Did you know that up to 70% of people will experience neck pain, at some point during their lives that is severe enough to interfere with their daily activities? In fact, neck pain is the fourth leading cause of disability in the United States. So, when the first signs of neck pain begin, it’s crucial to address the pain. That’s where we come in!
Choose Physical Therapy
When treating neck issues, physical therapy is a non-invasive option that can:
- Reduce pain and stiffness
- Improve range of motion, flexibility, and posture
- Strengthen the neck and surrounding areas
- Improve musculoskeletal alignment
- Help you avoid surgery and opioids
As musculoskeletal experts, your physical therapist should be at the top of your list to combat your pain!
Common Symptoms of Neck Pain
Neck pain can develop suddenly (from trauma or injury) or over time from natural wear and tear. Common symptoms of neck pain include:
- Stiffness and soreness
- Headaches
- Muscle spasms
- Nerve pain (which may feel like a burning sensation in the neck, shoulder, or arms)
- Numbness or pain in the upper back, shoulders, arms, or hands
- Sharp, localized stabbing pain
- Weakness in arms or hands or tingling in your fingertips
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapists are uniquely qualified to help identify the root causes of your pain and develop a care plan that focuses on returning you to the activities you love. Don’t ignore neck pain- here’s how:
DIAGNOSIS
Your physical therapist will first conduct an in-depth evaluation of your medical history, current symptoms, and lifestyle to pinpoint what’s causing your pain. Once they understand the specific reason you’re experiencing this pain, they’ll tailor your treatment program to address this issue.
HANDS-ON CARE
Physical therapists will use their knowledge and training to choose treatment techniques, also known as modalities, to treat your muscle pain or movement restrictions. Common modalities physical therapists use include:
These techniques help you restore movement and reduce pain in joints and muscles.
STRETCHING & STRENGTH TRAINING
Based on your specific lifestyle, level of ability, and injury, your physical therapist will provide tailored stretches and exercises to improve the strength of your muscles in and around your neck and shoulder region. Improving flexibility and strength in the neck will decrease pain and allow you to maintain better posture, which will reduce stress on the cervical spine. This added support will improve posture to help decrease pain.
EDUCATION
Understanding how your pain originated is a crucial component in your recovery plan. The neck and spine are extremely sensitive areas, and the mechanics of your everyday activities can contribute to the pain returning. Your physical therapist will ensure you’re correctly educated on your injury, helping you stop the pain in its tracks should it return!
Take Action to Eliminate Neck Pain
Don’t let neck pain stand in your way. Embracing a comprehensive approach to your healthcare, your physical therapists can create a personalized treatment plan to diminish your neck pain and keep you moving forward.
Call any MVPT Physical Therapy location to schedule or complete the form below to request an appointment.
