Neck Pain

What is neck pain?

Neck pain is pain that emanates from the neck but may include pain over a broad area, including the neck, upper back, shoulder blade, shoulder, and arm. In fact, many people just feel pain in the shoulder blade area, without pain in the neck, which is actually originating from the neck.

Usually, the pain is worsened with movement of the neck and sometimes it’s hard to move the neck at all without pain. This pain presents on a spectrum. It can be mild, chronic background pain, but it can also be severe, incapacitating pain, which makes even concentrating difficult.

With the right care, Dr. Kowal will help you get relief from your neck pain no matter the severity. 

What causes neck pain?

You may develop neck pain after an injury, poor posture, or an underlying degenerative condition that affects the normal structure of your cervical spine.

Common causes of neck pain include:

• Herniated disc
• Sprains and strains
• Pinched nerve
• Whiplash
• Arthritis

The good news is, no matter the cause, you can get relief from your neck pain. 

What happens during a neck pain evaluation?

Dr. Kowal begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the major area of your pain as well as any other areas that may be related to your condition. The goal of the exam is to find the root cause of your pain. During your consultation, Dr. Kowal will review your symptoms, including the types of pain you experience, when they started, and the activities that worsen or alleviate the pain. He then performs a physical exam, paying close attention to your alignment, movement, and mobility. 

While X-rays and MRI’s aren’t usually required before beginning treatment, if needed, Dr. Kowal will make the appropriate orthopedic referral and help you to get a consult scheduled as quickly as possible. 

How is neck pain treated?

Dr. Kowal first addresses the painful areas, whether the result of trauma or chronic overuse, with techniques to eliminate the pain. These methods include gentle joint mobilization, myofascial release techniques, and therapeutic exercises.  He doesn’t use the “cracking type” maneuvers that you may associate with chiropractic care.

Treatment does not stop with attention to the painful areas. In the treatment process, Dr. Kowal also pays careful attention to how you move and hold yourself. Addressing faulty movement patterns can be the key to lasting pain relief.

Most patients experience a rapid improvement in their pain as soon as they begin treatment. In addition to his gentle hands-on techniques, Dr. Kowal also provides a home care program for you to follow after your first visit. This program includes the “what to do” and the “what not to do” so you can get better as quickly as possible.

Don’t let your neck pain keep you from doing the things you enjoy. Contact the office of Dr. Richard Kowal by phone or online today to get immediate and long-term relief.