Neck Pain
Our neck, also called the cervical spine, contains seven small bones (vertebrae) that support the full weight of your head, which is on average weighs 12 pounds. While the cervical spine can move your head in nearly every direction, this flexibility makes the neck very susceptible to injury and pain.
The neck’s susceptibility to injury is due in part to biomechanics. Activities and events that affect its biomechanics include extended sitting, repetitive movement, accidents, falls and blows to the body or head, as will as normal aging, and everyday wear and tear. Neck pain can be very bothersome and have a variety of causes.
Back Pain
Walking, running and repetitive movement can put intense pressure on the low back, especially the lumbar spine. Add to this improper sitting, lifting, and normal wear and tear you have the perfect recipe for back pain. This is the reason back pain is the second most common reason for doctor visits. Some experts say as many as 80% of us will experience back pain at some time in our lives.
Back injuries are a part of everyday life. They can cause a sharp pain or a dull ache and be accompanied by a tingling, numbness, or burning sensation. You also may feel weakness, pain or tingling in your pelvis and leg a condition known as sciatica.
If you experience back pain, Dr. Herlihy can perform a physical exam that will observe your posture, range of motion and physical condition, while noting movements that cause pain. He will check your spine, note its curvature, movement, alignment, and feel for muscle spasm. In some instances, additional tests may be necessary to help diagnose your condition
Chiropractic care offers a system that manipulates joints to treat pressure and tension issues. An adjustment can be quick, pain-free, non-invasive, and doesn’t involve medications. Many patients report feeling better than they had before they even had the back ailment. Your individual care plan will address your unique issues and will lead you to the best solution for back pain.