Neck Pain – What could be causing it?

Neck pain – when clients come in with neck pain, the main question they ask us is what could be causing it. A whopping two-thirds of adults experience neck pain at some point in their lives. The intensity can range from mildly nagging to completely debilitating.

At Reco spinal centre, our Bristol chiropractors and spinal therapists care for patients with neck discomfort. This is because misaligned spinal bones (vertebrae) are a well-known cause of neck pain. Read on to learn more about the spine’s connection to neck pain and ways you can prevent being immobilised by it!

What are the cervical vertebrae?

The cervical vertebrae are the first 7 vertebrae in the spine (from top to bottom), these are known as
C1-C7. These lightweight bones allow for a maximum range of motion and flexibility. Neck pain can be classified into two classifications.

Acute neck pain

There are essentially two broad classifications for neck pain: acute and chronic. Acute neck pain, most often injury-related, is sudden and intense. Acute neck pain tends to dissipate within a few
days, weeks or months. However, lingering spinal misalignments may predispose patients to subsequent conditions once the pain resolves. Including neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Chronic neck pain

Chronic neck pain on the other hand is typically characterised by tenderness and aching lasting more than three months. Poor posture, such as improper ergonomics while working at a computer can lead to chronic neck pain.

The spinal connection

The spine is a chain of intricately arranged bones (vertebrae) connected to form a single functional unit. This bony framework houses the spinal column. Nerves to all parts of the body enter and exit the spinal column through channels between vertebrae. However, when the vertebrae are misaligned, the transmission of nerves may be affected, sparking not only neck pain but also a host of conditions such as headaches, backaches, and pins and needles in the hands and arms.

The team of Bristol chiropractors, and spinal therapists here at Reco spinal centre correct misaligned vertebrae – with safe and gentle manoeuvres called chiropractic adjustments/ manipulations.