Neck pain can make it very difficult to get through the day. Pain medication can numb the pain temporarily, but without getting to the bottom of the root cause, neck pain will surely return. For lasting relief from neck pain, you need to consult a doctor who can provide different methods for relieving your symptoms.
One of the most commonly prescribed and highly effective treatments for neck pain is physical therapy. It is almost always part of any comprehensive treatment program designed by an orthopedic doctor. Below, we talk about the critical role of physical therapy in neck pain treatment.
Decreased Pain-Causing Inflammation
Inflammation is a significant contributor to neck pain. Physical therapy programs include modalities that relieve inflammation. These include heat or cold therapy, ultrasound therapy, and electrical stimulation. Reducing inflammation also decreases the level of pain you are experiencing.
Neck Muscles Relaxation and Tension Relief
Physical therapists can employ manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release therapy to relax and release tension in the muscles surrounding the neck. Massage therapy techniques help reduce muscle spasms and loosen up knots and trigger points that contribute to neck pain.
Improved Joint Mobility in The Neck
Stiff neck joints lead to a limited range of motion – even turning your neck to the side can become a pain. Physical therapists are trained in joint mobilization techniques to gently move the joints in the neck and restore normal movement patterns and range of motion. That way, you can have the full function of your neck.
Strengthened Neck Muscles
Physical therapists teach exercises that strengthen the neck muscles, as well as the muscles in the shoulders and back. Weak muscles cause instability, which results in pain. With stronger muscles supporting the neck, pain can be eased and worsening of the symptoms can be prevented.
Posture and Alignment Correction
Poor posture and alignment are the underlying cause of many cases of neck pain. Your spine needs to be in proper alignment to help distribute the forces and stresses of daily life and motions evenly throughout the spine. A physical therapist can assess your posture and teach you how to correct it in order to reduce pressure on the neck.
Education and Self-Management
Physical therapy programs usually include patient education, where patients are taught about their condition, as well as proper body mechanics and ergonomics, which can be empowering to the patient in preventing chronic neck pain. Proper lifting techniques and the correct workstation set-up, as well as devices that reduce strain on the neck help increase productivity and decrease the risk of neck injuries.
Physical Therapy for Neck Pain in Rochester Hills, MI
Dr. Bradley Ahlgren is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in the treatment of the spine. Dr. Ahlgren treats patients with neck and back pain caused by all forms of spine issues by creating treatment plans that include physical therapy for maximum effectiveness. We offer on-site physical therapy services for your convenience.
It’s about time you receive expert treatment for neck pain. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ahlgren, call our office today at (248) 215-8080, text or call at (248) 840-2035, or use our online form to make your request.
