The neck is particularly sensitive to injury due to its biomechanics. Various activities and events can affect cervical biomechanics, including:

• Extended sitting

• Repetitive movements

• Accidents or falls

• Normal aging

• Everyday wear and tear

1. Injuries & Accidents (e.g., Whiplash)

Whiplash occurs when a sudden force moves your head or neck in one direction and then “rebounds” in the opposite direction. This rapid movement can cause strain to muscles, ligaments, and other tissues in the neck, leading to tightening, fatigue, pain, and stiffness. Severe whiplash may affect the joints, discs, and nerves in the neck. Car accidents are a common cause of whiplash, although other types of trauma can also lead to similar injuries.

2. Age-Related Conditions

As we age, certain conditions can affect the spine, including:

• Osteoarthritis: This condition causes the cartilage in joints to break down, leading to bone spurs that can restrict joint movement.

• Spinal Stenosis: This condition narrows the nerve passageways in the vertebrae, which can compress and trap nerves, causing neck, shoulder, and arm pain, as well as numbness.

• Degenerative Disc Disease: Over time, the discs between the vertebrae lose their elasticity and height. This can lead to disc bulging or herniation, causing pain, tingling, and numbness that may radiate down into the arm.

3. Daily Life Factors

Poor posture, obesity, and weak abdominal muscles can disrupt spinal balance and cause the neck to lean forward, leading to strain and pain. Stress and emotional tension can also cause muscles to tighten, resulting in stiffness and discomfort. These factors, combined with postural stress, can contribute to chronic neck pain, sometimes extending to the upper back and arms.

Chiropractors are trained to assist in the management of neck pain through neck adjustments (also known as cervical manipulation). This precise procedure is typically performed by hand and aims to improve spinal mobility and restore range of motion.

Neck adjustments may help to:

• Improve mobility and range of motion in the neck

• Reduce pain, soreness, and stiffness

• Increase movement and flexibility in the muscles around the neck

Many patients report improvements in their ability to turn and tilt their head, but it's important to note that results can vary from person to person. Neck adjustments are one of the many tools chiropractors use to support their patients in achieving better spinal health.