Suffering From Neck Pain in Fort Collins CO?

The neck consists of seven cervical vertebrae, intervertebral discs and spinal nerves between each vertebra, and numerous ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Injury to any of these structures can cause pain. Common issues that irritate the anatomical structures in your neck include:

• Poor posture
• Uncomfortable sleeping position, including
• sleeping on your stomach or improper pillows
• Looking down at your computer or phone frequently
• Poor desk station ergonomics
• Exercise or weight training
• Repetitive movements
• Whiplash

Dr. Cook helps you identify your neck pain triggers to prevent discomfort in the future.

If you experience neck pain that doesn’t get better within 2-3 days, you may have an underlying condition causing your pain. Common causes include:

• Intersegmental dysfunction
• Cervical facet joint dysfunction
• Whiplash
• Spinal stenosis
• Degenerative joint disease
• Arthritis
• Sprain or strain
• Spondylolisthesis
• Disc herniations

Joint dysfunction and soft tissue injuries tend to resolve with care the fastest, though they can also become chronic issues — like arthritis or spinal stenosis — if left untreated.

Dr. Cook performs thorough consultations, exams, and imaging to determine the cause of your neck pain. Your visit begins with a consultation to understand the location and intensity of your pain, additional symptoms you may be experiencing, and movements that make your pain worse.

After your consultation, Dr. Cook completes an orthopedic exam of your neck. He has you move through your range of motion to assess for areas of stiffness and then presses on different areas of your neck to check for swelling, tenderness, and pain. He may perform additional tests to checks the discs and nerves in your neck, if appropriate.

Dr. Cook also offers in-house X-rays to better identify structural issues in your spine. Once he’s analyzed your X-rays and exam findings, he explains your diagnosis and treatment options. If needed, he may refer you for an MRI as well.

Depending on the cause of your neck pain, Dr. Cook recommends an appropriate course of treatment that may include:

• Chiropractic adjustments, either using the Gonstead Concept or Torque Release Technique (TRT)®
• Soft tissue therapy, including massage therapy
• Therapeutic exercises
• Rehabilitation
• Acupuncture
• Hot and cold therapy
• Electrical nerve stimulation

Dr. Cook appreciates that every patient has their own unique needs and provides personalized treatment to help you recover.

Get relief from your neck pain by calling or scheduling a visit online at Brave Roots Chiropractic now.