Living with neck pain, whether sharp and sudden or dull and constant, can be debilitating. If the pain worsens when you turn your head, you may not be able to operate a motor vehicle. While it may be possible to achieve lasting relief, you’ll have to identify the underlying cause of the problem first. Here are some possible culprits.

What Could Be Causing Your Neck Pain?

1. Soft Tissue Injuries 

When the muscles, tendons, or ligaments in the neck and shoulders stretch or tear, pain is inevitable. While minor soft tissue injuries typically heal on their own, more severe damage may call for intervention. Treatments might include acupuncture, cupping, heat and cold therapy, pain medication, and muscle relaxants. 

2. Musculoskeletal Conditions 

There are dozens of musculoskeletal conditions that can cause persistent neck pain. Some, like herniated discs, arise from acute injuries, while others, like arthritis, are chronic conditions that can last a lifetime. Thankfully, qualified healthcare providers can help you manage the worst of your symptoms, regardless of whether they were caused by physical trauma or an underlying disease. 

3. Poor Habits

Maintaining poor posture, wearing ill-fitting shoes, and lifting heavy objects with your back instead of your legs are just a few habits that can cause neck pain. If you weren’t involved in a forceful impact, like a car accident, and you haven’t been diagnosed with a musculoskeletal condition, evaluate your lifestyle.

Are you sleeping on quality bedding? Do you stare down at a screen all day at an awkward angle? Sometimes, eliminating neck pain is as easy as modifying your routine.

If you suffer from neck pain that won’t go away, visit Marie A. Gonzales, L.Ac., in Nyack, NY, for relief. For more than two decades, this highly trained acupuncturist has been helping patients achieve optimal health and wellness. Marie aims to provide lasting relief using holistic remedies. To learn more about the procedures she performs, visit her website. To make an appointment, call (845) 398-1312.