Neck Pain – A Holistic Approach
Many people are affected by neck pain; approximately 1 out of 3 people will experience this symptom in their lifetime. If you are someone who suffers from this type of pain, finding relief may seem overwhelming and impossible. The good news is Dr. Le of ACN Wellness is located in Vienna, VA and has many years of experience helping people just like you.
The use of functional medical practices addresses the entire patient and not just the symptoms. Understanding the causes of your neck pain is the first step in treatment. Finding the right physicians who are ready to understand the patient’s specific needs will lead to more progress in pain management and overall recovery. Dr. Le of the ACN Wellness Centers offers the following methods of treatment:
- Corrective Chiropractic
- Functional Medicine
- Spinal Decompression
- Custom Orthotics
- Dry Needling
- Specialized Postural Corrections
Surgery Should be Last Resort
Although your neck pain may vary, surgery is only recommended if all other options have failed. Understanding the diagnosis and using an approach that is tailored to success will reduce the chances of having to undergo more invasive procedures to find relief.
Symptoms of Neck Pain
Neck pain symptoms may vary in frequency and severity. Some people may experience a sudden and severe pain often referred to as a “crick in the neck.” Ongoing pain in the neck is known as chronic neck pain. Neck pain can also lead down the spine and turn into lower back pain.
The symptoms of neck pain range for slight discomfort to more severe pains that are often described as burning or searing pain.
- Headaches
- The tightness of muscles and muscle spasms
- Difficulty moving your head and limiting the range of motion
- Worsening pain when holding the head in one position such as driving or working on a computer
Regardless of severity and symptoms, there is hope for those with neck pain. Although some pain is chronic and ongoing, others with short bursts of neck pain can be helped as well. From changing sleep positions to functional medicine techniques, relief is available for those who suffer.
Who Suffers from Neck Pain?
Neck pain can be the result of many factors. From illness to injury and aging, certain traumas can lead to chronic or mild neck pain. Although many people are affected; women are more likely to suffer.
Women are more likely to suffer from neck pain than men, but it can affect anyone. Those who have injuries or work in certain conditions may experience neck pain. Neck pain can also be a symptom of a medical issue.
Aging can also increase a person’s risk for neck pain, as the cartilage at the base of the skull tends to weaken; the likelihood of injury or pain increases.
What Causes Neck Pain?
Although the causes of neck pain vary it can be treated properly with the right medical professionals. Common causes of neck pain are:
- Wearing of joints due to aging
- Herniated disks
- Bone spurs or herniated disks putting pressure nerves causing compression
- Straining of the muscles or gritting the teeth
- injuries such as whiplash from a rear-end vehicle collision
Neck pain can be caused by minor situations such as poor posture or sleeping in awkward positions. It can also be caused by medical conditions.
Medical Conditions That Cause Neck Pain
Neck pain can be related to several medical conditions. Treating these conditions as they coordinate with the pain will maximize success.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes swelling and inflammation in the neck. This often leads to difficulty moving the head and neck pain.
Osteoarthritis
Opposed to Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis refers to wear and tear of the joints. This is often common as people age.
Meningitis
Meningitis causes inflammation and swelling in the membranes surrounding the brain. This can lead to neck pain as well as other symptoms.
Cancer
Tumors in the neck or throat may result in neck pain. Throat cancer can also affect the range of motion of the head and lead to soreness in the neck.
Bone spurs
Often caused by herniated disks or with aging, bone spurs can cause compression to the nerves in the neck. This can lead to chronic pain in the neck.
Although these ailments can relate to neck pain that does not mean the individual has to suffer. Using medical techniques that work towards pain relief without adding more stress is preferable to correct the symptoms without adding stress to the patient.
Who to See for Neck Pain?
When choosing a medical professional to help with neck and back pain or discomfort it’s important to check for one with experience who will take the time to understand the patient’s specific needs.
A medical professional who uses functional and integrative approaches will focus on the patient as a whole rather than just the symptoms. By choosing a healthcare provider with this type of medical approach; patients will experience long-lasting relief.
Using a holistic approach allows the doctor to use proven medical techniques to offer non-invasive and effective solutions. Taking the time to understand how habits and medical conditions affect neck pain will also help to provide pain relief.
A doctor who uses functional medicine will work with the patient so that the pair can create a specialized treatment plan that works. Working as a team with a common goal, patients will openly express any concerns or issues they are having in a safe and welcoming environment.
How to Help Neck Pain
The reason for the pain will affect the patient’s personalized treatment plan. Whether exercises and chiropractic options is recommended depends on the underlying reasons for the pain.
If you are suffering from neck pain, whether it’s moderate or chronic, Dr. Le is ready to provide relief. Offering a functional and integrative approach to your treatment plan ensures that you feel comfortable and reach the highest level of pain management without worrying about invasive procedures or additional medications.
ACN Wellness Clinic is dedicated to your care and relief. Contact us today to begin the healing process! Our team of physicians is ready to understand YOUR specific needs! Call: 703-729-5600 to reserve a time to meet with our caring professionals