Neck pain is a common complaint among many individuals, with estimates suggesting that up to 70% of people will experience neck pain at some point in their lives. While it may seem logical to assume that neck pain is solely related to issues in the neck itself, the reality is that the source of the problem may lie elsewhere in the body.
IT MIGHT NOT BE YOUR NECK
In order to understand why neck pain might not even be a neck problem, it is essential to recognize that the body is an integrated whole. This means that all parts of the body are interconnected and influence each other. In the case of neck pain, it is important to consider the relationship between the cervical spine (neck), thoracic spine (upper back), lumbar spine (lower back), and pelvis.
The cervical spine connects to the thoracic spine, which connects to the lumbar spine, and then on to the pelvis. This whole chain of the spine is responsible for supporting the weight of the head and maintaining proper posture. Additionally, the spinal cord runs through the center of the spine, transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
A RECENT EXPERIENCE
I had a patient a few months back that came in with very limited motion in her neck and constant pain. While I did some work on her neck the vast majority of her adjustments were to her upper and mid back. Within a few weeks her chronic neck pain was improving and by the time we were done it was resolved. Her problem causing her neck pain was coming from her upper back.
IT’S ALL CONNECTED
Any change in position, balance, or motion anywhere in the spine can have a ripple effect and affect the entire spine. This means that problems in the lower back or pelvis can potentially cause symptoms in the neck. In fact, the neck often experiences symptoms because it is the last place that can compensate for problems occurring below.
THE PELVIS IS YOUR FOUNDATION
To understand this concept further, let’s take a closer look at the foundation of the spine – the pelvis. The pelvis acts as the base upon which the rest of the spine is built. If the pelvis is imbalanced or misaligned, it can cause a domino effect, leading to problems that travel all the way up to the neck.
For example, an individual with a tilted or rotated pelvis may have one leg that appears shorter than the other. This imbalance can cause uneven weight distribution throughout the body, leading to compensatory changes in posture and movement. As a result, the muscles, ligaments, and joints in the neck have to work harder to maintain stability and alignment. Over time, this increased workload can lead to neck pain and discomfort.
CORRECTIVE CHIROPRACTIC
So, how can corrective chiropractic help address neck pain that may not even originate in the neck? Corrective chiropractors take a holistic approach to examine the entire spine, including the pelvis, to identify any imbalances or misalignments that may be contributing to the problem. By correcting these underlying issues, the chiropractor can help restore balance and function to the entire spine, alleviating symptoms in the neck.
GRASS VALLEY CHIROPRACTIC
In Grass Valley, there is a highly reputable chiropractic clinic called Life Chiropractic that specializes in corrective chiropractic care. Their team of experienced chiropractors understands the interconnectedness of the body and the potential sources of neck pain that may not be apparent at first glance.
By addressing the root cause of the problem, Life Chiropractic in Grass Valley aims to provide long-lasting relief for individuals suffering from neck pain. They utilize a variety of gentle and effective chiropractic techniques to restore proper alignment and function to the spine, helping individuals regain their mobility and live pain-free lives.
In conclusion, neck pain may not always be a neck problem. The body is an integrated whole, and any change in position, balance, or motion anywhere in the spine can affect the entire spine. The neck often experiences symptoms because it is the last place that can compensate for problems occurring below, especially if the foundation of the spine, the pelvis, is imbalanced. Corrective chiropractic, such as the services offered at Life Chiropractic in Grass Valley, can look beyond the neck to address the underlying issues and provide effective relief for neck pain. So, don’t just focus on the neck when seeking treatment for neck pain – consider the whole body and find a chiropractor who can help you achieve long-term relief and optimal spinal health.
About Dr. Berkowitz
Bringing more than 3 decades of practice experience, Dr. Bill Berkowitz focuses on balancing and corrective care, applying his expertise to provide patients with predictable, repeatable and measurable results.
Dr. Bill consistently strives to enhance the well-being of his patients by addressing the root imbalances of their problems and promoting optimal balance, alignment, and function of the spine and nervous system.
Bill’s wealth of knowledge and experience has allowed him to develop a nuanced understanding of the human body and its intricate connections. With each adjustment, he supports the body in returning to a state of balance that goes beyond mere symptom relief, focusing instead on long-term correction for his patients’ well-being.
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