Neck Pain and Traffic Accidents
Many of us spend a great deal of time sitting, or working at computers, or performing repetitive tasks. This often causes postural problems and muscle tension in the neck, which may give rise to headaches, migraines or other pain. In addition, muscle tension caused by such stress and fatigue can put extra pressure on the joints of the neck which can irritate the spinal nerves. This can sometimes lead to pain, known as 'referred' pain, in other parts of the body or numbness or 'pins and needles' in your shoulders, arms and hands. If a pain has not improved after several days or if a problem keeps occurring in the same area, a visit to BritChiro Clinics is advisable. The neck is very vulnerable, as it supports the weight of your head with the aid of a highly mobile system of muscles and ligaments. Falls and blows to the neck can cause neck injury, but it has been estimated that the majority of all neck injuries are the result of motor vehicle accidents. Whiplash is a general term used to describe any injury (including diving accidents and falls) where the neck has undergone a sudden acceleration or deceleration. Many people sustaining such injuries still have significant pain eight months after the accident, and many suffer intermittent pain for up to two years.
If you have been in an accident, it is wise to consult your Chiropractor as soon as possible. Your GP may have checked at the time that you have no fracture, dislocation, paralysis or open wound, but even if he or she finds no serious injury, the nerves branching out from your neck may be under stress, which is often why many people are still in pain months afterwards. A Chiropractic evaluation of their spinal function often reveals the cause to be a problem we can help them with. Chiropractors are primary practitioners, which means you do not need to see your GP before consulting BritChiro Clinics.
