Neck pain shouldn’t be ignored if it’s persistent. A variety of underlying conditions could be causing it, and your pain won’t go away without treating the root problem. Below are four common issues that cause chronic neck pain.

What Could Be Causing Your Neck Pain?

1. Poor Posture

Having poor posture disrupts the alignment of your vertebrae and strains your muscles. Being hunched over your desk, craning your neck when driving, and looking down at your phone extensively are examples of poor posture. If posture is causing your pain, simple actions could improve it, such as using a back-support cushion, adjusting your seat, and holding your phone at eye level. A quality chiropractor will be able to correct the alignment of your spine and relieve pressure on your joints.

2. Auto Accident Injuries

In a car accident, your head is forcefully bounced around, which can result in whiplash and muscle trauma. Even if it’s been months, the pain you’re feeling could be residual from an injury that wasn’t found or treated properly initially. Muscle injuries can be treated with physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, massage, and neck-strengthening exercises.

3. Herniated Disc in the Upper Spine

The discs of tissue that cushion your vertebrae can herniate – where the softer interior pushes through a crack in the exterior of the disc. They don’t always cause symptoms, but if this happens in your upper spine and it presses on a nerve, it can cause mild to severe pain in your neck. If it’s accompanied by tingling, weakness, or numbness in the area or your limbs, your pain is likely caused by a herniated disc.

4. Muscle Injuries

Inflamed or injured muscles in your upper back, shoulders, and neck can cause pain throughout the area. Strain and overuse can aggravate muscle and cause swelling, which results in aches and pressure. Tension also results in muscle pain, such as from gritting your teeth or being stressed out. Tears and pulls from work, exercise, or sports will cause pain to radiate throughout the affected area, too. Often, rest, light stretching, and simple exercises are enough to heal the injury, but lingering pain should be treated by a reliable physician.

If you struggle with chronic neck pain, the reliable professionals at American Health Chiropractic will help. Located in Milford, OH, and serving the Cincinnati area, they’ve offered complete chiropractic care for over 20 years, and they specialize in car accident and workers’ compensation cases. Their advanced care includes chiropractic massage, cryotherapy, spinal adjustments, and manipulation, so whether you have a muscle injury or herniated disc, they have the treatment you need for effective relief. Learn more about their cutting-edge treatments online and call (513) 576-6699 to schedule your free consultation.