When most people think about chiropractic care, they think about treating back pain and related ailments. This makes perfect sense, as much of what gets discussed around chiropractic care involves spinal health and treatments like spinal manipulation and adjustment. While all of that may be true, chiropractic care isn’t limited to treating the spine.
Another common element of chiropractic care is easing tension and relaxing your muscles. This is often done through massage or using specialized tools. So, how can chiropractic care help relieve tension in the neck and shoulders?
What Does Tension in Your Neck Feel Like?
Unfortunately, tension in the neck is all too common. Since our neck is designed to support the weight of our head and to be very flexible, it can be easy to build up tension, strain, or pull muscles in the area. You may not even realize that you’ve built up tension, so it’s important to remember certain symptoms of neck tension like:
- Tightness
- Stiffness
- Spasms
- Pain or discomfort when turning your head
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, which can either creep up on you slowly or appear very suddenly and painfully, it’s a good sign you have a great deal of tension in your neck.
Is Neck Tension Dangerous?
Neck tension isn’t necessarily dangerous. However, if neck tension was caused by a car accident or a similar traumatic injury, you should consult with a doctor immediately. Additionally, if neck tension is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, nausea, headache, and pain extending into your extremities, you should consult with a doctor as soon as possible.
Some dangers with neck tension could quickly become safety hazards. For example, if your neck tension is preventing you from turning your head properly before changing lanes or turning while driving, you should not be driving as you’ll be a hazard to yourself and those around you behind the wheel.
Can Shoulder Tension Cause Neck Pain?
Neck and shoulder pain can often go hand in hand. A common instigator of tension in those areas is stress. Some of the most effective ways to help alleviate tension in your shoulders and neck are through exercise and massage. Chiropractors have a unique skill set that lends itself well to treating the affected area, including massage and spinal manipulation around the neck.
Total Chiropractic Care Helps Relieve Tension in Your Neck and Shoulders
While tension in the neck and shoulders may be common, that doesn’t mean you have to live with the pain and discomfort. Total Chiropractic Care is a facility that provides chiropractic care as well as physical therapy and lifestyle advice that could help you to alleviate your chronic pain tailored to your needs. Contact us today, and we’ll work with you to find the best treatment for your needs.