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Neck Pain

The leading cause of disability and a major contributor to health care utilization in the United States is pain. Over 25 million US adults report being in pain every day for the previous three months. Of those with chronic pain, 15% listed neck pain as their primary cause of concern. Dr. Sarah Merritt at Merritt Chiropractic in San Ramon, California, relieves your pain with a variety of natural treatment options. Call or make an appointment online today.

 

Neck Pain Q & A

What is neck pain?

Your neck, or cervical spine, start at the base of your skull and is made up of seven small vertebrae that support the full weight of your head. Neck pain can result from:

  • Repetitive movement

  • Accidents, including falls and blows to the body or head

  • Normal aging

  • Everyday wear and tear

Some of the more common types of neck pain include:

  • Osteoarthritis: deterioration of cartilage

  • Spinal stenosis: nerve passageways narrow, causing compression and trapping nerve roots

  • Degenerative disc disease: causes a reduction in the elasticity and height of intervertebral discs due to bulging or herniation

How do chiropractors treat neck pain?

Dr. Merritt uses several different methods to help you combat neck pain. They include:

  • Cervical manipulation: neck adjustments improve mobility and restore range of motion

  • Joint clearing: removes scar tissue, diminishes pain, allows your joints to move freely

  • Activator Protocol: while in the proper position, Dr. Merritt identifies the joint that needs attention and relieves your pain with a tool that enables her to use the least amount of force to be effective

How do you avoid neck pain?

The best way to prevent neck pain is to keep your head centered over your spine. Avoid pinning your phone between your ear and shoulder or carrying heavy bags over your shoulder. These other lifestyle adjustments can also help:

Use good posture

Your shoulders should remain in a straight line over your hips, and your ears should stay directly over your shoulders.

Take frequent breaks

When traveling long distances or working long hours at your computer, you should get up, move around, and periodically stretch your neck and shoulders.

Adjust your work environment

Set your computer monitor at eye level. When sitting, your knees should rest a bit lower than your hips, and your chair should be set up so you can use the armrests.

Adjust your sleep habits

Sleep with your head and neck aligned with your body. A small pillow under your neck helps. Sleeping on your back with your thighs elevated on pillows flattens your spinal muscles and helps you avoid neck pain.

If you’re experiencing neck pain, call Dr. Sarah Merritt at Merritt Chiropractic in San Ramon, California, before you reach for the painkillers. She offers natural relief.

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