By Loraine Roane


The spine is composed of thirty-three bones. There are seven referred to as the cervical spine. As a prominent Gresham chiropractor would attest, they manage to support the full weight of the head.

This seems amazing since the head is heavy, approximately twelve pounds. The cervical spine allows for movement of the head in multiple directions. Due to this flexibility, the neck is prone to painful injuries.

Among the possible causes for neck pain are automobile accidents and the aging process. Even repetitive movements and remaining seated all day may be at fault. Stress can cause the muscles to tighten up.

Whiplash is most often the result of an automobile crash. When the head is jerked forward and immediately jerked backward it damages the soft, connective tissues and muscles. The pain can be excruciating.

Joints, intervertebral discs and nerves may be damaged on impact. Manual adjustments can be administered by a chiropractor to alleviate this pain. However, a suitable care plan can only be started after a thorough assessment of the condition of the neck.

Questioning and a physical examination will be conducted during your first office appointment. The questions will relate to the level of pain and how disabling it is.

A neurological exam tests for muscular strength and reflexes. The nerves may have been altered in the accident. In some cases the hurting radiates to include the head and shoulders. An x-ray is often used.

Many individuals prefer conservative chiropractic care because it is a non-invasive and drug-free method. After a fracture is ruled out, manual adjustments to the neck can be started. Increased range of motion and improved mobility are major goals. Of course, reducing the pain remains the primary goal.

Each care plan is designed for one person and one specific injury. Massage and mild exercise might be added to the manual adjustments. Another person with your level of pain may need a different method of care. Each person is unique and each injury is as well.




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