Neck Pain Specialist

Neck Pain Q & A

Neck pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain with the potential for numbness and tingling in your arms and hands. If you suffer from neck pain, visit Greater Lowell Chiropractic & Rehabilitation in Lowell and North Andover, Massachusetts, for expert care. The team led by John Broderick, DC, and Patricia Tamburro, DC, offers complete neck pain care including chiropractic, rehab, soft tissue therapy, massage, vibration therapy, and cold laser. To set up an appointment, call today or schedule online and begin feeling better sooner.

Why does my neck hurt?

Neck pain can happen to anyone at any time. Certain movements and activities may predispose you to develop neck pain, including:

• Sleeping position, especially on your stomach

• Poor posture

• Workstation ergonomics

• Looking down at a laptop or cellphone for long periods

• Exercise, including running and weightlifting

• Whiplash injuries
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Sudden movements, including whiplash, are an obvious cause of pain, though you can also experience neck pain throughout the course of your normal day, whether upon waking or after a long day at your desk.

What causes neck pain?

Different anatomical structures in the neck may be the source of your pain. Common causes of neck pain include:

• Muscle tension

• Muscle strains or ligament sprains

• Intervertebral joint dysfunction

• Cervical facet syndrome

• Tension headaches

• Spinal stenosis

• Arthritis

• Disc herniations
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Neck pain can occur suddenly after a specific injury or it may be a chronic, irritating issue for you. The team treats all causes of neck pain and provides a variety of therapies to help you recover and prevent future pain.

How is neck pain diagnosed?

During your first visit, the team begins with a comprehensive consultation and exam to understand the location and severity of your pain, along with any pain triggers. The exam begins with muscle strength testing, nerve function tests, and an assessment of your flexibility and range of motion.

Additional orthopedic tests incorporate specific movements that may aggravate or relieve your pain and help your doctors to determine the anatomical source of your pain. If appropriate, the team may also refer you for X-rays or an MRI to determine your diagnosis and rule out more serious causes of pain.