Does Neck Pain Get Worse Before It Gets Better?

Healing isn’t always a linear process. After an accident or a diagnosis, you may be unsure of what’s normal for chronic pain. Everyone is different, and so should the care you receive. If your pain has worsened, you are likely wondering whether your symptoms are normal. Our chiropractors at Integrated Health Solutions can help. 

While a slight increase in pain is typical for certain health conditions, worsening symptoms may be a cause for concern and should be evaluated by a health specialist. Here’s what to know about pain that worsens and whether it’s time to see a chiropractor.

Reasons Neck Pain Worsens

Neck pain often appears as a dull ache in the shoulders through the base of the head. In some cases, the pain is intense and may worsen with movement. Most cases of neck pain resolve within a few days, particularly if the symptoms are caused by a muscle strain or another simple injury. For more complex problems, such as whiplash, the pain can last for weeks or even months and be accompanied by stiffness or swelling. 

If you already have an injury or health problem that causes neck soreness, certain habits may make the pain worse by disrupting the healing process:

• Poor posture 
• Prolonged sitting and inactivity
• Spending too much time hunched over a computer or cell phone
• Inadequate neck support during sleep
• Stress, which may lead to a clenched jaw or tense muscles

Everyday strains may not seem like a big deal, but the damage increases over time. After an injury, it is typical for the pain and stiffness to worsen for a couple of days before it begins to fade. Support your well-being by visiting a chiropractor weekly. We can help ensure the healing process continues smoothly and address any potential problems that may be worsening your pain. Follow-up is key to preventing future problems. 

How to Tell If Your Pain is Abnormal

Even though temporarily worsened neck pain is generally common and expected for muscle injuries, there are a few symptoms to watch out for. Worsening pain that radiates down your arms and is accompanied by numbness, tingling, headache or fever can signal an underlying health issue. If your neck pain was caused by a traumatic injury or occurs with weakness in your arm or leg, don’t hesitate to seek immediate medical care. 

How to Care For Your Neck Pain

Minor injuries and sprains in the neck can be adequately managed through a combination of self-care and chiropractic techniques. Cold and hot compress can ease swelling, while chiropractic care can lower swelling and increase mobility. At Integrated Health Solutions, we deliver individualized treatments to support our patients’ long-term wellness. You don’t have to put up with neck pain, especially if it’s worsened. Our medical team delves deeply into a personalized pain management regimen that’s built with your specific needs in mind. 

Call our office to schedule a private wellness consultation to learn more about chiropractic and its benefits on neck pain.