Chiropractors are trained extensively in Spinal Anatomy; therefore, when experiencing neck pain paying a visit to your local Doctor of Chiropractic is a logical course of treatment.  When visiting a Chiropractic office, the Chiropractor will put patients through a full examination including a variety of tests to reach a conclusive diagnosis.  If necessary, Chiropractors will take X-Rays or even refer patients for further testing such as an MRI.  The Chiropractor assesses the patient using a whole-body comprehensive approach rather than merely zeroing in only at the area of discomfort.  The musculoskeletal system of the body is very interrelated; a misaligned vertebra in the lumbar or low back region can have an immense impact on a vertebra in the cervical or neck region.  The Chiropractor will feel the patient’s spine to analyze areas of restricted movement as well as locate areas experiencing subluxation.  A subluxation results when a misaligned vertebra exerts pressure on a nerve that transmits its signal nearby.  The nerve experiencing pressure still distributes its message from the brain; however, the message becomes distorted resulting in a variety of bodily dysfunctions in organs and tissues receiving nervous supply.  When Chiropractors deliver adjustments to vertebral regions and segments experiencing subluxations, regions of the spine are able to return to fluid motion which facilitates optimal nerve supply to bodily organs and tissues.  Often, after only a few visits, patients experience decreases in neck pain.  Once out of pain, patients often choose to make regular maintenance appointments to prevent both pain and bodily dysfunction from occurring.[1]

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[1] Strasser, A.  (2009).  Chiropractic care for neck pain.  Retrieved July 30, 2009 from www.spineuniverse.com