Neck pain is a common complaint among people of all ages and lifestyles. Whether it’s due to poor posture, injury, or other health conditions, neck pain can disrupt your ability to function in daily life. Dr. Karen Feeney, the chiropractic provider at Athena Chiropractic in Wilmington, Delaware, is experienced at assessing neck pain and helps patients find relief through non-invasive means. On this page, we’ll explore some common causes of neck pain and the treatments we offer, including the Activator Technique, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), and laser therapy.
Common Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain can result from many factors, and understanding these causes is necessary for getting the right treatment. One of the most common contributors is poor posture, particularly from prolonged looking down at screens. (This is often called “tech neck” or “text neck.”) Keeping the neck bent forward can lead to muscle strain and tension.
Injuries, such as whiplash from car accidents or sports-related injuries, can also result in neck pain. These injuries may cause inflammation and muscle spasms, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. Additionally, degenerative conditions like arthritis or disc disease can contribute to chronic neck pain, as they affect the structures of the spine and surrounding tissues.
Emotional stress can further contribute to muscle tension, as can a lack of adequate sleep or hydration.
The Activator Technique
One of the treatments Dr. Feeney provides at Athena Chiropractic is the Activator Technique. This gentle way of performing chiropractic adjustments is done with a handheld instrument to deliver precise, controlled impulses to specific areas of the spine. The Activator Technique is particularly beneficial for people who may be apprehensive about traditional manual adjustments or those with acute pain.
Adjustments restore proper alignment to the spine, reducing nerve irritation and improving the balance of forces within the musculoskeletal system. Many patients report relief from neck pain and improved range of motion quickly following treatment.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is another valuable tool for managing neck pain. This therapy involves the use of low-voltage electrical currents delivered through electrodes placed on the skin. TENS works by stimulating the nerves and blocking pain signals from reaching the brain.
TENS therapy is particularly useful for muscle tension and spasms, making it an excellent option for people experiencing neck pain due to stress or overuse. Many of our Wilmington, Delaware, patients find TENS to be a relaxing way to manage their pain, often incorporating it into their general treatment plan.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy utilizes focused light energy to promote healing and reduce inflammation. This non-invasive therapy stimulates cellular repair in tissues beneath the skin and dilates blood vessels.
For people suffering from neck pain, laser therapy can help alleviate discomfort and accelerate the healing process. It is particularly beneficial for conditions such as muscle strains, ligament injuries, and degenerative disc disease. Patients often experience a reduction in pain and improved mobility following laser therapy sessions.
Partner with a Chiropractor for Lasting Neck Pain Relief
Neck pain can be a debilitating condition, but there are non-invasive options to help you find relief. By identifying the underlying causes of your neck pain and utilizing treatments such as the Activator Technique, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, and laser therapy, as well as massage therapy and nutritional care, we can help you regain your comfort. If you’re struggling with neck pain, call Athena Chiropractic, the Wilmington, Delaware, practice of Dr. Karen Feeney, DC, at (302) 543-4227.