, stress, and misalignment. Depending on the cause, the chiropractor will use specific techniques to treat the root of the problem.
They will bring the body back into alignment, which also helps to prevent the pain of cervicalgia. The most attractive aspect is that it allows for pain management without the use of any medications.
When you get regular chiropractic care, you can reduce your chances of experiencing pain in your neck and back. That is why so many people are choosing chiropractic care for their neck and back pain instead of turning to traditional medicine because it works.
April Hermosillo enjoys fitness. She enjoys exercising and eating healthful foods. As an athlete since age 14, neck and low back pain which caused her to get feet cramps had been undergone by April. April Hermosillo tries everyday not to let her symptoms affect her everyday life. April expresses just how much pain relief Dr. Alex Jimenez has supplied her and how thankful she is for having a doctor she can expect with her health issues. She recommends him as the non-surgical option for back pain.
Chiropractic Maintenance Care
Eight out of 10 adults experience debilitating back or neck pain at some time in their lives. Back pain is the second cause of missed workdays because of illness, and also the most common cause of disability in the United States. Chiropractic care’s goal is to provide safe and effective treatment which permits individuals to come back to a lifestyle when possible. Spine experts can ascertain which treatment strategies are best for each health problem. Non-surgical remedies are the most suitable treatments for neck and back pain.
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As El Paso�s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center,�we passionately are focused on treating patients after frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities.
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