Why your neck hurts
Your neck has seven small vertebrae that hold up your head. When joints get stiff or irritated, the muscles around them tighten to protect them. Desk work, looking down at a phone, stress and sleeping in an odd position all add to the load.
Neck pain can also come with headaches that start at the base of the skull, and pain or tingling that spreads into the shoulders or arms.
Common signs
- A stiff neck by the end of the workday
- Trouble turning your head to check a blind spot
- Tight, knotted shoulders
- Headaches that start at the base of the skull
Get care right away if you have
- Neck pain after a car crash, fall or blow to the head
- New numbness or weakness in your arms
- Neck pain with fever and a stiff neck
- Neck or back pain with chest pain or shortness of breath (call 911)
How we help at Grace Wellness
Your doctor checks how your neck, upper back and shoulders move, along with your posture and workstation habits.
Care may include gentle adjustments (hands-on or with a low-force instrument), massage for tight shoulders, cold laser therapy, and rehab exercises that build the posture muscles a desk wears down.
What happens at your first visit
- Paperwork. A few forms about your health. Fill them out online before you arrive to save time.
- Consultation and exam. You talk through your symptoms and goals, then your doctor checks posture, range of motion, reflexes and strength.
- X-rays, only if needed. Taken right here in the office, no separate appointment.
- Your first treatment. In most cases you're treated the same day, and your doctor explains each step before starting.
Questions patients ask
Is it safe to have my neck adjusted?
Serious problems from neck adjustments are very rare. Your doctor reviews your health history and screens you first, and can use gentle, low-force techniques or treat around the neck if you prefer.
Can chiropractic help with a stiff neck from desk work?
Yes. It is one of the most common reasons people visit us. Along with treatment, your doctor gives you simple stretches and workstation tips to keep the stiffness from coming back.
What about whiplash after a car accident?
Chiropractic care is commonly used for neck pain after a car accident. If you hit your head or have severe pain, numbness or weakness, get checked at an ER first. Call us about billing with auto insurance.
Related care
Sources: MedlinePlus: Neck injuries and disorders. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Your doctor will examine you and explain your options.