Neck pain relief starts with finding out why your neck hurts. At HealthSource Chiropractic of Roseland, Dr. Jenna Patel, D.C., looks for the source of the problem, not only the symptoms. If you sit at a desk all day, you may know the feeling: a stiff, sore neck by midafternoon. This page explains common causes, how we evaluate your neck and what care may help.
Why desk work strains your neck
Your head is heavy, and your neck holds it up all day. When you lean toward a screen, the muscles at the back of your neck work harder. Over hours, that extra load can leave them tight and tired. Phones add to it, because most of us look down at them for long stretches.
Other habits can play a part too. For example, a low monitor, a chair without good support or a phone held between your ear and shoulder may all strain the neck. Stress can also make you tense your shoulders without noticing.
Stiffness, soreness or a pinched nerve?
Most desk-related neck pain feels like stiffness or a dull ache. You may find it hard to turn your head to check a blind spot. Some people feel tension that spreads into the upper back or shoulders.
A pinched nerve feels different. When a nerve in the neck is irritated, pain can travel into the shoulder, arm or hand. You might notice tingling, numbness or a weak grip. These signs matter, so tell Dr. Patel about them at your visit.
Neck pain can also come with headaches. Tight muscles at the base of the skull may play a part in some of them. Our headache and migraine page explains more. If a crash hurt your neck, read about our care after a car accident instead, since that page covers whiplash.
How Dr. Patel finds the source
Every case is different, so Dr. Patel evaluates you before any care starts. First, you fill out a health history questionnaire. Then you sit down with Dr. Patel to talk about when the pain began, what makes it worse and what your workday looks like.
Next comes a physical exam that checks your posture, mobility and pain. Dr. Patel has extra training in movement analysis, so she watches how your neck and shoulders move together. We take X-rays on site only if they are clinically needed. Finally, she explains her findings and a personalized care plan before any care begins.
Our neck pain relief care options
Your plan depends on what the exam shows. Care for neck pain relief may include one or more of these options:
- Hands-on chiropractic adjustments that aim to help your neck move more freely
- Soft tissue work, including instrument-assisted techniques, for tight muscles
- Progressive Rehab® exercises that aim to build strength and control in the neck and upper back
- Class IV laser therapy, when it fits your case
- Kinesiology taping to support the area between visits
- Posture and workstation tips you can use at your desk
Dr. Patel explains each step and why she suggests it. You can ask questions at any point, and you decide what fits your goals. Our aim is a clear plan with no pressure to add extras.
Want to read more about how chiropractic works? The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health has a plain-language overview of chiropractic care.
Workday habits for neck pain relief
Small changes at work may also help between visits. These are general tips, so ask Dr. Patel which ones suit you.
- Raise your screen so the top sits near eye level.
- Keep your phone at chest height instead of in your lap.
- Take short movement breaks through the day.
- Use a headset for long calls rather than holding the phone with your shoulder.
- Notice when you lift your shoulders toward your ears, then let them drop.
For more on common neck problems, MedlinePlus has a helpful page on neck injuries and disorders.
When to see a medical doctor or go to the ER
Some neck symptoms need urgent medical care, not a chiropractor. Call 911 or go to the ER if you have:
- Neck pain after a serious fall, crash or blow to the head
- A stiff neck with fever and a severe headache
- Sudden weakness, numbness or trouble using an arm or leg
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Chest pain, shortness of breath or jaw pain along with neck pain
Also see a medical doctor if your pain keeps getting worse, wakes you at night or comes with weight loss you cannot explain. If your exam points to a problem outside chiropractic care, we will tell you. This page is for general education and is not a diagnosis.
Start your neck pain relief plan
You can book online or call (973) 200-2424. Ask about our new-patient visit: consultation, exam and X-rays if clinically needed. The offer is for new patients only and does not apply to Medicare, Medicaid, other federal healthcare program patients or ACN members. Our office is at 12 Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 1, in Roseland.