Undergoing physical therapy for neck pain can provide significant relief for patients experiencing upper back stiffness or radiating pain along their cervical spine. Before you seek physical therapy in West Windsor, NJ, discover some of the common causes of neck pain and how physical therapy sessions can alleviate the tension. The healthcare professionals at Align Health & Wellness share everything you need to know in this guide.
Common Causes of Neck Pain
According to a Global Burden of Disease study, 200 million people experience neck pain every year, with that number expected to increase by 23.5% by 2050. What exactly causes the pain and tension? The following issues remain the most prevalent.
Age-Related Health Issues
Aging can take a toll on your spine since cervical discs degenerate and affect the space between each vertebrae. This condition is most prevalent among adults aged 65 and older with 12.2% of that demographic suffering from neck pain as a result, per a study from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.
Physical Strain Injuries
People of any age can require physical therapy for neck pain if they strain the muscles in their neck. Experts recommend physical therapy to treat neck pain caused by the following:
- Whiplash and car accident injuries
- Poor posture
- Overexertion
- Sudden movements that tear the muscles
Providers like Align Health & Wellness provide physical therapy in Allentown, NJ, to treat all of the common causes of neck pain above.
Mental Stress
According to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 29% of people report experiencing neck or back pain due to stress. Gentle exercises, like the stretches physical therapy patients perform, can not only alleviate stress but also support spinal health.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Patients With Neck Pain
Depending on what causes pain in your neck, physical therapists will come up with a treatment plan to release tension and make you more comfortable. Undergoing physical therapy for neck pain proves extremely beneficial for those with both acute and chronic neck pain.
In fact, a study from the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that therapeutic exercises can reduce the occurrence of neck pain by 53%. See what makes physical therapy so effective for patients experiencing debilitating neck pain.
Increased Range of Motion
When your neck feels stiff, the most basic activities and tasks become a challenge. It can be a struggle to move the neck in any direction but with the help of a trained physical therapist, patients can gradually increase their range of motion. This prevents the muscles from remaining stiff and leading to further problems.
Conservative Treatment Plans
Physical therapy for neck pain remains the preferred treatment because it provides significant pain relief without requiring any invasive procedures. You won’t have to endure any downtime by following a physical therapy plan whereas surgical treatments have a recovery time spanning several months that may also include physical therapy, according to the Hospital for Special Surgery.
At-Home and In-Clinic Practices
Visiting a New Jersey physical therapy clinic will be the stepping stone to your recovery. Professionals will guide you through gentle movements and stretches to strengthen your cervical spine and overcome muscle pain. You can continue these exercises on your own to accelerate your recovery and prevent future injuries or chronic pain due to health conditions like cervical disc degeneration or osteoarthritis.
Seek Physical Therapy in Allentown, NJ, Through Align Health & Wellness
You don’t have to suffer from upper back and neck pain any longer. Visit Align Health & Wellness and begin physical therapy for neck pain to experience some much-needed relief.
Submit our online contact form or call our offices at 609-259-4991 (Allentown location) or 609-799-8444 (West Windsor Township location). Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available. Reach out now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about neck pain and physical therapy treatment below.
How Long Will You Need Physical Therapy Treatment For?
You will need physical therapy until the pain subsides, which usually takes between six and 12 weeks.
Can You Relieve Neck Pain at Home?
Yes, our doctors will give you therapeutic exercises you can do at home to relieve neck pain.
When Should You Visit a New Jersey Physical Therapy Clinic?
You should visit a clinic to receive physical therapy for neck pain if you have a chronic condition like osteoarthritis or experience neck pain after a car accident or other stressful event.