Neck Pain In Bethesda MD

Neck pain is one of the most common pain complaints that we receive here at Montgomery Country Chiropractic in Bethesda MD. It can range in severity from slightly irritating to completely debilitating, and there is no real way to tell when one level of pain will progress to the next.

In spite of the fact that it has to support the weight of the head, the neck is actually fairly delicate and can be injured easily.

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What are the most common causes of neck pain?

Neck pain can be caused by a number of things. You can wake up with a stiff or sore neck just from sleeping wrong. Looking down at a computer screen or keyboard all day can also cause stiffness and pain. Injuries caused by car accidents are common as well. In rare cases, neck pain can be caused by a bacterial infection, or by a narrowing in the spinal canal. This is called cervical spinal stenosis.

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What are the symptoms of neck pain?

Neck pain normally manifests itself as a painful knot or overall stiffness in the neck. This can radiate to the shoulders, upper back, and arms as the condition progresses. Many people also experience headaches with varying levels of severity. This condition can also lead to a loss of mobility in the neck. If you’ve ever woken up with a stiff neck that you couldn’t turn to the left or the right, then you have experienced this mobility loss.

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What are the traditional treatments for neck pain?

Pain management is the first step that most people take when treating their neck pain. Over the counter medications can suffice for some patients, while others may require stronger pain killers that must be prescribed by their doctors. Alternating hot and cold compresses can help you alleviate some of the pain and stiffness as well. Beyond that, your doctor will send you for imaging (x-ray, CT, or MRI) to determine the state the bones and connective tissue in your neck. From here, he or she will be able to create an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

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Is neck pain a normal part of life?

No. No pain should be considered a normal part of life, no matter how mild it is. It is becoming more common, but it is not something that should be overlooked or just accepted as normal. Neck pain can become progressively worse if left untreated. In the absolute worst case, it could leave you unable to turn your head due to inflammation and swelling.

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What neck pain treatments do you offer at your clinic?

Chiropractic treatments can work wonders on neck pain where all other treatment options have failed. Our programs focus on massage, manipulation, and mobilization, as well as teaching you a number of stretching and strengthening exercises that you can do at home.

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Do you have any advice for chronic neck pain sufferers?

Don’t let your pain linger. Any pain that lasts for more than a few days, or does not lessen with over the counter treatments should be addressed by your physician.

If you are experiencing neck pain, do not hesitate to contact the team at Montgomery County Chiropractic as soon as possible. Our team is here to help you take your life back.