Many people experience pain in the neck from time to time. Yet, it’s critical not to ignore those aches and pains, as they can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain and discomfort meshed with difficulty engaging in activities you enjoy doing. For many people, there are physical therapy techniques for neck pain that can be the best treatment option for the stiffness or pain you have.
Causes for Neck Pain
There are numerous causes for neck pain, each ranging from acute needs to minor damage. Some of the most common causes of neck pain, most of which can be treated through physical therapy, include:
- Muscle tension and strain: This is often brought on by sleeping in an awkward position, poor posture, or repetitive motion injuries
- Injury: Car accidents, sports-related injuries, assault, and falls are common causes of neck pain
- Misalignment: If the joints and vertebrae in the spinal column are not aligned properly, this can lead to a constant level of pain. It can also cause headaches in some people.
- Degenerative disc conditions: This includes conditions such as bulging and herniated discs in the spinal column, which can cause intense, burning pain.
- Diseases: Conditions like some forms of cancer and meningitis can cause neck pain. Some people develop rheumatoid arthritis as well.
Common Neck Injuries
One of the most common times to seek out physical therapy techniques for neck pain is after an injury. Some of the most common neck injuries include:
- Neck fracture (this requires treatment from a professional for proper alignment)
- Pinched nerves
- Neck sprains of the ligaments and tendons
- Whiplash, such as after a car accident
- Arthritis development in the neck, called spondylosis
- Stiff muscles and tendons, which can often mean that pain develops when movement occurs
The neck is made up of several core components, all of which can be damaged in an injury or accident. This includes the vertebrae, or small bones that make up the spinal column, the intervertebral discs, which sit between each of the vertebrae to act as a type of cushion, and both joints and muscles.
If you’re seeking relief from neck pain, exploring physical therapy techniques for neck pain could be the answer you’ve been searching for. Physical therapists employ a range of specialized methods to address discomfort and improve mobility in the neck. From targeted exercises to hands-on therapies, these techniques aim to alleviate pain and restore function. Incorporating physical therapy into your treatment plan may provide significant benefits in managing and overcoming neck pain
So What Are Some Physical Therapy Techniques for Neck Pain?
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques like massage and joint mobilization can help release tension and improve range of motion in the neck.
Therapeutic Exercises
Strengthening and stretching exercises designed specifically for the neck muscles can help alleviate pain and prevent future issues.
Posture Correction
Poor posture is often a contributing factor to neck pain. Physical therapists can teach you proper ergonomics and posture to relieve strain on your neck.
Modalities
Therapeutic modalities such as heat, cold, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation may be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the neck.
Education and Ergonomics
Learning about ergonomics and how to avoid activities that exacerbate neck pain is crucial for long-term relief.
Benefits That Come With Physical Therapy Techniques for Neck Pain
You should not be afraid to seek out physical therapy techniques for neck pain. It can be one of the most holistic, noninvasive, and effective treatment options available to you to reduce your pain and discomfort. Physical therapy can help you to address a new neck pain or one that continues to come back. There are several key ways it can help even when other treatment options may not have been effective for you to this point.
Improve Mobility
One of the best reasons to seek out physical therapy is because it can help to improve your mobility. Neck pain is debilitating and can make it hard for you to do the things you want to do. Your body is naturally conditioned not to move or engage in activities that are painful, yet not moving those muscles only makes it worse over time. By seeking out physical therapy, it is possible to strengthen the muscles and improve their overall functionality. Over time, this can help to improve:
- Range of motion of both your head and neck, allowing you to twist and turn with ease
- Strengthen the postural flexibility of the need, giving you more protection against additional injuries
- And teach you how to reduce neck pain in the future by addressing any underlying causes of the pain you feel
Avoid Surgery
After a surgical procedure, your body is healing and resting. The lack of movement in your neck and shoulder muscles can make your pain worse. Over time, they become stiff and hard to move. Physical therapy is not designed to push you through that pain but rather to build up stronger muscles to develop a better ability to move without discomfort. After surgery, your doctor may recommend that you find a physical therapy clinic to provide you with this type of hands-on support and recovery planning.
Return to Activities
If you have suffered an injury that has kept you sidelined from things you want and need to do, a physical therapist can help you get back into action. They do this by addressing the limitations you have and creating a treatment plan that addresses those discomforts. This may include improving not just your ability to twist and turn but also helping to ensure proper alignment when you do. Over time, this works not only to help you to get back to the activities you want to be a part of, but it also ensures that you can do so with confidence and without the risk of additional injury.
When Should You See a Doctor?
There are some times when your first step is to see a doctor or surgeon. If you have a broken bone, such as after a sports injury or car accident, that needs to be set first, and healing needs to begin. If you have pain that does not improve and a history of cancer or the risk of other complicated health conditions, it is worth calling your doctor to discuss what could be happening. There are some conditions that physical therapy cannot heal, and treatment from your doctor is the first line of support.
Suppose you are unsure if the type of injury you have requires physical therapy. Set up a consultation with our team to find out. We are happy to answer your questions and offer guidance and advice to you on what you could be facing.
Let the Team at Rock Valley PT Help You
With our ability to provide clients with personalized attention and individualized treatment plans, we can help you learn physical therapy techniques for neck pain and get rid of those pains for good. We work with our clients very carefully to ensure they are getting the right type of therapy for their needs. Contact us now to set up a time to discuss your needs with our team at Rock Valley PT.