How Can a Chiropractor Treat a Painful, Stiff Neck in Fort Worth?

Most individuals have experienced neck pain and stiffness in Fort Worth. For some though, the problem is chronic. This condition is not only an inconvenience, but it can significantly limit your quality of life and keep you from doing the things you enjoy.

Our doctors routinely treat neck pain and stiffness at the Texas Injury Clinic. Here, the team at our Fort Worth, TX, office explains why you should see a chiropractor for a stiff neck, and discusses how this type of treatment can alleviate uncomfortable symptoms.

What Causes Neck Pain and Stiffness in Fort Worth

There are several reasons why an individual may develop a stiff neck. Here are just a few:

• Minor strains: Sometimes the neck can become strained from poor posture, sleeping in an awkward position, or sustaining a sports-related injury.
• Arthritis: Cervical spondylosis (neck arthritis) may cause stiffness as well as associated symptoms like headaches, weakness in the arms or legs, and balance issues.
• Whiplash: Serious neck injuries can lead to whiplash, a condition that may also be characterized by back pain, dizziness, headaches, or burning sensations.

In some instances, neck stiffness is indicative of more serious health problems. For example, neck stiffness is also a symptom of meningitis, or inflammation of the tissue that covers the brain and spinal cord.

Methods for Alleviating Neck Pain and Stiffness

There are plenty of ways to treat the symptoms of neck pain and stiffness. Keep in mind, however, that some approaches only address the symptoms and not the cause.

• Chiropractic Care
  A cervical adjustment by a skilled, experienced chiropractor is the most predictable treatment for a stiff neck. Oftentimes, a stiff neck occurs because of the body’s natural defense against joint dysfunction. When restrictions happen, the tissues around the joint tend to lock up and prevent the joint from moving naturally. At one point, this was probably a helpful evolutionary trait. Today, however, this can cause us to suffer from unnecessary stiffness.
  • Chiropractic adjustments effectively break up restrictions around the joint. The process corrects subluxations and misalignments, releasing trapped blood vessels and nerves. This restores blood flow and encourages the nerves to signal properly again.
• Therapeutic Massage
  Deep soft tissue massage is an excellent solution for a stiff neck. It may be performed as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with a cervical adjustment. During this treatment, the muscles are manually released to restore optimal comfort. Therapeutic massage can dramatically reduce recovery times as well.
• Warm Compresses
  A warm compress applied to the affected area can help loosen tight muscles and alleviate stiffness. For best results, try gentle stretching exercises in between warm compresses. Ask our Fort Worth chiropractic team for stretching recommendations.
• Pain Medications
  In many instances, over-the-counter pain medication can help reduce neck discomfort and stiff neck symptoms. This is only a “band-aid” approach, however. Chiropractic care is often necessary to address the root of the problem.

Contact Our Practice to Learn More

If neck pain and stiffness are affecting your quality of life, we can help. Schedule an appointment at our Fort Worth, TX, practice and find out for yourself how an adjustment can alleviate your pain and discomfort. Contact us online today or call our office at (817) 624-7222.