Neck pain, upper back pain and headaches

Although neck pain can be caused by injury, such as ‘whiplash’ injuries, it is often caused by the cumulative effect of improper sitting posture, reading in bed, poor work habits, stomach sleeping, previous injuries and falls, stress, lack of proper exercise and other lifestyle-related factors. 

All these factors cause mis-alignments in the spine, neck and upper back adhesions (scar tissue) and eventually pain. In fact, neck pain is one of the single most common causes of disability worldwide. Neck pain can have a wide range of causes and symptoms, from localized pain to pain that radiates down the back, shoulders, or hands and fingers. Headache and migraine symptoms may be unique each episode but still cause reduced focus at work and performance. Headaches affect a large portion of the population, with 90% of those headaches being of the tension type category. At least 20% of the population suffer from tension type headaches on a regular basis. These headaches are often felt behind the eyes, over the top of the head, and at the base of the skull. The question to ask yourself is what is the cause of tension headaches and what can you do about them? 

• Tenderness, Pain, and/or Stiffness in the Neck
• Upper Back Pain or Aching
• Radiating Pain, Numbness, Tingling or Weakness Into One or Both Arms
• Headaches 

• Head Pain 
• Pressure around the head or forehead 
• Tenderness around the forehead or scalp

• Sprain/Strains
• Cervical Disc Injuries
• Overuse
• Adhesion
• Sports Related Injuries
• Arthritis 
• Poor Posture
• Tension Headaches and Migraines           

Neck pain is not always easy to fix! Most cases have developed over time and require more than just a “quick fix.” Here at Discover Soft Tissue + Spine we help patients who are suffering from neck pain and headaches without the use of anti-inflammatory medicine, muscle relaxers or pain killing drugs. We use complete functional movement screenings of the neck so we can narrow down the exact problem and tissue(s) that need to be fixed. We utilize manual soft tissue treatments, spinal manipulation, exercises and stretches to work on relieving pain, improving range of motion, and correcting complications associated with neck and upper back pain. This neck and upper back pain often contribute to headaches. A better diagnosis in our office, means better treatment, and faster results for you! 

Can neck pain be a sign of something more serious?

While neck pain is an extremely common issue for people it can occasionally be a sign of more serious problems. If your neck pain is accompanied by numbness or weakness in your hands and arms, you should seek professional medical care.

Can neck pain cause headaches?

In short, yes. Cervicogenic headaches typically start in the neck and radiate up one side of the head and into the forehead, temple, eyes, and ears. Occipital neuralgia is another headache that starts in the neck and causes sharp pains in the back of the head, neck, and ears.

Can neck pain cause shoulder pain?

The neck and shoulders often work together and it’s not uncommon for pain and other symptoms to overlap. 

If you're experiencing any of the following pain, we encourage you to learn more about our treatment options.

· Neck pain

· Shoulder pain

· Low back pain

· Hip pain

· Knee pain

· Sciatica

If you are suffering from neck pain or upper back pain in the Grand Rapids area give us a call today at 616-956-1112 to set up an appointment or click here request an appointment!