Neck pain

Chronic neck pain and stiffness, occasionally accompanied by radiating pain or tiredness along the upper limb/s, are one of the commonest conditions we see in our clinic everyday. It is a complaint common across all age groups. Neck strain due to everyday repetitive motions, posture while texting on the phone or working on the computer, or an odd sleeping position is something everyone can relate to. Cervical vertebrae are possibly the most delicate bones to carry a load and structurally support the head. The neck muscles and Trapezius are more prone for sprains and stiffness when a person is even stressed.

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Neck pain

Chronic neck pain and stiffness, occasionally accompanied by radiating pain or tiredness along the upper limb/s, are one of the commonest conditions we see in our clinic everyday. It is a complaint common across all age groups. Neck strain due to everyday repetitive motions, posture while texting on the phone or working on the computer, or an odd sleeping position is something everyone can relate to. Cervical vertebrae are possibly the most delicate bones to carry a load and structurally support the head. The neck muscles and Trapezius are more prone for sprains and stiffness when a person is even stressed.

Causative Factors :

  • Muscle strains: too many hours on the computer, driving for long hours, poor sitting posture or even gritting one’s teeth can strain neck muscles.
  • Nerve Compression: Herniated disks or bone spurs in the vertebrae of your neck can press on the nerves branching out from the spinal cord.
  • Degenerative conditions: Osteoarthritis is a common cause of neck pain in the elderly.
  • Old injuries in the past such as rear - end auto collisions often result in chronic neck pain.
  • Red flag: Sudden whiplash injuries following an accident occurs when the head is jerked requires complete neck immobilization as first aid followed by emergency medical attention. Certain diseases, such as meningitis or cancer can also cause neck pain and need conventional medical or surgical intervention.

Methodology :

  • We treat the symptoms of neck pain and stiffness through needling, moxibustion and guasha. This provides relief to sore neck and relaxes muscles spasm. This helps improve neck function and can also reduce stress levels which might play a role in reducing neck pain.
  • By addressing the root cause of neck pain and correcting that, we ensure that pain does not recur again and again.
  • An acute condition that involves neck strain and soft tissue injury will be treated differently than a chronic condition related to the vertebrae and discs.
  • We carefully consider the whole picture of symptoms and lifestyle habits that are contributing factors. So postural correction, best way to sleep, dietary advice and stretching exercises for the neck and shoulders are recommended. Trying an ergonomic office setup to support the neck also helps.
  • A well-placed needle sets off a cascade of events:
  • Through the neurohumoral pathway; producing a signal that travels along the spinal cord to the brain, triggering a release of neurotransmitters such as beta-endorphins, serotonin and enkephalins. (Pomeranz, 1987, Zijlstra 2003, Zhao 2008, Cheng 2009).
  • Reduction of inflammation by promoting release of vascular and immunomodulatory factors thereby reducing pain. (Kim 2008, Kavoussi 2007, Zijlstra 2003).
  • Through enhancing local microcirculation, by increasing the diameter and blood flow velocity of peripheral arterioles. It can repair muscle injuries and strengthen weak muscles or relax tense ones. (Komori 2009).
  • Due to the concentrated placement of acupoints around the joints, it can influence the stimulation of nerve growth factor and bone growth factors; thereby facilitating tissue regeneration. (Gh, He, Ruan Jw, Zeng Ys, X. Zhou, Y. Ding, and Zhou Gh, 2015)

As per Classical Chinese Medicine, regular Acupuncture sessions in the long run promote production and circulation of Qi, blood and body fluids as well as aid the transformation process by eliminating toxins through sweat, urine and faeces. This, in turn optimises immunity, improves appetite, energy levels and sleep, regularises bowel movements and helps manage stress better.

The safety profile of acupuncture is excellent, with very few adverse events when performed by a trained practitioner.
As no two patients are alike, the duration of the treatment vastly depends on the patient’s age, health habits and the severity of the condition.

Related research papers on acupuncture for neck pain :