How Will Your Chiropractor Treat Neck Pain?
It's well known that chiropractors are good at treating neck pain. After all, they are practitioners who specialize in spinal health, and your spine runs right up your neck. But if you've been dealing with neck pain and are about to see a chiropractor, you might find yourself wondering what, exactly, they are going to do to you during your appointment. Well, every case is different, so there is no way to exactly predict what treatments your chiropractor will think are best for you. But there are a few treatments that are often used for patients with neck pain. Take a look.
Adjustment of the Atlas and Axis
The atlas and axis are your first and second cervical vertebrae. They sit at the base of your neck where it meets the back of your head. These two vertebrae often come out of alignment, especially in people who sit all day with their neck strained so they can see a computer screen — which is unfortunately very common. The pain from a misaligned atlas and axis can radiate through your neck as these vertebrae pull on your muscles. After your chiropractor adjusts these two bones, often by using a little activator tool, you will likely feel an instant sense of relief and relaxation.
Adjustment of the Lower Cervical Vertebrae
Your chiropractor will probably also adjust the remaining cervical vertebrae, which are the rest of the vertebrae in your neck. You have seven cervical vertebrae in total, two of which are your atlas and axis. The way your chiropractor adjusts these vertebrae might be a little different. They may turn your head to one side and then press on your shoulder to move a joint back into place, whereas with your atlas and axis, they will usually use the activator tool.
Red Light Therapy
After adjusting your neck, it is common for chiropractors to use red light therapy on the area. This therapy involves simply shining a red light on the sore area for a few minutes. The wavelength of the light penetrates your skin and works its way through your muscles, helping to relax them and reduce inflammation. You won't feel a thing during the therapy; it is not painful. You will, however, notice that your pain subsides afterwards.
If you have additional concerns about your neck pain treatment, call your chiropractor. It's good to know what's going to happen beforehand.
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