whiplash, do not stabilize the head because you may further stiffen the neck, reduce the range of motion and cause increased immobility. Keep you neck active and flexible.

If you have insidious, recurring pain, apply moist heat to the back of the neck and shoulders. Use the heat for periods of 20 minutes, with at least a 30-minute interval between each application.

A word of caution: these are temporary remedies and not a substitute for seeking immediate professional care.

What Can the Doctor of Chiropractic Do to Help?

Doctors of chiropractic are educated and trained in the detection and care of problems of the spinal column and in maintaining the delicate balance of the neck and spine. Your first visit to the chiropractor will include a complete chiropractic examination. X-rays may be ordered to screen for possible underlying pathologies and to reveal extreme distortions in your spine.

If your chiropractor feels that chiropractic care is appropriate in your case, you may be given your first adjustment at that time. This manual procedure will help reduce the misalignments and ease the pressure on the spinal nerve roots. In addition, your chiropractor may advise you on therapeutic exercises, job safety, work-related posture, dietary information and a complete program of chiropractic care.

Back to Top

What Can I Do to Prevent Neck Pain

Your doctor of chiropractic cannot correct painful neck conditions without your help. These steps can help you:

Don't sleep on your stomach because this can cause harmful stretching and twisting of the neck muscles.
Don't stack several pillows - or even one very thick pillow - under your head and neck when sleeping; by doing so you can put stress on the upper back and neck.
Don't watch television or try to read while lying down because this can contort the neck; always sit upright.
Take frequent breaks or change positions when doing work which requires you to bend your neck downward or face the same direction for long periods.
Don't use purses or bags with a shoulder strap because the weight can pull on the neck and disturb the nerves that supply the shoulders, arms and hands. Instead, tie a knot in the shoulder strap and carry the purse or bag in your hand.

Back to Top

Source: International Chiropractors Association

Frequently Asked Questions
Chiropractic Technology
To See is to Know
" The Nerve Doctor "
Subluxation
The First Visit
The SEMG Exam
The Gonstead Method
Adjustments
Family Care
Children and Chiropractic

Do you have problems with or questions about any of these . . ?

Click menu item to find out more







			e-mail: drsully@drsully.com

			\| Home \| Chiropractic? \| Our Practice \| Our Patients \| Wellness \| \| Seminars \| Newsletter \| Words of Wisdom \| Website Index \|

		DISCLAIMER: The information included in this website is meant to encourage thinking concerning choices of care for and insight pertaining to possible causes of various problems. It is not a prescription for OR DIAGNOSIS of any disease or condition. Suggestions are based on the assumption by the writer that a thorough examination was done previously and the reader is under care by a healthcare professional. This information is not a substitute for a live doctor. copyright © 2000 - 2004 Sullivan Chiropractic Health Center. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. Site Hosted by Tri Valley Internet