Neck Pain Treatment in Rochester Hills, MI

How We Treat Neck Pain In Rochester Hills, MI

Comprehensive Consultation and Exam

At Delta Chiropractic, we know that no two patients with neck pain are the same. The first step in this process is the comprehensive consultation. This includes an overview of symptoms, health history, and lifestyle. It is essential to know how long the symptoms have been present, any associated injuries, and contributing factors. All of that information helps the chiropractor conduct the physical exam. This includes different range of motion testing, orthopedic testing, and joint-specific assessments.

Digital X-rays

Chiropractic X-rays are essential for providing each patient with individualized care. An X-ray will reveal the position of the bone and any abnormalities in the joint or joint spaces. Analysis of the X-ray can help rule out conditions and identify subtle misalignments in the spine. In a controlled setting, the risk from radiation is very low. The benefits of an accurate diagnosis outweigh it.

Specific Chiropractic Care in Rochester, MI

The goal of the chiropractic adjustment is to correct the subluxation. This term is used to identify the vertebrae that have lost their proper position or motion to the extent that they impinge the nerve. This can lead to various symptoms, including but not limited to pain, pinching, numbness, tingling, burning, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and others. A chiropractic adjustment helps alleviate pressure on the nerve, allowing the body to heal naturally. This approach is superior to medical methods because it not only relieves symptoms but also corrects the underlying cause.

Soft Tissue Work

Patients with neck pain will often have tight muscles around the affected area. Tight muscles are a protective mechanism secondary to a subluxation. To alleviate this symptom, a chiropractor will use manual therapy techniques, often accompanied by pain creams that help relax the muscles.

Custom Therapeutic Exercise Plan

When correcting the spine, it is essential to incorporate exercises that help build stability. This not only reduces pain faster but also decreases the risk of future flare-ups. Your chiropractor will give you specific exercises based on your spine, lifestyle, and exercise goals.

Common Causes of Neck Pain in Rochester Hills, MI

Subluxation

A subluxation is the vertebrae that has lost its proper position or motion to the extent that it impinges the nerve. This can lead to various symptoms but most commonly causes neck pain. When left unaddressed, a subluxation can lead to early osteoarthrosis and joint degeneration and put the spinal disc at greater risk of injury. Chiropractors are the only physicians with the skills to correct this condition.

Osteoarthritis

This type of arthritis is the most common arthritis, causing cartilage breakdown and bony changes. These changes can be diagnosed with an x-ray. The latest research points to a cause of improper wear and tear on joints. Changes in spinal alignment and biomechanics lead to disproportionate force in some areas, causing this wear and tear. Individuals with osteoarthritis usually experience joint pain in the morning and at night and feel the best with exercise. Chiropractic care is essential for restoring normal motion and alignment to the bones that show signs of osteoarthritis.

Bulged Cervical Discs

Between each spinal bone, there is a disc composed of a tough outer layer and a soft, jelly-like center. When under stress and misalignment, these discs can protrude beyond their normal boundary, putting pressure and inflammation on the nerve. This can lead to pain in the neck, numbness, or shooting pain down the arms, as well as muscle weakness. The chiropractic adjustment will help bring balance to the structure around the disc. This will reduce symptoms and allow the body to heal naturally.

Whiplash

Whiplash is a common injury to the neck. This rapid movement can strain or tear muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the neck. This forceful back-and-forth motion of the head is most common in car accidents and certain sports. Symptoms associated with this condition include pain and stiffness, reduced range of motion in the neck, fatigue, and headaches. The chiropractic approach will employ various modalities to help alleviate symptoms and restore mobility and stability. This includes chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and custom exercises.

Spinal Stenosis

The term stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spaces in the cervical spine. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and spinal nerves. This usually develops slowly over time due to degenerative changes. These changes are amplified by misalignment and the passage of time. To avoid surgical intervention, it is crucial that people with spinal stenosis utilize conservative measures like chiropractic care, spinal decompression, and costume exercises.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should you see a chiropractor in Rochester, MI, for Neck pain?

Pain is common, but it is not normal. It is the body’s natural warming sign of a deeper problem. A chiropractor can help evaluate your pain and create natural neck pain solutions tailored to you. Seeking care early can prevent the problem from progressing and help reduce the risk of developing a chronic issue.

Do medical doctors recommend chiropractors for neck pain?

A medical doctor who follows evidence-based guidelines will refer a patient with neck pain to a chiropractor when it is determined that the issue is musculoskeletal in nature. Many patients will seek out a chiropractor first for their neck pain to avoid the use of medications or surgery.

Are Chiropractors covered by insurance for Neck Pain?

Yes, chiropractic care is often covered by insurance because of the evidence to support chiropractic care in the relief of neck pain. It is important to check your specific insurance plans and verify insurance with your chiropractic provider.

How can you tell if your neck is out of alignment?

There are several signs of neck misalignment. Some examples are:

• Neck pain or discomfort without a specific injury or sprain.
• Headaches come from the neck or at the base of the skull.
• Limited range of motion when turning or tilting your head.
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands.

Is it okay to pop my own neck?

No. Popping your neck may give temporary relief, but it can cause more harm than good. This often introduces random motion into the spine, which could easily exacerbate the underlying condition. It is recommended to consult a chiropractor for an evaluation of your neck pain and personalized care.