Whats a good way to deal with pain in my neck and shoulder?

Question

I have just started a month of chiropractic manipulation for my back and neck being out of alignment and its hurting. The doctor has given me a wheat back that provides periodic relief but I'm not sleeping and continually in pain. Any suggestions might help.

Answer 1

alternating hot and cold/ice packs should give you some relief.

heat increases circulation to the area, cold reduces the imflammation. about 10-15 minutes of each for about an hour.

I have had plenty of chiropractic care in my life for multiple injuries they should have instructed you to do so. Also a NSAID (non steroidal anti inflammatory) like ibuprofen will give you some relief.

Answer 2

You shouldn't be in pain. Did he tell you to use ice and heat? I suggest you contact this person A.S. A. P. Chiropractic should give you relief, not cause you pain. Massage helps. I would suggest icing the painful area, no more than 15 minutes, if heat feels good, you can do that, but sometimes heat makes swelling worse and pain is usually from that.

Answer 3

Yes, I get incredible neck pains when under long term stress. I also get occasional heart palpatations. They key here is stress! If you can afford it, try massage therapy twice per week. It doesn't have to be focused on the neck. It's better if the therapist works the whole upper body, shoulders, spine and neck. If you are especially tender on the day of the massage, use your judgement and tell the therapist not to go too deeply. Perhaps, due to the harrassment, you need to speak to a psychotherapist or counsellor. It sounds like you are having difficulty processing your feelings and they are causing your body to tense up and cause pain. The stolen iPod was just the final straw, so to speak. Please speak to your doctor about this. The sooner you deal with your feelings and difficulties, the sooner you will begin to feel better. Nobody needs to feel THAT sort of pain. Life shouldn't hurt.

Answer 4

Other than ibuprofen for inflammation and pain, or other drugs for the pain, try heat. The ThermaCare heat wraps provide a good amount of heat and relief for several hours. They made the pain bearable for me when I had neck problems. They make one that specifically fits across the back of the neck and shoulders.