Neck Pain

Although many of us have most likely experienced some form of neck pain, certain people may be predisposed to chronic and acute neck pain due to their occupation, trauma, or poor posture.

Those who perform repetitive tasks at work, (sitting for a prolonged period of time) are usually at a greater risk of developing neck pain. In today’s world, most of us find ourselves seated for extended lengths of time while work on the computer.

Causes of Neck Pain

Strains or Sprains
Bad posture: If you find yourself hunched forward for long periods of time you can be straining your muscles, as well as sprains (injuries to ligaments) or other problems.
Sleeping in an awkward position: This can be difficult to correct, since you may fall asleep in one position, and wake up in a different, awkward position. However, try and remember the position you were in when you wake up, especially if you wake up with neck pain.
Injuries and Accidents: This is a major cause of acute neck pain and whiplash.
Medical Conditions: Arthritis can cause chronic pain and stiffness, as well as herniated disks in the neck, and illnesses like the flu.
Jaw injuries
Stress: Being stressed or anxious can cause tension in the muscles of your shoulders, back, and neck

Below are some of the more common Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnoses:

Muscle tension
Overuse
Invasion of cold, wind and/or damp
Strain
Bi Syndrome

Best Acupuncture’s Approach to Neck Pain

We take a holistic approach to health. We begin by taking a detailed health history and performing a physical exam to find out where and why your body’s vital energies have become blocked and out of balance.

We will work to relieve your pain, and also, identify and treat the underlying causes. During treatments thin, sterile needles are inserted at specific points along the meridian pathways to help restore the balance and flow of Qi. Our acupuncturists may also recommend changes in diet, herbs, exercises and stretches to help you heal, in addition to your acupuncture treatments.