While neck pain can often have many causes, failure of the muscles and joints of the neck to remain stable is a common cause that presents to many chiropractic offices.
This is due to alteration in the normal structure or loss of the normal cervical curve. This alters the distribution of weight throughout the neck and results in instability in the joints of the neck. Another cause of this instability is a weakness in the muscles of the neck that stabilize the spine due to repeated strain or underuse.
How do I fix My Neck Pain?
Chiropractic care has been shown to increase range of motion, decrease pain, and increase function in those suffering from neck pain by restoring normal function to the joints of the spine. This takes the pressure off the nerves and discs of the spine.
Addressing muscular dysfunction and control is another important step in solving neck pain.
Research shows that weakness/impairment of the deep cervical neck flexors is common among those with neck pain from various etiologies.The deep cervical neck flexors consist of the longus colli, longus capitus, rectus capitus, and longus cervicus. These muscles act to stabilize the neck. A chin tuck or nod exercise is a great way to isolate and strengthen these muscles.
Dr. David Satterfield, Chiropractor