Ways To Avoid Eventual Neck Surgery
Surgery is a prevalent way that doctors fix neck and upper back pain for their patients. Even though surgery can be highly successful, many people aren't exactly fond of going under the knife. Fortunately, there are several strategies that you can use to avoid needing eventual neck surgery. While you can't completely eliminate the risk of a major neck problem that requires this sort of care, for example, you could unexpectedly sustain an injury that leaves you in need of surgery, there are several simple ways that you can lessen your likelihood. Here are some options.
Don't Ignore Neck Pain
It's easy to put up with a stiff neck or simply dismiss the pain you're experiencing as part of the aging process. The longer you ignore neck pain, however, the worse it can get. Often, it can get to the point that surgery is needed. If you have neck pain of any type, act quickly by seeing a chiropractor or another neck care specialist. The pain is likely a symptom of something being out of balance or alignment, and prompt medical intervention can help to correct the issue and leave you less likely to need eventual surgery.
Follow Your Therapist's Instructions
Whether you visit a chiropractor, a physical therapist, or a massage therapist for help with your neck pain, you can count on this healthcare practitioner giving you some instructions on how to care for your neck. Often, you'll get a regimen of exercises that will strengthen the muscles to help support the spine. These exercises can be challenging to perform or, conversely, they may be too easy and make you feel as though you're not getting any results. It's important that you stick with this regimen, as your practitioner has suggested it for a reason. By following the instructions and building a healthier neck, you'll be less at risk of eventually needing surgery.
Avoid High-Risk Activities
If you're experiencing neck pain as a result of certain activities that you perform, your healthcare practitioner is apt to recommend some changes. This advice is valuable, as it could be the difference between living with a healthy neck and eventually needing surgery. Certain activities dramatically increase the risk of eventual neck surgery. For example, if you practice certain martial arts that involve grappling, the odds of a neck injury as a result of your neck constantly being cranked by your opponent are higher than those of someone who gets exercise in a gentler manner.
For more information, talk with a care provider like those at Beltline Chiropractic.