Neck pain and stiffness are common conditions we encounter at Acubody. While it’s important to see a doctor when you’ve suffered from a serious neck injury, moderate neck pain and stiffness can often benefit from a more holistic approach that takes into account different aspects of your life.
As such, you may be able to greatly benefit from some of the bodywork techniques we offer as part of an overall program to improve your health and wellbeing, including activities like myofascial release, pilates, and even acupuncture.
If you’re considering treatment for your neck, or ways to reduce the pain suffered from recent injuries, below is some basic information that could help you decide what the best next course of action is.
Understanding the Neck
Your neck is a complex structure, containing about two dozen inter-connected bone segments called vertebrae. Your cervical spine is located in the neck and is composed of a collection of muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, joints, and bones which run all the way down your spine.
Ultimately, your neck is integral to your structure and pivotal to how you hold and move your body, as well as your head, which is heavier than you might realise. Although your neck is a strong and flexible part of your body, it is incredibly vulnerable to injury and activities.
Neck Injuries and Conditions
Neck Sprain – Sprains in the neck can result from a sudden movement or a hard fall, causing your neck to twist or bend. This can result in one or more ligaments (fibrous tissues that connect two bones together in a joint) becoming stretched or torn. As well as pain, other symptoms of neck sprain include muscle spasms in the upper shoulder, headaches, and neck stiffness. Neck pain and tension are often associated with headaches.
Whiplash – Whiplash, commonly associated with car accidents, is caused by an abrupt movement where the head and neck are jerked forward and backwards in quick succession. This can also result from sports activities and can be followed by neck stiffness, dizziness, headaches and limited range of motion of the neck.
Cervical Fracture – Also known as a broken neck, a cervical fracture occurs when one or more of the cervical vertebrae bones in the neck get broken. This is usually caused by heavy impact trauma and requires treatment from a physician immediately.
General Neck Stiffness – The cause of a stiff neck may be obvious if symptoms start after an injury or particular event. However, if a stiff neck develops out of nowhere, it could be difficult to discover the exact cause. Often, the solution involves improving overall posture and addressing certain imbalances in the body.
Solving Neck Pain
If you’ve suffered a neck injury, or if you have ongoing neck pain or strain caused by your lifestyle, it is important to see an orthopaedic doctor for a proper evaluation.
Additional treatments and support can also reduce pain and strengthen your body so less strain is placed on the neck, preventing the negative impact of bad posture that can leave your neck more vulnerable to damage.
Get in touch with us if you’d like to learn about the treatments we offer for any of the issues above, such as bodywork techniques and acupuncture for neck pain London.
