Do you have a pain in the neck? While we all experience life’s pains in the neck (a surprise visit from your in-laws, calls about your car’s extended warranty, to name a few) neck pain does not have to be one of them.
Millions of Americans suffer from neck pain annually, and studies are showing that the price tag attached to it is staggering. According to an article from the Journal of the American Medical Association, in 2016 alone neck and low back pain accounted for an estimated $134 billion in combined healthcare spending, even higher than diabetes and hypertension. (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2762309)
Some common contributors to neck pain are:
neck muscle strains from poor posture while using a computer or cell phone
carrying heavy bags or purses on one shoulder on the same side
unsupported sleeping posture
Here are some tips you can try today to better support your neck and spine:
Bring computer and phone screens to eye level. This will help reduce the hunched forward posture that strains neck muscles producing soreness. Also, take frequent desk breaks to get up, move, and stretch. The neck, spine, and nervous system thrive on motion!
Switch shoulders when carrying purses and use a wider strap. Doing this will help to balance and disperse the extra weight that is being carried.
Stop sleeping on your stomach and start sleeping on your back or side. Stomach sleeping causes the neck muscles to strain throughout the night. Also, using a pillow that supports the curve of the neck and keeps the spine neutral is important to allow the muscles of the neck to rest and repair while you sleep.
At Precision Care Chiropractic, we specialize in a gentle technique for the upper neck called Atlas Orthogonal. This technique is designed to optimize the function of your nervous system and restore balance throughout your body. If you’re dealing with neck pain, contact us to find some relief.
Dr. Ashley Hooper, D.C. is an upper cervical chiropractor in Franklin. Dr. Ashley is dedicated to teaching the community about natural healthcare. www.precisioncarechiro.com
Wellness Care
The BioMat utilizes far infrared waves, negative ions, and amethyst crystals to strengthen and repair your body. 30 minute sessions have been shown to:
This pillow doesn’t look like what you would expect – that’s because it was designed by an Ergonomic Designer in consultation with a Doctor of Chiropractic. The goal to a sound sleep is ‘Spinal Alignment’. Because you sleep on your back, side, or both, this pillow was created to work for each sleeping position. The ergonomic design offers correct support and stability in sleeping posture. The result is a more sound sleep and less tendency to wake with pain, stiffness and many of the symptoms resulting from lack of support
