Neck Pain & Disorders in St Paul MN

"When healing is... biomechanically imperfect, chronic disability may follow." ~ T Mayer, MD

In most cases, neck pain in St Paul MN can be dealt with effectively, if the right approach is taken. However, there are a wide variety of factors that can contribute to neck pain. For successful treatment, these factors must be identified and treated as they affect each individual.

Treatment for Mechanical Neck Disorders in St Paul MN

The best treatment for Mechanical Neck Disorders that shows long term relief is comprehensive rehabilitation. This approach that includes pain modalities, stretching, strengthening exercises, spinal adjusting and manual therapy.

Neck and low back pain (spine problems) are a significant issue in the United States. Research has shown that up to 54% of adults had neck pain in the last 6 months (Cote P, Pain, 2004). The natural history of spine pain is often one of complicated and prolonged lifelong symptoms (Borkan J, SPINE 2002). Spine pain is a chronic problem with recurrent painful episodes, similiar to the trends seen with chronic asthma, rather than an acute (new) disease or condition that can be cured (Deyo MD, NEJM, 2001).

Neck pain can be caused by injury, postural strain or other health problems, including some that may have serious consequences. Neck pain is often accompanied by head pain or headaches. Much of neck pain is "mechanical" in origin, meaning it comes from the joints, nerves, muscles and tissues of the neck and spine.

Nearly 70% of the population experiences neck pain at some point in their life. Around 15% of the population live with chronic neck pain. The severity can range from a mere nuisance to major disability. There are a number of potential causes ranging from whiplash injuries to poor posture.

Motor Vehicle Injuries

A significant cause for chronic neck disorders is prior neck injury or cumulative "minor" neck traumas that were never managed correctly. As time then went on, the neck dysfunction (biomechanically imperfect) silently continued until a painful condition developed.

Posture

Another big reason for chronic neck disorders is years of poor posture. Postural distortion often begins as Forward Head Posture (FHP). The March 2000 Mayo Clinic Health Letter states: "Forward Head Posture leads to long term strain, disc herniations, arthritis and pinched nerves".

Finally, neck problems are not normal. They are a signal, from your body to you, to get something handled. If you can't eliminate neck pain easily with lifestyle changes (medication use other than for acute pain, only covers up the neck pain, dooming it to return), then make an appointment to have your neck pain investigated.

To make an appointment at Twin Cities Headache Neck & Back in St Paul MN, please call (651) 925-5530.