Neck and Back Pain

Neck and back pain are common complaints and something most of us experience sooner or later. Professional athletes may be injured, have pain and finish the game, but they will get treated immediately afterward. They know that their quick recovery can make or break their career. Whether or not you are an athlete, life is your game. If you experience neck or back pain,being aware and taking appropriate action can make a huge difference.

Most neck and back pain can be relieved fairly easily but can become chronic and debilitating if left untreated. Pain of this type falls into several categories. First, and most obvious, is pain caused by an acute injury, such as a fall or motor vehicle accident. Pain may also be caused by an underlying medical condition. For example, kidney problems, menstrual pain, abdominal and disc issues often cause back pain. Repetitive motion such as shoveling, gardening, lifting and bending, especially when twisting, can also cause pain. A body that is not well hydrated or well nourished and deconditioned, especially when weak in core strength, is prone to injury and pain. Poor posture, often overlooked, is also a major contributor to back and neck pain. It can result from any of the other factors or a combination of them.

One common scenario is a person who has weak abdominal muscles and some old injuries as well as tight abdominal scar. He works in a job that requires a combination of forward bending with long periods at the computer. He has been working long hours, tries to maintain his yard and then has a “minor” motor vehicle accident. The back pain seemed to get better at first, but after a few weeks, he is not only experiencing back pain, but it has become worse. He notices his neck is also painful, and he has developed headaches.

He is locked in a pain-tension-pain cycle. It hurts, so he tightens. The tightness causes pain and the pattern repeats. Topical preparations, medication, spinal adjustment and injections aim at bringing down the inflammation and breaking this cycle. However, if soft tissue issues, postural patterns and underlying causes are not addressed, the stage is set for a downward spiral of pain and dysfunction when the person returns to previous activities. We tend to adapt to limitations which, over time, can lead to further postural problems and finally a breakdown – just like the straw that broke the camel’s back.

The first step is prevention, including good body mechanics, core strength, stretching, plenty of water, good nutrition and counteracting stress. However, if you are in pain, recognize and identify the source of the pain so you can do something about it before it becomes a major problem. Reviewing your recent activities for stressors can be helpful. Use ice in the first 24 to 48 hours after an acute injury and heat for residual stiffness. Topical preparations can also be helpful. In addition, rest and gentle stretching will usually relieve symptoms. However, if pain persists or something feels “off”, it is important to seek help.

A specially trained therapist who assesses postural imbalance, movement patterns and soft tissue tightness uses these as valuable tools to determine where the body is restricted. Looking further at strength, range of motion, endurance and lifestyle completes the picture. Manual therapy including myofascial release can release restrictions and change holding patterns even with chronic conditions. Assessment of work and home activities are critical to determine areas of risk and modify when possible. Specialized exercises or adaptive equipment is needed. With treatment and the right tools you can be at the top of your game.

#health