Does neck & upper back pain have you tossing & turning in bed?

One in ten people suffer from neck pain at any given point in time, which can often spread to the shoulders, chest, and upper back, as well as contributing to headaches and migraines. Neck and upper body tightness may also cause you to feel pins and needles or numbness in your arms or hands.

Common factors that contribute to upper back and neck pain include:

• Imbalance of the muscles around the head and neck
• Spending a long amount of time using computers, phones, and tablets
• Sitting down for a long portion of the day
• Repetitive bending and twisting motions
• Stress and anxiety
• Whiplash and sports injuries
• Scoliosis (curvature of the spine)
• Jaw dysfunction

The goals of osteopathic management of neck and upper back pain are to improve your mobility, reduce muscle tension and pain levels, and prevent recurrence of your symptoms.

To achieve these goals, treatment may include massage to the tight muscles to reduce tension, and joint mobility techniques to improve range of motion in your spine, shoulders, and ribcage.

We will provide advice on posture when using computers and handheld electronic devices, and will advise you on appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises for your neck and upper back. We may also offer recommendations on which pillow will provide optimal support for your neck to ensure a good night’s rest.