Physical therapy is one of the most widely used methods of treating chronic neck pain. The bulk of physical therapy programs for neck pain involves employing treatments to reduce pain and/or stiffness to a point where a routine of neck stretching and strengthening exercises can be started. Plans for physical therapy treatments and the specific exercises and techniques used can vary from person to person.
An estimated 30% of Americans report experiencing neck pain at some point in the year. Neck discomfort can result from ongoing issues with the spine or abrupt trauma like a fall, sports injury, or vehicle accident.
Adults from 30 to 50 years old are most frequently affected by neck pain. According to certain research, women are more prone than males to experience neck pain. Risk factors for neck pain include poor posture, obesity, smoking, repeated lifting, office and computer work, and participation in sports.
Neck pain can make it difficult for a person to work, drive, participate in sports, or even just move their head. The majority of neck pain episodes can be treated with physical therapy and do not require surgery. Physical therapists create customized treatment plans to assist patients with neck discomfort in reducing or eliminating pain, regaining normal movement, and returning to daily activities.
SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS
The injured tissue or structure, along with the degree of the injury, will determine the nature and location of your symptoms.
Any of the following symptoms could be caused by neck pain :
- Incapacity to rotate or bend the neck
- A challenge gazing up
- Gazing over your shoulder was challenging
- Weak shoulders and arm muscles
- Muscles cramping
- Pain in the hands, arms, shoulders, upper back, or neck
- Being unable to sit up or stand straight
- Headaches
- Sleep difficulties are brought on by pain
HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?
Your physical therapist might work with a doctor or surgeon to have specialized diagnostic testing, like an MRI if more serious issues are discovered during any of the tests.
In order to assist you to start the path to recovery and return to your regular activities, physical therapy treatment may start immediately away if your physical therapist discovers any of the aforementioned issues.
TYPES OF PHYSICAL THERAPY TREATMENT
Two popular types of physical therapy are :
- Passive physical therapy:- Therapy that is administered to patients without their active participation is called passive physical therapy. There are many different treatment options, including the use of cold packs, heat therapy, massage therapy, ultrasound, electrotherapy, and others. This therapy reduces pain and swelling.
- Active physical therapy:- It involves the patient moving their own body while performing stretches and exercises. Strengthening and stretching the neck muscles may make them less sore and better able to support proper posture, which relieves pressure on the cervical spine.
Physical therapy for neck discomfort may begin with more passive therapies, but as time goes on, aggressive treatments are likely to become more and more prevalent.
To ensure that you get the proper diagnosis, treatment, and care, your physical therapist will collaborate closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals at Specialty Care Clinics. Contact us at (469) 545-9983 to make an appointment.