Neck pain
Optimizing Neck Pain Relief: How Osteopaths Address Posture, Pain, and More
Dealing with neck pain can be incredibly distracting and make everyday tasks a challenge. Whether it's a sporadic discomfort or a persistent ache, an osteopath is equipped to help you find relief. Specializing in manual therapies through osteopathic techniques, osteopaths utilize massage and manipulation of bones and related tissues to improve overall health by promoting mobility and alleviating pain. A skilled osteopath can pinpoint the cause of your neck pain and suggest the most effective treatment. Explore the six most common sources of neck pain and how an osteopath can help:
Posture's Impact on Neck Pain Good posture is vital for managing neck pain. Common postural issues that contribute to neck pain include hyperlordosis (excessive curve in the lower back) and forward head posture. Both conditions add stress to the neck and upper back. Osteopaths can conduct a musculoskeletal assessment to identify imbalances in muscles and fascia (connective tissue surrounding muscles) and apply manual therapies like myofascial release and trigger point therapy to correct them.
Muscular Strain and Overuse For neck pain resulting from muscle strain or overuse, an osteopath will aim to alleviate pain and inflammation by using soft tissue massage and trigger point therapy to release muscle knots. If muscles are particularly tight, stretching techniques can help them relax. Osteopaths can evaluate your neck and upper back and recommend stretches or strengthening exercises to minimize injury risk.
Disc Problems Disc issues, particularly in older adults, are a common cause of neck pain. Spinal discs serve as cushions between vertebrae and can become herniated or bulge out when weakened. Osteopaths can help reduce inflammation and prevent future disc problems by adjusting posture and applying manual techniques to maintain disc health.
Osteoarthritis and Ligament Sprains Osteoarthritis occurs when joint cartilage wears down, resulting in joint and muscle pain. When it affects the neck, it can lead to pain in the neck and upper back. Osteopaths can help manage osteoarthritis-related neck pain by teaching proper posture and movement techniques and applying manual therapies to ease joint pain and stiffness. Osteopaths can also treat ligament sprains in the neck by addressing inflammation, correcting posture, and addressing muscle spasms.
Tension-type Headaches and Migraines Osteopaths can help relieve pain from tension-type headaches and migraines, which often stem from muscles and fascia. They use manual therapies to release tension and offer lifestyle recommendations to avoid triggers, ensure adequate sleep, and maintain a healthy diet. Pressure-point release and myofascial release can be used to address both headache types.
Neck pain can arise from various issues, including muscle strain and disc degeneration. Osteopaths can effectively treat many of these problems, helping you resume your daily activities. Start by consulting an osteopath about your symptoms and medical history. They will assess the area, identify the cause, and suggest a treatment plan. In-office treatments are non-invasive and don't require pain medication. Don't let neck pain hold you back—Book with one of our osteopaths now