Participation in a variety of sports is crucial to maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. Playing sports has also been proven to help keep a person happier and more social. However, playing sports can also put a lot of strain and stress on the muscles and ligaments in the body, particularly the ones in the neck.
What Is Neck Pain?
Neck pain can be caused by anything from a direct blow to the head or shoulder, or something as small as a minor strain. The type of injury sustained will also determine how much pain a participant will experience. Hyperextension and hyperflexation, the sudden movement of the neck forwards or backwards, can tear ligaments, causing a sprain. Another common type of neck injury is referred to as a burner or stinger, which are received when the head is pushed to one side or the other from a fall or blow. Nearly seventy percent of football players report receiving at least one injury of this type in their lifetime.
Injuries can also be sustained by those participating in non-contact sports, such as biking, swimming, and skateboarding. Even when wearing preventative equipment, those with active lifestyles can still sustain minor injuries or experience aches and pains.
When Should Patients Be Concerned?
Even when the injury seems minor, it’s always important to have this type of pain looked at and treated. Serious neck injuries can repeat themselves throughout the patient’s life, and in some cases can cause severe spinal cord damage. Pain that doesn’t go away on its own, shooting pain originating from the source of the injury and that radiates down the patient’s arms or legs, and any numbness or weakness should always be reported to a physician immediately.
What Can Be Done To Relieve The Pain?
Even minor pain can be disruptive to a patient’s life. Sleeping, driving, and even communicating with others can all be impacted by a neck injury. There are a number of options available for people experiencing neck pain in the Chicago area. Chiropractic services are ideal for these types of injuries. In addition, patients can turn to deep tissue therapy, acupuncture, and physical therapy to help heal from a neck injury.
Chiropractic services are also ideal for those who regularly participate in sports, as patients can also be advised on preventative care. Certain stretches, weights, and regular visits to a chiropractor can keep the patient’s whole body, not just his or her neck, from future strain- and stress-based injuries.
If you have questions or concerns about neck pain in Chicago, contact Chicago Chiropractic & Sports Injury Centers at http://www.sportsinjurycenters.com.
