Tendonitis is an injury that can occur in the neck, especially when repetitive motion happens. Tendons connect the muscles to the bones. This is what allows the muscles to move the body. But if a tendon becomes inflamed, it can result in every little movement becoming painful. Today, we are going to pay particular attention to the symptoms and causes of tendonitis in the neck and shoulders. Then we will discuss how a subspecialty of chiropractic can provide safe and gentle support for the healing process, leading to long-term relief.
Table of Contents
When tendonitis occurs in the neck, it can present with a number of symptoms. Here are the primary things you may be feeling:
While there are many potential underlying causes of this issue, we’re going to present four that are very common in modern society:
First of all, it is important to note that inflammation responds well to ice. Heat can actually make inflammation worse, so be sure to use ice on your neck and watch the temperature of your showers.
Second, keep in mind that the tendons connect neck to bone, so proper bone alignment can have an effect both on how easily an injury occurs as well as how long it may take to heal. The upper cervical spine, in particular, can affect all of the structures of the neck. How so?
When the atlas (C1) is out of alignment, the rest of the bones and soft tissue of the neck have to shift to compensate in order to keep the head straight and the eyes level with the horizon. Once the neck is locked in a stressed position, it becomes easier for an injury such as tendonitis to occur. If the misalignment persists, it can cause the tendonitis to take far longer to heal and can lead to chronic pain.
How can you know if an atlas misalignment has been caused by a repetitive motion or sudden strain or even just the effects of poor posture or sleep position?
An upper cervical chiropractor is a practitioner who is focused on just the top two bones in the neck, the atlas and axis (C1 and C2). Using a physical examination along with diagnostic imaging techniques, the practitioner can determine the exact location and degree of misalignment, even down to hundredths of a degree. While that may seem like an insignificant misalignment, it is enough to set off the chain reaction noted above that occurs in an effort to maintain the proper balance of the head.
Once a misalignment is diagnosed and precisely measured, a gentle adjustment (no cracking, popping, or forceful motions) is designed specifically for you. This low force and customized adjustment is designed to be long-lasting, giving the body the time it needs to heal properly.
Once the neck is in proper alignment, remember to be cognizant of what causes the problem in the first place. Good posture should feel natural with the atlas in place. Don’t go back to sleeping on your stomach. And try to avoid the repetitive motions that put pressure on the spine. These lifestyle adjustments, combined with a properly aligned atlas, can lead to a reduction in the pain and stiffness you are experiencing. Schedule a consult with a practitioner near you today to learn more.
TV show host Montel Williams describes how specific chiropractic care has helped his body.
The content and materials provided in this web site are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to supplement or comprise a medical diagnosis or other professional opinion, or to be used in lieu of a consultation with a physician or competent health care professional for medical diagnosis and/or treatment. All content and materials including research papers, case studies and testimonials summarizing patients' responses to care are intended for educational purposes only and do not imply a guarantee of benefit. Individual results may vary, depending upon several factors including age of the patient, severity of the condition, severity of the spinal injury, and duration of time the condition has been present.