Neckpain

Function

The uppermost part of the spine consists of seven cervical vertebrae. Together they form a forward curve – as is also found in the lumbar spine. These curves only form after birth. In the cervical vertebrae through the independent lifting of the head and in the lumbar vertebrae through crawling.

The two uppermost vertebrae of the cervical spine differ from the other vertebrae in their structure and function. The Skull is carried on the first cervical vertebra (atlas). It is also connected to the second vertebra (axis) for this purpose responsible for the fact that we can turn our heads to the side. The following five vertebrae are primarily responsible for the fact that we can move our head back and forth. The curve formed by the five lower vertebrae is what makes it possible for our heavy head (3 kg on average). In addition to the fact that from each segment of the cervical spine spinal nerves, the cervical vertebrae, like the rest of the spinal column, protect the “extension of the brain”, namely the spinal cord. the spinal cord.

Wear and tear / osteoarthritis

VeWear and tear in the neck should not be regarded as a disease, as everyone shows signs of wear and tear with increasing age. This is perfectly normal to a certain extent. This degeneration process is easiest to recognize in the intervertebral discs, as they “store” significantly less water over time, which reduces their ability to bear weight or absorb shocks. A change in the vertebral surface can then also be seen on the X-ray; the increased friction due to a lack of fluid makes the surface uneven, which results in a significant restriction of mobility and can also lead to joint stiffness. However, this degeneration process is not necessarily associated with pain.

Nowadays, the wear and tear on joints often exceeds a normal, age-appropriate level. The reasons for this trauma such as a blow or car accident, but hereditary factors, occupational or one-sided strain can also be triggers for excessive wear (osteoarthritis). be triggers for excessive wear and tear (osteoarthritis).

Whiplash

Whiplash is most commonly caused by a car accident. In a whiplash injury, the head is first thrown in one direction and then thrown back in the opposite direction. Depending on the speed, this causes injuries to different types of tissue. Even at low speeds, injuries to the neck muscles, such as torn muscle fibers, can occur. At high speeds, injuries to the ligaments and tendons and even the joint capsules can also occur. The symptoms of a whiplash injury can vary greatly, with patients most frequently reporting a stiff feeling in the neck and shoulder area and pain in these areas, as well as headaches. However, the symptoms can lead to dizziness and visual impairment, although it is not unusual for the symptoms to first appear six months after the accident.

Other diseases

The above-mentioned problems usually have a mechanical cause, which in almost all cases can be traced back to incorrect behavior during everyday activities. Nevertheless, it is important to be aware that diseases such as gout, osteoporosis, deformities of the vertebrae, metastases, etc. can also cause neck pain. can also cause neck pain.

Prevention

There are many causes of neck pain, and often the trigger for the discomfort cannot be avoided. The chiropractor (Doctor of Chiropractic) is trained exclusively for the treatment of misalignments of the skeleton and the resulting dysfunctions. If a patient visits a chiropractor and he diagnoses a misalignment of the neck vertebrae, he will correct the cause of the discomfort with a targeted treatment of the misaligned segments. Recent scientific studies in the USA and Denmark have shown that chiropractic treatment is one of the most effective treatments for neck pain.