Chiropractic Management of Postural Cervical Strain

Judy's chiropractor outlines a treatment program: 10 sessions involving gentle manipulation of the mid-cervical region, upper and mid-back to aid the return of normal motion to the fixated spinal joints. The cervical spinal muscles and ligaments and the nervous system depend on proper motion in the spine. Spinal manipulation is an efficient means to stretch soft tissue, stimulate the nervous system, increase vascular supply, and help reduce muscle tightness and inflammation.

Judy's chiropractor combines gentle manipulation procedures with muscle techniques, hot and cold packs, and ultrasound. She gives Judy neck exercises to maintain increased motion gained during treatment and to strengthen the neck muscles.

To address the cause of Judy's problem, the chiropractor gives her suggestions to improve her workstation and posture at work. A back support for her office chair is suggested. She is asked to try to sit back in the chair with the lower spine in an inward curve (called a lordotic curve). Maintaining good support for the low back will help Judy to improve her upper body posture and help prevent a "slumping" of the shoulders, which contributes to postural stress.

After a few sessions, increased motion in spinal segments is achieved. The muscles are looser and Judy finds it easier to sit up without rounding her shoulders. At the completion of her treatments, Judy is much improved with no arm pain or numbness, increased motion in her neck and upper back and decreased muscular tightness.