Neck pain and symptoms can occur in ANY of the structures outlined below. It can originate from incorrect posture/mechanics (joints not moving properly), wear and tear, compression, sprain (ligaments), strain/tightening (muscles) inflammation of the blood vessels/nerves, fractures (bone) or from another area.
Structures of the neck
The neck back comprises of the Cervical spine (C1 – C7 vertebrae). Between each spinal vertebrae are fibrocartilage structures called Discs which allow slight movement and shock absorbancy. The bones are held together and stabilised by ligaments. The joints are further stabilised and moved by the muscles which are categorised into superficial, Intermediate and Deep muscles.
The brain, spinal cord and nerves collectively are known as The Nervous System which is protected by the spine and skull. The spinal cord is housed within the vertebral canal of the spine. From the cord, the nerves exit between each vertebrae to supply the rest of the body. The nerves and spinal cord provide an electical communication network from the brain to the body and from the body back to the brain.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis, therefore can be difficult without the appropriate training. Each practitioner at Future Proof Care is trained to perform a thorough history and examination to gain the correct diagnosis.
History and Examination
When a patient comes to the Practice, they will be asked questions regarding their presentation. Thereafter we will examine the neck, head, upper and low back, shoulders, ribs, pelvis, muscles, limbs or posture. Many mechanical, orthopaedic, neurological and muscle tests will be carried out to arrive at a diagnosis with clinical clarity of what is going on.
Conditions we have diagnosed and/or support
Patients have presented to our Practice with neck pain from a range of causes. These include overuse, trauma or impact, poor posture, sedentary lifestyle, instability, or sometimes pain of unknown reason. We have diagnosed and/or support patients with the following conditions:
- Disc bulge/herniation
- Nerve pain
- Upper cross syndrome
- Radiculopathy
- Facet syndrome
- Whiplash
- Osteoarthritis
- Torticollis
- Neck Strain
We refer some conditions for imaging or further testing to confirm diagnosis. Patients are then, when appropriate, supported with treatment and educated on how to manage and rehabilitate their presentation.
How conditions present
Patients may describe their neck symptoms as some of the sentences below. Each description points towards a certain diagnosis. If you use any of these terms, book an appointment with one of our Practitioners at Future Proof Care, Kings Hill, West Malling.
- Head feels too heavy for neck
- Unable to look down/bend head forward
- Pulling through upper back/shoulder
- Head pain
- Unable to look over left or right shoulder
- Difficulty turning head in the car
- Has to move body to look behind
- “Completely locked” or unable to move.
- “Slept wrong”
- “Draft on the neck”
- “Seized up”
- “Can’t look up”
Why Choose us?
Not all Practitioners within the Chiropractic, Osteopathic or Physiotherapy professions treat neck pain both directly AND indirectly. They may focus more on the neck in isolation. At Future Proof Care, we treat the body as a whole, thereby getting better results quicker.
We first establish what the symptoms are, why you have them. Then we focus on symptom relief and improved function. We are honest and act with integrity, keeping you, your goals and needs at the focus of your care
Don’t let neck symptoms stop you from getting on with your day. Our practitioners go beyond their training in Chiropractic and Osteopathy. We continually attend seminars and stay up to date with the latest research, sports injury and techniques, so our patients can get the best service.
