Chronic Neck Pain Myths And Misconceptions
If you suffer from chronic neck pain, chances are you have tried every treatment recommended by friends and family or home remedy you could find. Unfortunately, a lot of the information you have learned about chronic neck pain and some of the treatments you have attempted is based upon misconceptions about this common condition. Here are a few of the most common myths about chronic neck pain you should not believe.
Neck Pain Is an Unavoidable Part of Aging
Your neck pain has been getting worse as you age, so you assume it must be a natural part of getting older. In reality, just because you are starting to age does not mean that you will automatically develop neck pain, or that your neck pain will worsen. Even if your parents or grandparents suffer from neck pain as they age, it does not mean you will, as well.
There are not any genetic causes of chronic neck pain, and you do not have to accept that your neck pain is something unavoidable. Instead, work with your doctor to determine the cause of your chronic neck pain and ways you can find relief.
I Can Only Get Whiplash from a Car Accident
Whiplash is a common cause of both acute and chronic neck pain and many mistakenly believe that you can only develop whiplash after an automobile accident. Whiplash occurs when there is an incident that causes your neck to be violently thrown back and forth. The resulting neck pain, fatigue, dizziness, issues with range of motion, and headaches can last for several weeks or months after the incident occurred.
In reality, whiplash can occur from several other incidents, including a fall or even a sports injury. If you suspect you have whiplash and are experiencing the symptoms associated with whiplash, contact your physician right away.
It Is Impossible to Prevent Neck Pain
Finally, many with chronic neck pain believe that it is impossible to prevent additional neck pain in the future. With the help of your physician, you can find the right treatment for your chronic neck pain and how to prevent additional neck pain in the future. For example, a repetitive activity at your job or poor posture are both simple causes of chronic neck pain. Your doctor can help you determine the underlying cause of the condition and provide tips to help you prevent more neck pain in the future.
There are several common myths and misconceptions surrounding chronic neck pain that you should not believe. Contact your doctor with any more questions you might have. For more information about neck pain treatments, contact a local chiropractor, such as Eric Schmetterling DC.