Stiff necks are a part of life. Who hasn’t gotten up from a nap on the couch with a stiff neck from sleeping at an awkward angle? But there’s a fundamental difference between a stiff neck resulting from an unusual sleeping position and pain you experience in your neck while lifting weights, playing with the grandkids or in the aftermath of an auto accident. The first type of pain can typically be treated with NSAIDS, ice and rest. While the second type of pain is usually more serious and will require professional attention. But who to see?

When you Should See a Chiropractor in Thornhill

A stiff neck is typically the result of holding an awkward position for too long, while a neck injury results from asking too much of the musculoskeletal system. A chiropractor can provide effective treatment for neck pain and you should make an appointment to see one if:

• The pain and/or stiffness does not get better in 2 or 3 days.
• You cannot turn your head in either direction without considerable pain.
• You are using OTC meds just to make it through the day.
• The pain in your neck has spread to your arms and hands producing numbness and tingling.
• The pain in your neck started shortly after an automobile accident.

The chiropractor in Thornhill will conduct a comprehensive examination and ask a number of questions aimed at determining the specific cause of the pain you are experiencing. Typically the chiropractor will check for tenderness in different areas and test to see if movement is significantly impaired. They will also ask about other conditions you may have that could potentially contribute to your pain or affect treatment.

What Causes the Actual Neck Pain?

Pain is a neurological mechanism that provides a person with motivation to avoid repeating a particular activity or situation so that damaged tissue can have the time it needs to heal. When it comes to neck pain the source is typically either a pinched nerve, a hyperextension of the spine, ligaments and tendons (Whiplash) or overexertion resulting in a torn muscle tendon or ligament.

Pinched Nerves

Pinched nerves occur when the vertebrae of the neck shift out of their proper alignment. But vertebrae don’t slip out of alignment for no reason. There is always a cause and that may be:

• Poor posture – Sitting hunched over at your desk all day can, over time, result in the vertebrae of the back becoming misaligned.
• Sleeping on your stomach – People aren’t designed to sleep on their stomachs and doing so can have negative repercussions on the alignment of your spinal column.
• Accident or injury – A car accident, work accident or slipping and falling on an icy sidewalk are just some of the ways the vertebrae can become suddenly misaligned.

If you need a chiropractor in Thornhill call 905-762-0225 and make an appointment with Active Care Health Services. No one is better qualified to provide you the quality care you need to obtain the relief you seek from your neck pain.