Neck, Shoulder, and Arm Complaints: Causes and Treatment
After lower back complaints, neck, shoulder, and arm complaints are among the most treated issues by a chiropractor, common conditions include stiff neck and shoulder muscles, whiplash, muscle knots, osteoarthritis, and cervical hernia. Chiropractic treatment can provide relief for many of these complaints.
Symptoms of Neck, Shoulder, and Arm Complaints
Complaints in the neck, shoulder, and arm are common and can result from various causes, such as muscle strain, joint problems, or nerve irritation. Symptoms sometimes develop gradually due to prolonged muscle tension but can also occur acutely after, for example, a wrong movement, fall, or whiplash. Neck pain is often accompanied by radiating pain or discomfort in the shoulder and arm, sometimes even reaching the hands, and can also cause headaches.
Common symptoms that can originate from the neck include:
- Radiating pain to the arms: Nerve irritation can cause pain to spread from the neck to the shoulder, arm, and even fingers.
- Weakness or fatigue in shoulders or arms: Weakness or fatigue in these areas often results from reduced muscle strength and nerve compression.
- Tingling in hands or fingers: A pinched nerve in the neck can cause a prickling, tingling, or numb feeling in the arms and hands.
- Headache or migraine: Tension in the neck muscles or irritation of nerves in the neck can trigger headaches or migraines.
- Dizziness: Nerve pressure in the neck can sometimes lead to balance disorders.
- Concentration problems: Chronic neck complaints can cause mental fatigue and loss of concentration.
Causes of Neck Complaints
Neck pain can have various causes, including:
- Functional movement disorders in the musculoskeletal system, such as joints, muscles, and nerves.
- Poor posture, movement, or overuse
- Wear and tear or osteoarthritis
- Cervical hernia
- Tension and stress
- Whiplash
Consequences of Long-Term Nerve Pain
Long-term nerve pain can significantly impact the quality of life. Common consequences include:
- Reduced quality of life due to constant pain
- Psychological stress from prolonged complaints
- Difficulty with daily activities or work limitations
- Sleep disturbances due to pain and discomfort
- Mood changes, such as stress or depressive feelings
- Lack of understanding from others
Treatment Options
Neck, shoulder, and arm complaints can have a significant impact on your daily life. Chiropractic treatments focus on pain relief and restoring functionality. Chiropractic is a safe and natural way to address neck, shoulder, and arm complaints without medication or surgery.
Contact us for an appointment or more information about our treatment options.