<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Neck Pain Archives - Intouch Chiropractic</title> <atom:link href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/category/neck-pain/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link></link> <description>At Intouch Chiropractic, your journey to better health is addressed with advanced diagnostics and world-class treatment protocols.</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:06:10 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1</generator> <image> <url>https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/cropped-it-logo-bg-1a-1-32x32.jpg</url> <title>Neck Pain Archives - Intouch Chiropractic</title> <link></link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>Surfer’s Neck: Why Your Neck Hurts After a Surf Session</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/surfers-neck-why-your-neck-hurts-after-a-surf-session/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Devin Young, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Aug 2026 14:00:05 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=5513</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Most of a surf session is spent paddling, not riding waves. For every wave you catch, you likely spend several times longer lying on your board getting into position. That’s...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/surfers-neck-why-your-neck-hurts-after-a-surf-session/">Surfer’s Neck: Why Your Neck Hurts After a Surf Session</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Most of a surf session is spent paddling, not riding waves. For every wave you catch, you likely spend several times longer lying on your board getting into position. That’s the main reason so many surfers deal with neck pain, even though paddling gets a lot less attention than the actual riding.</p> <p>The position your neck holds while paddling is the direct cause of the strain. Understanding that relationship, and knowing when it’s worth seeing a doctor or chiropractor about pain, makes treating the soreness that shows up after a surf session much easier.</p> <p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5541 size-full" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/surfers-neck-pain-san-diego-image.jpg" alt="" width="1536" height="1024" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/surfers-neck-pain-san-diego-image.jpg 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/surfers-neck-pain-san-diego-image-300x200.jpg 300w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/surfers-neck-pain-san-diego-image-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/surfers-neck-pain-san-diego-image-768x512.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/surfers-neck-pain-san-diego-image-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px" /></p> <h2>Why the Soreness Shows Up After, Not During</h2> <p>When you paddle, whether at Tourmaline, Sunset Cliffs, or your secret spot on the San Diego coast, you’re lying flat with your chest and head lifted so you can see ahead of you. Holding your neck in that position keeps the muscles at the back of your neck working continuously during the entire time you’re paddling.</p> <p>Muscles that work continuously for a long period often don’t feel sore until after they stop working. This is why the pain usually shows up once you’re out of the water rather than while you’re still surfing. It’s a delayed response to sustained muscle use, not a sign that something suddenly went wrong at the end of your session.</p> <p>One session on its own won’t usually cause the issue. The problem builds from repeating the same motion in the same position, session after session.</p> <h2>Paddling Strain vs. Wipeout Injuries</h2> <p>Not all surf-related neck pain comes from paddling. A hard wipeout, a bad duck dive, or getting caught wrong by a wave can strain the neck immediately, in a single moment, rather than gradually.</p> <p>This type of injury feels different from paddling-related soreness. It tends to show up right away, and it’s more likely to come with sharp pain or a clear limit on how far you can turn your head, rather than the general stiffness that follows a normal day of paddling. If your neck pain started right after a specific wipeout or wave, treat it differently than everyday post-session soreness and get it checked.</p> <h2>How Surfer’s Neck Develops Over Time</h2> <p>For San Diego surfers who have paddled for years, the pattern often changes gradually. Stiffness that used to show up only after long sessions can start showing up after shorter ones. Recovery time between sessions might get longer too.</p> <p>The strain from paddling isn’t always limited to the neck. It commonly involves the upper back and shoulders as well, since those muscles work alongside the neck to hold your head and chest up. Some surfers also develop tingling or discomfort that travels into the shoulder or arm. That usually points to nerve involvement rather than just muscle fatigue, and it’s a symptom worth paying attention to. Surfers who compensate by arching their lower back more heavily during paddling can also end up with added strain in the low back.</p> <p>Part of why the strain spreads this way is alignment. If your spine isn’t sitting in a good position to begin with, holding the paddling posture puts more pressure on the areas that are already out of balance, which is why some surfers develop these secondary symptoms faster than others.</p> <p>This doesn’t mean you have to stop surfing. It means it’s time to notice how your body responds to the strain it’s under, and figure out how to treat it.</p> <h2>How to Prevent Surfer’s Neck</h2> <p>Before you paddle out, spend a few minutes loosening up your neck, shoulders, and upper back. This prepares those muscles for the position they’re about to hold for an extended paddle.</p> <p>While you’re paddling, a few adjustments reduce strain. Lifting through your chest, instead of relying only on craning your neck, takes some of the load off the back of your neck. Taking short breaks between sets to drop your head and roll your shoulders gives your neck brief recovery periods that help relieve stress.</p> <p>After a session, gentle stretching and movement help more than staying still. Pay attention to how the soreness behaves over the following day or two. If it eases up, that’s normal recovery. If it keeps building instead, that’s useful information that it may need more than rest.</p> <h2>Signs You Should Get It Checked</h2> <p>Some neck tightness after a demanding session is normal. There’s a clear line, though, between that and something that needs a closer look.</p> <p>Get it checked if pain doesn’t improve within a few days, if you notice tingling or numbness running down your arm or into your hand, or if you have a real limit on neck movement that isn’t improving with rest. The same applies to any neck pain that follows a hard wipeout, since that kind of impact puts more force on the neck than regular paddling does. In any of these cases, it’s better to have it evaluated than to wait and see if it resolves on its own.</p> <h2>How Intouch Chiropractic Can Help</h2> <p>Since alignment plays a role in how surfer’s neck develops and spreads, correcting alignment is a direct way to address the problem rather than just managing the soreness after each session.</p> <p>NUCCA chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper alignment at the top of the spine. It uses a gentle, precise correction rather than the twisting or cracking associated with general chiropractic adjustments. For surfers, this means the neck and upper back are better positioned to handle the repeated demands of paddling, which can reduce how often soreness shows up and how far it spreads into the shoulders or lower back.</p> <p>For sore, overworked muscles after heavy paddling, laser therapy is another option we offer to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery between sessions.</p> <p>If you want to keep surfing for years without neck pain becoming a bigger issue, addressing alignment now is a practical way to do that.</p> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <h4>Is it normal for my neck to hurt after every surf session?</h4> <p>Occasional tightness after a long or demanding session is common. Neck pain that shows up after nearly every session, or that seems to be getting worse over time, should be evaluated rather than accepted as a normal part of surfing.</p> <h4>Can a wipeout cause a more serious neck injury than regular paddling?</h4> <p>Yes. A wipeout involves sudden force, unlike the gradual strain from paddling, and it can affect the neck more seriously. Sharp pain, numbness, or a significant loss of movement following a wipeout should be checked out rather than waited out.</p> <h4>Do I need to stop surfing if I have neck pain?</h4> <p>Not necessarily. Many surfers can keep surfing while addressing the underlying strain, especially if it’s caught early. The right approach depends on how long the pain has lasted and how it’s affecting your movement, which is best determined with an evaluation.</p> <h4>What is surfer’s neck?</h4> <p>Surfer’s neck refers to neck pain and stiffness caused by holding your head and chest lifted for long periods while paddling. It typically builds up from repeated sessions over time rather than from any single incident.</p> <h2>Protect Your Time in the Water</h2> <p>If neck soreness has become a regular part of your surf sessions, or if something feels different from your usual post-surf tightness, come see us at our Mission Valley office. We can help alleviate soreness and get you back to paddling comfortably. Call us today at 619-756-7510 or schedule your consultation online. Our office is located at 2425 Camino Del Rio S #100, San Diego, CA 92108.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/surfers-neck-why-your-neck-hurts-after-a-surf-session/">Surfer’s Neck: Why Your Neck Hurts After a Surf Session</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>What Is the Best Non-Surgical Treatment for Neck Pain?</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/what-is-the-best-non-surgical-treatment-for-neck-pain/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Devin Young, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2026 13:41:49 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=4837</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Many of our patients who come into our San Diego office looking for neck pain treatment are trying to avoid surgery. And rightfully so. Surgery should generally be a last...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/what-is-the-best-non-surgical-treatment-for-neck-pain/">What Is the Best Non-Surgical Treatment for Neck Pain?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Many of our patients who come into our San Diego office looking for <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/neck-pain/">neck pain treatment</a> are trying to avoid surgery. And rightfully so. Surgery should generally be a last resort!</p> <p>The best non-surgical treatment for neck pain depends on the underlying cause, but for many patients, <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/nucca-chiropractic/"><strong>NUCCA chiropractic care</strong></a> offers lasting relief by correcting the root misalignment in the upper cervical spine. Other effective options include physical therapy, massage, and targeted exercises. The right approach addresses the source of your pain, not just the symptoms.</p> <p>In this blog post, we’ll get into the best approaches for dealing with neck pain that don’t involve going under the knife.</p> <h2>What Causes Neck Pain?</h2> <p><strong>Neck pain rarely develops without reason.</strong> The cervical spine is a complex structure made up of seven vertebrae, dozens of muscles, and a network of nerves that communicate directly with the brain. When any part of this system is disrupted, pain is often the first signal your body sends.</p> <p>Some of the most common causes of neck pain include:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Upper cervical misalignment:</strong> Even a small shift in the position of the atlas (C1) or axis (C2) vertebrae can place uneven stress on the muscles, joints, and nerves of the entire spine. This is a common and frequently overlooked driver of chronic neck pain.</li> <li><strong>Poor posture:</strong> Hours spent looking down at phones or sitting at a desk puts enormous compressive force on the cervical spine. This is sometimes called “tech neck” and is increasingly common in all age groups.</li> <li><strong>Muscle strain:</strong> Overuse, awkward sleeping positions, or sudden movements can strain the muscles and tendons of the neck.</li> <li><strong>Cervical disc degeneration:</strong> With age or injury, the discs between the vertebrae can wear down, reducing their ability to cushion the spine and potentially irritating nearby nerves.</li> <li><strong>Whiplash or prior trauma:</strong> A past car accident, sports injury, or fall can cause misalignments and soft tissue damage that produce symptoms for months or even years after the original event.</li> <li><strong>Nerve compression:</strong> When a disc or bone spur presses against a spinal nerve root, it can cause neck pain that radiates into the shoulder, arm, or hand.</li> </ul> <p>Understanding the cause of your neck pain is essential before choosing a treatment. What works for a muscle strain may do very little for a structural misalignment or a compressed nerve.</p> <h2>Common Symptoms of Neck Pain</h2> <p>Neck pain presents differently from person to person, but there are patterns worth recognizing. If you are experiencing any of the following, your cervical spine may need professional attention:</p> <ul> <li>A stiff or tight neck that limits your range of motion</li> <li>Sharp or aching pain in the neck, shoulders, or between the shoulder blades</li> <li>Headaches that start at the base of the skull and move forward</li> <li>Numbness, tingling, or weakness that travels into one or both arms</li> <li>A feeling of pressure or tension in the upper back and neck</li> <li>Dizziness, brain fog, or difficulty concentrating</li> <li>Pain that worsens after sitting or screen time</li> </ul> <p>It is worth noting that many patients we see in San Diego with upper cervical misalignments experience more than just local neck pain. Because the atlas and axis sit at the junction between the brain and the spinal cord, a misalignment at this level can affect the nervous system broadly, contributing to symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and even balance issues.</p> <h2>The Best Non-Surgical Treatments for Neck Pain</h2> <p>There is no shortage of options for treating neck pain without surgery. The treatments below range from conservative home care to precision chiropractic correction. For the best outcomes, a proper evaluation should guide which approaches are right for you.</p> <h3><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2208" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-768x1024.jpg" alt="Dr. Jeanett Tapia working with a San Diego patient experiencing bulging / herniated disc pain" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-225x300.jpg 225w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />NUCCA Chiropractic Care</h3> <p><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/nucca-chiropractic/">NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association)</a> is one of the most precise and gentle forms of chiropractic care available. Rather than addressing the spine in a generalized way, NUCCA focuses specifically on the relationship between the skull, the atlas (C1), and the axis (C2). When these top two vertebrae are out of alignment, the entire spine compensates, often leading to chronic neck pain, headaches, and uneven posture.</p> <p><strong>The NUCCA correction itself is extremely gentle.</strong> There is no twisting, cracking, or high-velocity manipulation.</p> <p>Instead, a precise, low-force adjustment is made to the atlas based on detailed X-ray analysis. Many of our San Diego patients notice changes in their posture and pain levels within the first few visits. At <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/">Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego</a>, we use the NUCCA protocol as the foundation of our care because it targets the structural cause of neck pain rather than temporarily managing symptoms.</p> <p><iframe title="Exploring NUCCA Upper Cervical Care at Intouch Chiropractic - How it Works and Who it&apos;s For" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1178624747?dnt=1&app_id=122963" width="1080" height="608" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe></p> <h3>Physical Therapy and Targeted Exercise</h3> <p><strong>Physical therapy can be highly effective for neck pain caused by muscle weakness, poor posture, or soft tissue injury.</strong> A good physical therapist will assess your movement patterns and design a program that strengthens the deep cervical stabilizers, improves flexibility, and corrects postural habits that are driving your pain.</p> <p>PT works best when paired with structural correction, since strengthening muscles around a misaligned spine provides limited long-term benefit.</p> <h3>Massage Therapy</h3> <p>Therapeutic massage helps relax the muscles that guard and tighten around an injured or misaligned area of the neck. It improves circulation, reduces muscle tension, and can provide meaningful short-term relief.</p> <p>While massage does not correct structural problems, it is a valuable complement to chiropractic care and can help your adjustments hold longer.</p> <h3>Heat and Ice Therapy</h3> <p>For acute neck pain flare-ups, alternating heat and ice can help manage inflammation and muscle spasm. Ice is most effective in the first 48 to 72 hours after an injury to reduce swelling. Heat is better suited for chronic tightness and muscle stiffness.</p> <p>Neither replaces professional evaluation, but <strong>both are low-risk tools for managing day-to-day discomfort</strong>.</p> <h3>Postural Correction and Ergonomics</h3> <p>Addressing how you sit, sleep, and use your devices can meaningfully reduce the mechanical load on your cervical spine. Simple changes like raising your monitor to eye level, using a supportive pillow, and taking breaks from prolonged screen time can slow the progression of tech neck and reduce recurring strain.</p> <h3>Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition</h3> <p>Chronic inflammation plays a role in persistent neck pain, particularly in cases involving disc degeneration or nerve irritation. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, and antioxidants can help reduce systemic inflammation.</p> <p><strong>Staying well hydrated also supports disc health</strong>, as the discs rely on fluid to maintain their height and cushioning ability.</p> <h2>When to See a Doctor or Chiropractor for Neck Pain</h2> <p>Not all neck pain resolves on its own. You should seek professional care if:</p> <ul> <li>Your neck pain has lasted more than two to three weeks without improvement</li> <li>You have pain that radiates into your arm, hand, or fingers</li> <li>You are experiencing numbness, tingling, or weakness in your upper extremities</li> <li>Your neck pain began after a car accident or head injury</li> <li>You are having frequent headaches alongside your neck pain</li> <li>You notice changes in your balance, coordination, or fine motor skills</li> </ul> <p>These symptoms can indicate nerve involvement or structural compromise that requires a thorough evaluation. The sooner a structural issue is identified and corrected, the better the prognosis for full recovery.</p> <blockquote><p><em>“I can’t say enough great things about Intouch Chiropractic. From the moment you walk in, the staff is welcoming, professional, and genuinely caring. The doctors are incredibly knowledgeable and take the time to explain everything clearly, which makes you feel confident and comfortable with your care. The NUCCA approach here is precise, gentle, and effective. Every visit made a noticeable difference, and the results speak for themselves. This office truly puts patients first, and it shows in every interaction. I’m beyond grateful for the care I received and highly recommend this office to anyone looking for real healing and outstanding chiropractic care.” – </em><a href="https://share.google/XOVuWNYcnjV7pgsww" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Intouch Chiropractic NUCCA Review by Carolina H.</em></a></p></blockquote> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Surgical Approaches to Neck Pain</h2> <h3>Is NUCCA chiropractic safe for neck pain?</h3> <p>Yes. NUCCA is one of the safest forms of chiropractic care because it uses a very gentle, precise correction with no forceful manipulation. It is appropriate for a wide range of patients, including those who have had prior neck injuries or who are uncomfortable with traditional chiropractic adjustments. We regularly see positive results with our patients who undergo a NUCCA treatment plan.</p> <h3>How long does it take for neck pain to improve with chiropractic care?</h3> <p>Many patients begin to notice improvement within the first few visits, though the timeline varies based on the severity and duration of the problem. Chronic conditions that have been present for months or years typically require more time and consistent care to correct fully.</p> <h3>Can neck pain come back after chiropractic treatment?</h3> <p>It can, particularly if the underlying habits or lifestyle factors that contributed to the problem are not addressed. That is why we emphasize postural correction, home care, and periodic check-ups as part of a complete treatment plan.</p> <h3>Is surgery ever necessary for neck pain?</h3> <p>Surgery is rarely the first answer. Most cases of neck pain, even those involving disc herniation or nerve compression, respond well to conservative care. Surgery is typically considered only when there is significant neurological compromise that has not responded to non-surgical treatment over time.</p> <h3>What makes NUCCA different from regular chiropractic adjustments?</h3> <p>Traditional chiropractic adjustments often focus on multiple spinal segments using manual manipulation. NUCCA is a specialty technique that concentrates exclusively on the upper cervical spine, using precise measurements and a very low-force correction. The goal is to restore the alignment of the head and atlas so the entire spine can rebalance naturally.</p> <h2>Ready to Find Relief Without Surgery?</h2> <p>If you are dealing with neck pain that is not getting better on its own, you do not have to accept it as your new normal. At <strong>Intouch Chiropractic</strong> in San Diego, our NUCCA-trained doctors have helped hundreds of patients find lasting relief from neck pain without drugs or surgery. We start with a thorough evaluation and precise imaging to understand exactly what is happening in your spine before recommending any care.</p> <p><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/">Contact us today to schedule your consultation</a> and take the first step toward a pain-free neck.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/what-is-the-best-non-surgical-treatment-for-neck-pain/">What Is the Best Non-Surgical Treatment for Neck Pain?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Spine Health for Frequent Flyers: How Long-Haul Travel Affects Your Alignment and What to Do About It</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/spine-health-for-frequent-flyers-how-long-haul-travel-affects-your-alignment-and-what-to-do-about-it/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Devin Young, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 08:45:58 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=5444</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>You know the feeling. You step off a six-hour flight from New York, or a ten-hour red-eye from London, and your body doesn’t quite belong to you yet. The neck...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/spine-health-for-frequent-flyers-how-long-haul-travel-affects-your-alignment-and-what-to-do-about-it/">Spine Health for Frequent Flyers: How Long-Haul Travel Affects Your Alignment and What to Do About It</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>You know the feeling. You step off a six-hour flight from New York, or a ten-hour red-eye from London, and your body doesn’t quite belong to you yet. The neck that won’t rotate fully. The low back that announces itself with every step through the terminal. The shoulders locked somewhere around your ears that no amount of rolling seems to release.</p> <p>Most frequent travelers write this off as the price of doing business. A nuisance, not a problem — something that resolves in a day or two and gets filed away until the next trip.</p> <p>What most travelers don’t realize is that those symptoms are the readable surface of something happening at a structural level. Long-haul air travel places your spine under a specific and cumulative set of mechanical stresses that, over time and with enough frequency, do not simply resolve on their own. For the San Diego professionals, executives, and globally mobile individuals who travel regularly — whether for business, for family, or between homes — understanding what is actually happening during those hours in the air is the first step toward protecting one of your most important long-term assets.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-5535 size-full" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/spine-health-frequent-flyers-image.jpg" alt="" width="1536" height="1024" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/spine-health-frequent-flyers-image.jpg 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/spine-health-frequent-flyers-image-300x200.jpg 300w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/spine-health-frequent-flyers-image-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/spine-health-frequent-flyers-image-768x512.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/spine-health-frequent-flyers-image-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px" /></p> <h2>What Actually Happens to Your Spine at 35,000 Feet</h2> <p>The problems begin before the plane leaves the ground, because the problem is the seat.</p> <p>Aircraft seats — including premium business and first-class configurations — are engineered for comfort and space efficiency, not spinal neutrality. The standard seated position they place you in creates a sustained forward flexion load on the lumbar spine. In this posture, the posterior aspect of each intervertebral disc is compressed while the anterior aspect is placed under tension. Hold that position for two hours and it is an inconvenience. Hold it for ten hours and the structural consequences become meaningful.</p> <p>Intradiscal pressure in a prolonged seated posture runs significantly higher than in standing or walking — and far higher than in lying down. Your discs rely on alternating cycles of compression and decompression to drive the exchange of nutrients and fluid that keeps them healthy. When you are seated and largely still for the duration of a long flight, that exchange is suppressed. Discs that were already under any degree of degeneration or mechanical stress are particularly vulnerable to the cumulative loading.</p> <p>Cabin pressurization adds a layer that most travelers never consider. Commercial aircraft are typically pressurized to the equivalent of 6,000 to 8,000 feet of altitude. At that pressure differential, the body loses fluid more rapidly than at sea level — and your spinal discs, which are largely water by composition, are not exempt from that dehydration effect. A disc that arrives at altitude already slightly compressed and dehydrated exits the flight in worse condition than it boarded.</p> <p>There is also the vibration load. Aircraft transmit continuous low-frequency vibration through the airframe and into the seat — a subtle but sustained mechanical input that research has associated with accelerated fatigue in the spinal musculature and increased loading on the disc. It is not dramatic, but over the course of a long flight it contributes to the overall burden on the spine.</p> <p>Finally, there is the postural rigidity that sets in when you are confined to a small space for hours. The body adopts a set of protective muscle tension patterns — the shoulders elevate slightly, the hip flexors shorten, the paraspinal muscles engage to hold the torso upright without the support of active movement. By the time you land, those tension patterns have been locked in long enough to persist well after you stand up.</p> <h2>Why the Atlas Takes the Worst of It</h2> <p>Every inch that your head translates forward from its neutral position adds approximately ten pounds of effective load to the cervical spine. In the context of aircraft seating — where the headrest geometry encourages a forward head position, where you are looking down at a screen or a document, and where you eventually fall asleep with your neck in whatever position gravity finds — the upper cervical spine absorbs a disproportionate share of travel-related mechanical stress.</p> <p>The atlas, the topmost vertebra in the cervical spine, sits at the junction between the skull and the rest of the spinal column. Its position governs the alignment of everything below it. When the head is carried forward and the neck is held in sustained non-neutral positions for hours — or dropped into the lateral flexion of an airplane sleep — the atlas is subjected to the kind of cumulative micro-loading that can shift it out of its optimal position.</p> <p>This matters beyond the neck itself. <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/nucca-doctors-atlas-doctors/">A misaligned atlas</a> creates a cascade of compensatory adaptations throughout the spine. The body adjusts its balance and weight distribution in response to the foundational shift at C1, which means that the mechanical consequences of a travel-induced cervical misalignment are not confined to the neck. Patients frequently present with lower back pain, shoulder asymmetry, or hip discomfort that traces back to postural compensation patterns originating at the top of the spine.</p> <p>The neck pillow, it is worth noting, is not the solution most travelers believe it to be. Standard U-shaped travel pillows push the head forward and hold it there — often making the cervical loading pattern worse rather than better. More on that shortly.</p> <h2>Why Frequent Flyers Feel It Differently</h2> <p>A single long flight is recoverable. The spine is resilient, and given adequate time, movement, and hydration, most people will largely self-correct after an isolated long-haul trip.</p> <p>The problem is frequency.</p> <p>When travel is a regular feature of your schedule — a transcon every week, an international trip every month, a back-and-forth between San Diego and another city or country that has become simply the rhythm of your life — the spine does not get the full recovery window between trips. The residual tension from Monday’s flight to New York is still present when you board Thursday’s flight to London. The cervical misalignment that was heading toward resolution gets compounded before it gets there.</p> <p>This is the pattern we see consistently at Intouch Chiropractic among San Diego patients who travel heavily for work. There is typically a point in the history where things changed — where the recovery that used to happen in a day or two stopped happening as reliably, where the neck stiffness started lingering into the following week, where the low back that used to reset after a night in a good bed started becoming a more persistent presence. That inflection point is rarely caused by a single trip. It is the cumulative result of repeated insults to a spine that never quite fully reset between them.</p> <p><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/how-office-workers-can-prevent-back-pain/">The desk work between trips compounds the problem further</a>. Returning from a long flight to a full schedule of meetings and screen time means the spine moves from one compressive loading environment directly into another.</p> <h2>What You Can Do In-Flight</h2> <p>The constraints of air travel are real — you cannot replicate your home ergonomics at 35,000 feet. But there is a meaningful difference between what most travelers do and what the spine actually needs during a long flight.</p> <p><strong>Support the lumbar curve, specifically.</strong> Most aircraft seats flatten the lumbar lordosis — the natural inward curve of the lower back — which is the primary driver of disc loading in the seated position. A small lumbar roll or a rolled jacket placed at the curve of the lower back (not the mid-back) restores some of that natural position. The placement matters: support too high and you are propping the thoracic spine, which does nothing for lumbar disc pressure. Aim for the waistband level.</p> <p><strong>Reconsider the neck pillow.</strong> If you use a travel pillow, position it at the back of the neck rather than around the front, or use it to support the head from the side against the window rather than letting it push the chin forward. Better still, an inflatable pillow with back-of-neck positioning keeps the cervical spine in a far more neutral posture during sleep than the standard U-shape.</p> <p><strong>Move on a schedule, not when you feel like it.</strong> The instinct to stay settled once you have found a comfortable position is understandable but counterproductive. Standing, walking the aisle, and performing a brief series of movements every sixty to ninety minutes is enough to interrupt the sustained compressive loading on the discs and restore some degree of muscular activation. Set a reminder if you need to.</p> <p><strong>Specific movements worth doing in the aisle:</strong> Standing lumbar extension — hands on the low back, gentle backward bend held for five seconds, repeated three to five times. Shoulder retraction — pulling the shoulder blades back and together, releasing slowly. Cervical retraction — the chin-tuck motion that brings the head back over the shoulders rather than forward. These are not dramatic stretches. They are the postural correctives for exactly the positions the seat has been holding you in.</p> <p><strong>Hydrate with intent.</strong> The standard recommendation to avoid alcohol and drink water on long flights is correct, and the reason is not only jet lag — it is disc health. Your discs are roughly 80% water in a healthy state. Cabin dehydration is real and has a direct effect on the fluid content of spinal discs. A minimum of eight ounces of water per hour of flight is a reasonable target.</p> <p><strong>Avoid the crossed-leg position.</strong> It feels comfortable because it rotates the pelvis and temporarily relieves some lumbar tension, but it creates a sustained pelvic asymmetry that loads one side of the lumbar spine disproportionately. For a short flight, it is a minor issue. For a long one, it is a meaningful contributor to post-flight low back pain.</p> <h2>What to Do After You Land</h2> <p>The 24 to 48 hours following a long flight represent a recovery window that most frequent travelers underutilize — or actively work against.</p> <p>The most common mistake is going directly from the aircraft to the desk. The spine needs movement after sustained compression, and extended sedentary work immediately after landing simply extends the compressive loading period rather than interrupting it. If the schedule allows, prioritize a walk, a swim, or any activity that involves upright movement before returning to seated work.</p> <p>Hydration continues to matter in the hours after landing — the rehydration of spinal tissues is not instantaneous, and maintaining adequate fluid intake supports the recovery of disc hydration that the flight depleted.</p> <p>Sleep position the first night matters more than most people realize. Sleeping prone — face down — places the cervical spine in sustained rotation and is particularly disruptive after a flight that has already loaded the neck. Side sleeping with a supportive pillow that maintains neutral cervical alignment, or back sleeping with a pillow that does not push the head forward, supports the postural reset the spine needs.</p> <p>If your symptoms — stiffness, restricted range of motion, neck or back pain — have not meaningfully resolved within 48 to 72 hours of landing, that is a signal worth taking seriously. The body’s self-correction capacity has a limit, and symptoms that persist beyond that window typically indicate that the underlying structural issue needs professional attention rather than more time.</p> <h2>How Intouch Chiropractic Supports San Diego’s Frequent Travelers</h2> <p>For patients who travel regularly, the approach to spinal care shifts from reactive to proactive — and that shift makes a significant difference in how well the spine holds up over time.</p> <p><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/nucca-chiropractic/">NUCCA chiropractic care</a> is particularly well suited to the needs of frequent travelers. The technique’s precision — measuring cervical alignment through specific imaging and correcting it with a gentle, targeted contact at the atlas — addresses exactly the kind of upper cervical misalignment that long-haul travel produces. There is no forceful manipulation involved, which means the correction is well tolerated even when the tissues are already inflamed or guarded from travel stress.</p> <p>A number of our San Diego patients have structured their care around their travel schedules. A NUCCA evaluation and correction before a significant international trip establishes a strong structural baseline — the spine is aligned before it is subjected to the mechanical demands of long-haul travel. A post-trip visit addresses whatever the journey introduced before it becomes a pattern the body adapts around. For patients who travel multiple times a month, maintaining a regular care interval means the cumulative drift that produces the “I don’t bounce back like I used to” experience simply does not accumulate.</p> <p>When travel has introduced acute soft tissue inflammation — the guarded, tender musculature of a neck that spent ten hours in the wrong position — <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/mls-laser-therapy/">MLS laser therapy</a> accelerates the resolution of that inflammation in ways that rest alone cannot match. Integrating it into a post-trip care visit shortens the recovery window considerably.</p> <p>The goal is straightforward: a spine that is well-aligned before you leave, well-supported while you travel, and efficiently reset when you return. For the patient who has places to be, that is not a luxury — it is a practical investment in being able to keep going.</p> <p>“I had an absolutely wonderful experience at this chiropractic office. My pain was relieved almost immediately after receiving shockwave and laser treatments. The care was effective, professional, and exceeded my expectations. Dr. Tapia is knowledgeable, attentive, and very easy to communicate with, making the entire process comfortable and reassuring.” — Intouch Chiropractic patient, Jennifer V.</p> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Travel and Spinal Health</h2> <h4>Is business class or first class meaningfully better for your spine?</h4> <p>Better, yes — but not a solution. Lie-flat business and first-class seats eliminate the sustained seated flexion loading that is the primary driver of disc compression on long flights, which is a genuine advantage. However, even flat beds in aircraft do not replicate the ergonomic conditions of a quality mattress at home, and the dehydration, vibration, and postural rigidity of flight affect all cabin classes equally. The neck loading from sleep position remains a variable regardless of how flat the seat goes. First class is worth it for comfort and rest — just not for exemption from the spinal demands of long-haul travel.</p> <h4>How long does travel-related misalignment typically take to resolve on its own?</h4> <p>For a healthy spine with no underlying structural issues, mild travel-related stiffness and restriction often resolves within 24 to 72 hours with movement, hydration, and appropriate sleep. When there is an underlying condition — disc degeneration, a prior injury, or pre-existing cervical misalignment — the self-correction window is considerably longer and less reliable. For frequent travelers, the question is less about any individual trip and more about whether the accumulation over time is being adequately addressed.</p> <h4>Should I see a chiropractor before or after a long flight?</h4> <p>Ideally, both — but if you are choosing one, the pre-trip visit offers more leverage. Arriving at the airport with a well-aligned spine means the mechanical stresses of the flight are applied to a structurally sound foundation. Post-trip care is valuable for resetting whatever the journey introduced, but the pre-trip visit reduces how much there is to reset in the first place.</p> <h4>Are lumbar supports and compression garments worth using during travel?</h4> <p>Lumbar supports are genuinely useful when positioned correctly — at the lumbar curve, not the mid-back — and are one of the higher-impact interventions available within the constraints of aircraft seating. Compression garments designed for lower extremity circulation are beneficial for reducing deep vein thrombosis risk on long flights and may reduce the general fatigue and tissue edema that contributes to post-flight discomfort, though their direct spinal benefit is more limited. Neither substitutes for the movement breaks and positional adjustments described above, but both are reasonable additions to a long-haul travel protocol.</p> <h2>Travel Is Not Going to Stop — Your Spine Doesn’t Have to Pay the Price</h2> <p>Long-haul travel is a feature of the lives of many of San Diego’s most active and engaged people. The goal is not to fly less — it is to travel in a way that does not extract a compounding toll from your body over time.</p> <p>At Intouch Chiropractic in Mission Valley, we work with patients who move through the world at a high pace and want a spine that keeps up with them. If you travel regularly and have noticed that recovery is taking longer than it used to, or if you simply want to get ahead of the accumulation before it becomes a problem, we would like to help.</p> <p>Call us at 619-756-7510 or schedule your consultation online. Our office is located at 2425 Camino Del Rio S #100, San Diego, CA 92108.</p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/spine-health-for-frequent-flyers-how-long-haul-travel-affects-your-alignment-and-what-to-do-about-it/">Spine Health for Frequent Flyers: How Long-Haul Travel Affects Your Alignment and What to Do About It</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Herniated Disc in the Neck vs Muscle Strain: What’s the Difference?</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/herniated-disc-in-the-neck-vs-muscle-strain-whats-the-difference/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Devin Young, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 08 Aug 2026 23:47:58 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Disc Herniations]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=4825</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>A herniated disc in the neck and a cervical muscle strain are two very different conditions, but they often cause similar neck pain and stiffness. The key difference is that...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/herniated-disc-in-the-neck-vs-muscle-strain-whats-the-difference/">Herniated Disc in the Neck vs Muscle Strain: What’s the Difference?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>A herniated disc in the neck and a cervical muscle strain are two very different conditions, but they often cause similar neck pain and stiffness.</strong> The key difference is that a herniated disc involves damage to the cushioning between the vertebrae and can compress nearby nerves, while a muscle strain is an injury to the soft tissue surrounding the spine.</p> <p>Knowing which one you are dealing with is the first step toward the right treatment.</p> <p>In this blog post, we’ll detail everything you need to know when it comes to evaluating and treating herniated discs in the neck and how that differs from muscle strains.</p> <h2>What Causes Each Condition: Herniated Disc vs Muscle Strain</h2> <p>Understanding what causes each condition helps clarify why the symptoms and recovery timelines can be so different.</p> <h3>What Causes a Herniated Disc in the Neck</h3> <p>The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae stacked on top of one another, separated by intervertebral discs. <strong>Each disc acts as a shock absorber and gives the spine its flexibility.</strong> A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core of one of these discs pushes through a crack in its tougher outer layer.</p> <p>In the neck, this most commonly affects the discs between C5-C6 and C6-C7.</p> <p>We regularly see patients with herniated discs at the <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/">Intouch Chiropractic office in San Diego, CA</a>. The common herniated disc causes we see include:</p> <ul> <li>Age-related disc degeneration, which makes discs more brittle and prone to tearing</li> <li>Sudden trauma, such as a car accident or fall</li> <li>Repetitive strain from poor posture, especially prolonged forward head posture from screen use</li> <li>Heavy lifting with improper mechanics</li> <li>Genetic predisposition to disc problems</li> </ul> <h3>What Causes a Cervical Muscle Strain</h3> <p>A cervical muscle strain is an injury to one or more of the muscles or tendons in the neck. Unlike a disc herniation, there is no structural damage to the spine itself. The muscles surrounding the cervical spine are overloaded, overstretched, or torn to some degree.</p> <p>Common causes include:</p> <ul> <li>Sleeping in an awkward position</li> <li>Whiplash from a rear-end collision</li> <li>Sudden, forceful movement during sports or exercise</li> <li>Prolonged tension and stress held in the neck and shoulders</li> <li>Carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder repeatedly</li> </ul> <h2><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4832" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/girl-experiencing-neck-pain-1024x683.webp" alt="An athletic looking girl holds her neck experiencing pain" width="1024" height="683" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/girl-experiencing-neck-pain-1024x683.webp 1024w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/girl-experiencing-neck-pain-300x200.webp 300w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/girl-experiencing-neck-pain-768x512.webp 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/girl-experiencing-neck-pain-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/girl-experiencing-neck-pain-900x600.webp 900w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/girl-experiencing-neck-pain.webp 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Symptoms: How Herniated Discs and Muscle Strains Feel Different</h2> <p>Both conditions can cause neck pain and stiffness, but there are distinct patterns that help separate them.</p> <h3>Symptoms of a Herniated Disc in the Neck</h3> <p>Because a herniated cervical disc can press against nerve roots or the spinal cord, the symptoms often extend beyond the neck itself. This is one of the clearest signs that something more than a simple strain may be occurring.</p> <p>Here are the most common herniated disc in the neck symptoms we see from our San Diego patients:</p> <ul> <li>Sharp, burning, or electric pain that radiates down one arm (radiculopathy)</li> <li>Numbness or tingling in the shoulder, arm, hand, or fingers</li> <li>Muscle weakness in the arm or hand</li> <li>Deep, aching pain that does not resolve with rest</li> <li>Neck pain that worsens with certain head positions</li> <li>In severe cases, balance problems or difficulty with fine motor control</li> </ul> <h3>Symptoms of a Cervical Muscle Strain</h3> <p>Muscle strains typically stay localized to the neck and surrounding soft tissue. The pain may be significant, but it usually does not radiate down the arm or cause neurological symptoms.</p> <p>Symptoms may include:</p> <ul> <li>Dull, achy pain in the neck, upper back, or shoulders</li> <li>Stiffness and reduced range of motion</li> <li>Muscle spasms or tightness</li> <li>Tenderness when pressing on the affected muscles</li> <li>Pain that tends to improve with rest and worsens with activity</li> <li>Headaches originating from the base of the skull</li> </ul> <p>The presence of arm pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness is a strong indicator that nerve compression from a disc herniation may be involved rather than a straightforward muscle strain.</p> <h2>How Each Condition Is Diagnosed</h2> <p>Proper diagnosis matters because treating a herniated disc the same way you treat a muscle strain can delay recovery and potentially make things worse.</p> <p>A thorough clinical evaluation typically involves a detailed health history, orthopedic and neurological examination, and assessment of reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength in the arms. Specific tests like Spurling’s maneuver, where the head is gently compressed and rotated, can help reproduce radicular symptoms and identify nerve root involvement.</p> <p>Imaging studies may be ordered to confirm a diagnosis. An MRI is the gold standard for visualizing disc herniation and nerve compression in the cervical spine. X-rays can show spinal alignment and disc height loss, and a CT scan may be used in cases where MRI is not an option.</p> <p><strong>Muscle strains, on the other hand, do not typically appear on imaging, making the physical examination even more important.</strong></p> <h2>Herniated Disc and Muscle Strain Treatment Options</h2> <p>The good news is that both conditions can often be managed conservatively without surgery. Treatment approaches, however, are tailored to the specific diagnosis.</p> <h3>Treating a Herniated Disc in the Neck</h3> <p>There are several ways to <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/herniated-bulging-discs/">treat a herniated disc</a>. Here are some that we recommend:</p> <ul> <li><strong>NUCCA chiropractic care:</strong> <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/nucca-chiropractic/">NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) is a gentle, precise form of upper cervical chiropractic focused on correcting the alignment of the atlas (C1) vertebra</a>. Misalignment at the top of the cervical spine can create compensatory tension throughout the neck and alter the mechanics around herniated discs. Correcting this foundation takes pressure off the nervous system and supports the body’s ability to heal.</li> <li><strong>Cervical traction and decompression:</strong> Gentle traction can help create space between the vertebrae, reducing pressure on the herniated disc and the affected nerve root. We can accomplish this at our San Diego location with the <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/spinal-decompression/drx9000/">DRX9000 spinal decompression machine</a>.</li> <li><strong>Activity modification:</strong> Avoiding positions and movements that worsen nerve compression, particularly prolonged forward head posture.</li> <li><strong>Ice and heat therapy:</strong> Ice helps reduce inflammation in the early stages, while heat can help relax surrounding muscle tension.</li> <li><strong>Physical therapy:</strong> Targeted exercises to strengthen the deep cervical stabilizing muscles and improve posture.</li> </ul> <h3>Treating a Cervical Muscle Strain</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Rest and activity modification:</strong> Avoiding the activities that triggered the strain while allowing the tissue to heal</li> <li><strong>Ice and heat:</strong> Ice for the first 48 to 72 hours to reduce inflammation, followed by heat to ease muscle tightness</li> <li><strong>Soft tissue therapy and chiropractic care:</strong> Hands-on treatment to release muscle tension, improve joint mobility, and restore normal cervical movement patterns</li> <li><strong>Gentle stretching and strengthening:</strong> Gradually reintroducing range-of-motion exercises as pain allows</li> <li><strong>Postural correction:</strong> Addressing the underlying habits, such as screen posture, that may have contributed to the strain</li> </ul> <h2>When to See a Chiropractor for Neck Pain</h2> <p>Whether you are dealing with a herniated disc, a muscle strain, or are not yet sure which one applies to you,<strong> early evaluation is always the right call.</strong> Neck pain that lingers beyond a week or two without improvement, especially any pain accompanied by arm symptoms, deserves professional attention.</p> <p>You should seek care promptly if you experience:</p> <ul> <li>Numbness, tingling, or weakness traveling into the arm or hand</li> <li>Neck pain following a car accident, fall, or sports injury</li> <li>Pain that wakes you up at night or is consistently worsening</li> <li>Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks</li> <li>Neck pain combined with balance problems or changes in coordination</li> </ul> <p>At Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego, we specialize in NUCCA upper cervical chiropractic care, which provides a precise, non-invasive approach to addressing the root cause of cervical spine problems rather than masking symptoms. A proper examination helps us determine exactly what is happening in your neck so we can build a <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/neck-pain/">neck care plan</a> that fits your specific situation.</p> <blockquote><p><em>“For those of us with structural back and/or neck issues, I can’t recommend Intouch Chiropractic enough. The doctors and staff are skilled , conscientious and really care about getting their patients back to being their best! I love this place!” – <a href="https://share.google/8s1p3gFQunVHBhbkS" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Intouch Chiropractic Review by Jefry S.</a></em></p></blockquote> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Herniated Discs vs Muscle Strains</h2> <h3>Can a muscle strain turn into a herniated disc?</h3> <p>A muscle strain itself does not directly cause a disc herniation. However, the same trauma, like a whiplash injury, can damage both the soft tissue and the disc simultaneously. Chronic muscle tension and poor posture over time can also increase mechanical stress on the cervical discs, raising the risk of herniation.</p> <h3>How long does a herniated disc in the neck take to heal?</h3> <p>Many herniated cervical discs improve significantly within six to twelve weeks with conservative care. Some patients experience relief sooner, particularly when treatment addresses spinal alignment and nerve irritation early. Cases involving significant nerve compression may take longer and require a more structured treatment plan.</p> <h3>How do I know if my neck pain is serious?</h3> <p>Pain that radiates down the arm, causes numbness or tingling in the hand, produces muscle weakness, or does not improve after one to two weeks should be evaluated by a qualified provider. These symptoms suggest possible nerve involvement and warrant a thorough examination.</p> <h3>Is chiropractic care safe for a herniated disc in the neck?</h3> <p>Yes, when performed by a trained and licensed chiropractor using appropriate techniques. NUCCA care, in particular, involves no forceful manipulation of the cervical spine. The adjustments are precise, gentle, and specifically designed to reduce stress on the nervous system, making it a well-suited option for patients with cervical disc problems.</p> <h3>Can I treat neck pain at home?</h3> <p>Mild muscle strain can often be managed at home with rest, ice, heat, and gentle stretching. However, if symptoms persist beyond a week or involve any arm symptoms, a professional evaluation is important. Home remedies do not address structural issues like disc herniation or spinal misalignment.</p> <p><strong>Neck pain is not something you should have to just live with.</strong> If you are in the San Diego area and are unsure whether you are dealing with a herniated disc or a muscle strain, our team at Intouch Chiropractic is here to help. We offer thorough evaluations and a patient-centered approach to cervical spine care rooted in NUCCA chiropractic. <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/">Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward lasting relief</a>.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/herniated-disc-in-the-neck-vs-muscle-strain-whats-the-difference/">Herniated Disc in the Neck vs Muscle Strain: What’s the Difference?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Does MLS Laser Therapy Work for Neck & Back Pain?</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/does-mls-laser-therapy-work-for-neck-back-pain/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Jeanett Tapia, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:58:45 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Back Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Laser Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=4001</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Neck and back pain can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it starts to limit your work, sleep, and the activities you enjoy most. At Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego, we...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/does-mls-laser-therapy-work-for-neck-back-pain/">Does MLS Laser Therapy Work for Neck & Back Pain?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Neck and back pain can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it starts to limit your work, sleep, and the activities you enjoy most.</p> <p><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/">At Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego</a>, we see patients every day who have already tried medications, injections, and even surgery recommendations, yet still live with stubborn pain that will not fully resolve. That is often when they begin looking for safer, non-invasive options like MLS laser therapy to help calm inflammation, support tissue healing, and finally get lasting relief.</p> <p>As NUCCA chiropractors who also specialize in advanced technologies like Class IV MLS laser therapy, we are often asked, <strong>“Does MLS laser therapy really work for neck and back pain, or is it just another trend?”</strong></p> <p>In this article, we will walk you through how MLS laser therapy works, what the current research says about its effectiveness for chronic neck and low back pain, what to expect during treatment at Intouch Chiropractic, and how we combine it with NUCCA care and spinal decompression to help you get better results, faster.</p> <p>By the end, you will have a clear, evidence informed understanding of whether <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/mls-laser-therapy/">MLS laser therapy for neck and back pain</a> is a good fit for you.</p> <p>First, let’s cover how MLS laser therapy works.</p> <h2>How Does MLS Laser Therapy Work?</h2> <p>MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy is a Class IV laser technology that delivers concentrated light energy deep into damaged tissues. Unlike low level lasers, MLS uses two synchronized wavelengths that work together to penetrate up to 4 to 5 inches below the skin surface, reaching muscles, ligaments, discs, and even nerve tissue that contribute to your neck and back pain.</p> <p>The laser energy triggers a biological response called photobiomodulation. This process increases cellular metabolism, improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and accelerates your body’s natural healing mechanisms. For patients dealing with chronic pain, MLS laser therapy can help break the pain cycle by calming overactive nerves and repairing damaged tissue at the cellular level.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-283" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/mls-laser-therapy-banner-1024x700.jpg" alt="A chiropractic assistant measures distance as she sets up a patient with the M6 Laser therapy at Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego, CA." width="1024" height="700" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/mls-laser-therapy-banner-1024x700.jpg 1024w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/mls-laser-therapy-banner-300x205.jpg 300w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/mls-laser-therapy-banner-768x525.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/mls-laser-therapy-banner-1536x1050.jpg 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/mls-laser-therapy-banner.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />At Intouch Chiropractic, we use the Multiwave Locked System laser because it combines pain relief with tissue repair in a single treatment. Most of our patients feel warmth during the session but no discomfort, and each treatment typically lasts between 10 to 15 minutes depending on the area being treated.</p> <h2>Can MLS Laser Therapy Treat Neck and Back Pain?</h2> <p>Yes, MLS laser therapy is highly effective for both acute and chronic neck and back pain. The key is understanding what is causing your discomfort in the first place.</p> <h3>What Causes Neck and Back Pain?</h3> <p>Neck and back pain often stem from muscle strains, ligament sprains, herniated or bulging discs, facet joint inflammation, nerve irritation (such as sciatica or cervical radiculopathy), spinal stenosis, and degenerative conditions like arthritis.</p> <p>Many of these conditions share common features: inflammation, poor circulation to injured tissues, muscle spasms, and sensitized nerve pathways that keep sending pain signals even after the original injury.</p> <h3>How Does MLS Laser Therapy Address Back and Neck Pain?</h3> <p><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/mls-laser-therapy/">MLS laser therapy</a> addresses each of these underlying issues described above.</p> <p>The laser reduces inflammation by decreasing pro-inflammatory chemicals in the tissue. It improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to starved muscles and ligaments, which speeds healing.</p> <p>MLS laser therapy also has a direct analgesic effect on nerve fibers, calming down hypersensitive pain receptors. For patients with chronic conditions like degenerative disc disease or arthritis, MLS laser therapy can provide significant relief by managing inflammation and supporting the body’s repair processes, even when full structural healing is not possible.</p> <h2><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-3339" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/mls-laser-therapy-wide-angle-1024x683.jpg" alt="Chiropractor Dr. Jeanett Tapia performs MLS laser therapy on a patient at Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego, CA." width="1024" height="683" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/mls-laser-therapy-wide-angle-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/mls-laser-therapy-wide-angle-300x200.jpg 300w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/mls-laser-therapy-wide-angle-768x512.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/mls-laser-therapy-wide-angle-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/mls-laser-therapy-wide-angle-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/mls-laser-therapy-wide-angle-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />What to Expect from MLS Laser Therapy from Intouch Chiropractic for Neck and Back Pain</h2> <p>At Intouch Chiropractic, we take a comprehensive approach to treating neck and back pain.</p> <p>MLS laser therapy is often a central part of our treatment plan, but we combine it with other therapies to address the root cause of your pain and give you the best possible outcome.</p> <p>Here is what you can expect when you come to our San Diego office for MLS laser therapy:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Thorough Initial Consultation:</strong> Before starting MLS laser therapy, we conduct a detailed examination to identify the exact source of your pain. This may include physical assessments, range of motion testing, and discussion of your health history.</li> <li><strong>Personalized Treatment Plan:</strong> Based on your diagnosis, we will create a customized plan that may combine MLS laser therapy with NUCCA chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression therapy, and rehabilitative exercises.</li> <li><strong>Comfortable Laser Sessions:</strong> During the MLS laser treatment, you will feel a gentle warming sensation as the laser penetrates deep into the affected area. There is no pain or downtime, and sessions typically last 10 to 15 minutes.</li> <li><strong>Progressive Results:</strong> Many patients notice some improvement after just a few sessions, but optimal results typically require a series of treatments. We usually recommend a range of sessions depending on the severity and chronicity of your condition.</li> <li><strong>Integration with NUCCA Care:</strong> As NUCCA specialists, we focus on precise upper cervical alignment. Correcting misalignments in the upper neck can have a profound effect on overall spinal health and pain reduction. MLS laser therapy complements NUCCA adjustments by reducing inflammation and accelerating healing.</li> <li><strong>Spinal Decompression Therapy:</strong> For patients with disc related issues like herniated discs or sciatica, we often combine MLS laser therapy with non surgical spinal decompression. This gentle traction therapy relieves pressure on compressed nerves while the laser promotes healing.</li> <li><strong>Ongoing Support and Education:</strong> We will teach you exercises, stretches, and lifestyle modifications to help prevent future flare ups and maintain your progress long term.</li> </ul> <p><iframe title="MLS Laser Intouch Chiropractic" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1178620588?dnt=1&app_id=122963" width="1080" height="608" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe></p> <p>If you are suffering from chronic neck and back pain and would like to work with our team of expert San Diego chiropractors, <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/">contact us today</a>.</p> <p>Want expert help? Call our office today at (619) 756-7510 or <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>request an appointment here</u></a>.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/does-mls-laser-therapy-work-for-neck-back-pain/">Does MLS Laser Therapy Work for Neck & Back Pain?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Top Benefits of Laser Therapy for Neck Pain</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/top-benefits-of-laser-therapy-for-neck-pain/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Jeanett Tapia, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:34:57 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Laser Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=3997</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Laser therapy has become one of our favorite tools for helping patients finally move past stubborn neck pain at Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego. By delivering specific wavelengths of light...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/top-benefits-of-laser-therapy-for-neck-pain/">Top Benefits of Laser Therapy for Neck Pain</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Laser therapy has become one of our favorite tools for helping patients finally move past stubborn neck pain at <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/">Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego</a>. By delivering specific wavelengths of light into irritated muscles, joints, and nerves, laser therapy can calm inflammation, support tissue repair, and reduce pain without drugs or surgery, which makes it an excellent fit for people searching for laser therapy neck pain San Diego options that are gentle and effective.</p> <p>As NUCCA-focused chiropractors, <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/neck-pain/">we see neck pain improve fastest</a> when we pair precise upper cervical corrections with targeted therapies that support healing in the surrounding tissues.</p> <p>In this article, we will walk through the top benefits of laser therapy for neck pain, how it works at the cellular level, what to expect during a session at Intouch Chiropractic, and why combining laser with NUCCA care can provide longer lasting relief and better mobility for many of our San Diego patients.</p> <p>First, let’s start with what laser therapy is and how it can help neck pain.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-281" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/intouch-laser-hero-1024x700.jpg" alt="Intouch chiropractor assistant doing red light laser therapy to a patient" width="1024" height="700" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/intouch-laser-hero-1024x700.jpg 1024w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/intouch-laser-hero-300x205.jpg 300w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/intouch-laser-hero-768x525.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/intouch-laser-hero-1536x1050.jpg 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/intouch-laser-hero.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p> <h2>What is Laser Therapy?</h2> <p>Laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or cold laser therapy, uses focused light energy to stimulate healing and reduce pain at the source. Unlike surgical lasers that cut tissue, therapeutic lasers work at lower intensities to penetrate deep into muscles, ligaments, and joints without generating heat or causing discomfort.</p> <p>At Intouch Chiropractic,<a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/laser-therapy/"> we use Class IV laser therapy to deliver powerful yet safe treatment that accelerates your body’s natural recovery process</a>.</p> <p>Here are the key things to know about laser therapy at our San Diego clinic:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Non-invasive and drug-free:</strong> Laser therapy offers a natural alternative to pain medications and injections, making it ideal for patients who prefer conservative care or want to avoid side effects from pharmaceuticals.</li> <li><strong>Targets inflammation at the cellular level:</strong> The light energy from the laser penetrates tissue and stimulates mitochondria in your cells, boosting ATP production and reducing inflammatory markers that contribute to neck pain and stiffness.</li> <li><strong>Fast treatment sessions:</strong> Most laser therapy sessions at Intouch Chiropractic last only 5 to 10 minutes, making it easy to fit into your schedule alongside your NUCCA adjustment.</li> <li><strong>Painless and relaxing:</strong> Patients typically feel a gentle warmth during treatment, with no discomfort, needles, or downtime required afterward.</li> <li><strong>Cumulative benefits:</strong> While some of our patients notice relief after the first session, laser therapy works best when delivered in a series of treatments that allow tissue repair to build over time.</li> <li><strong>FDA-cleared and evidence-based:</strong> The Class IV laser systems we use are FDA-cleared medical devices backed by research demonstrating effectiveness for musculoskeletal pain, including neck pain, headaches, and soft tissue injuries.</li> </ul> <p>Next, let’s cover how laser therapy can help neck pain.</p> <h2>How Does Laser Therapy Help Neck Pain?</h2> <p>When neck pain becomes chronic or limits your daily activities, laser therapy provides a scientifically backed solution that addresses the root causes of discomfort. The photobiomodulation process triggered by laser light goes beyond masking symptoms and actually supports your body’s ability to heal damaged tissues, calm irritated nerves, and restore normal function to the cervical spine.</p> <p>Our patients at Intouch Chiropractic often report noticeable improvements in both pain levels and range of motion after incorporating laser therapy into their care plan.</p> <blockquote><p><em>“I have had multiple injuries over the years and can always count on Intouch Chiropractic to help me heal! Both doctors do amazing work and they always have the latest technology. Their advanced laser therapy is incredible. I feel better already after only 2 visits.” –</em> <a href="https://share.google/z2OctmEeebLjKAO4E" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Intouch Chiropractic Laser Review by Elsa G.</a></p></blockquote> <p>Here are the key benefits patients experience when using laser therapy for neck pain:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Reduced inflammation and swelling:</strong> Laser therapy decreases the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increases circulation, which helps flush out inflammatory chemicals that irritate neck tissues and nerves.</li> <li><strong>Faster pain relief:</strong> Many patients notice a reduction in neck pain intensity within the first few sessions as the laser stimulates endorphin release and blocks pain signals from reaching the brain.</li> <li><strong>Improved range of motion:</strong> By reducing muscle spasm, releasing tension, and improving tissue flexibility, laser therapy helps restore normal neck movement and makes it easier to turn your head, look up and down, and perform daily tasks without restriction.</li> <li><strong>Accelerated tissue repair:</strong> The boost in cellular energy (ATP) production speeds up the healing of damaged ligaments, tendons, and muscles in the neck, which is especially helpful for whiplash injuries, muscle strains, and degenerative disc conditions.</li> <li><strong>Better nerve function:</strong> Laser therapy reduces nerve irritation and helps restore proper nerve conduction, which can decrease radiating pain, tingling, or numbness that travels from the neck into the shoulders, arms, or hands.</li> <li><strong>Longer-lasting results when combined with NUCCA care:</strong> At Intouch Chiropractic, we find that laser therapy works synergistically with upper cervical adjustments. The NUCCA correction realigns the atlas vertebra to remove structural stress, while laser therapy supports the soft tissues as they adapt to the new, healthier alignment.</li> <li><strong>No side effects or recovery time:</strong> Unlike medications that can cause drowsiness, digestive issues, or dependency, laser therapy has no known adverse effects and requires no downtime, so you can return to work or exercise immediately after treatment.</li> </ul> <p>Finally, here is what to expect when San Diego patients work with the team at Intouch Chiropractic.</p> <h2>What to Expect from Intouch Chiropractic Laser Therapy Treatment Plans</h2> <p>At Intouch Chiropractic, we believe in personalized care that combines the precision of NUCCA upper cervical adjustments with the healing power of laser therapy.</p> <p>Every treatment plan is designed around your specific condition, goals, and lifestyle, and we take the time to explain what each step will involve so you feel confident and informed. Whether you are dealing with acute neck pain from an injury or chronic discomfort that has lasted for months, our team will guide you through a structured approach that maximizes your results and helps you return to the activities you enjoy.</p> <p><iframe title="Exploring How Laser Therapy from Intouch Chiropractic Can Help Heal the Body" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1178621010?dnt=1&app_id=122963" width="1080" height="608" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin"></iframe></p> <p>Here is what you can expect when you start a laser therapy treatment plan at Intouch Chiropractic:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Comprehensive initial evaluation:</strong> Your first visit includes a detailed consultation, postural analysis, digital X-rays if needed, and a NUCCA-specific exam to identify misalignments in your upper cervical spine that may be contributing to your neck pain.</li> <li><strong>Customized treatment frequency:</strong> Based on your evaluation, we will recommend a laser therapy schedule that fits your condition. Acute injuries may benefit from 2 to 3 sessions per week for a few weeks, while chronic conditions might require a longer treatment plan with sessions spaced out over time.</li> <li><strong>Integration with NUCCA adjustments:</strong> Laser therapy sessions are typically performed on the same visit as your NUCCA correction to support tissue healing and help your body adapt more smoothly to the structural changes. This combination approach is one of the things that sets our San Diego practice apart.</li> <li><strong>Short, efficient sessions:</strong> Each laser therapy session lasts just 5 to 10 minutes, and you will remain fully clothed during treatment. We position the laser applicator over the affected areas of your neck and allow the light energy to penetrate deep into the tissues.</li> <li><strong>Progress tracking and adjustments:</strong> We monitor your response to laser therapy at every visit and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Some patients improve rapidly and need fewer sessions, while others benefit from extended care to achieve lasting relief.</li> <li><strong>No hidden fees or pressure:</strong> We believe in transparent pricing and will always discuss treatment costs upfront. You will never feel pressured into unnecessary services.</li> <li><strong>Education and home care support:</strong> We provide guidance on posture, ergonomics, stretches, and lifestyle modifications that support your recovery and help prevent neck pain from returning.</li> </ul> <p>Our goal is not just to reduce your symptoms but to empower you with the knowledge to maintain long-term spinal health.</p> <p>Want expert help? Call our office today at (619) 756-7510 or <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>request an appointment here</u></a>.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/top-benefits-of-laser-therapy-for-neck-pain/">Top Benefits of Laser Therapy for Neck Pain</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment: Explore Non-Surgical Options</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/degenerative-disc-disease-treatment/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Jeanett Tapia, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 30 May 2025 13:28:40 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Back Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Chiropractic]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Degenerative Disc Disease]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Disc Herniations]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Low Back Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Nucca]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Pinched Nerve]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sciatica]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=671</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/degenerative-disc-disease-treatment/">Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment: Explore Non-Surgical Options</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <div id="fws_6aa3eb618ab30" data-column-margin="default" data-midnight="dark" class="wpb_row vc_row-fluid vc_row top-level" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; "><div class="row-bg-wrap" data-bg-animation="none" data-bg-animation-delay="" data-bg-overlay="false"><div class="inner-wrap row-bg-layer" ><div class="row-bg viewport-desktop" style=""></div></div></div><div class="row_col_wrap_12 col span_12 dark left"> <div class="vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column column_container vc_column_container col no-extra-padding inherit_tablet inherit_phone flex_gap_desktop_10px " data-padding-pos="all" data-has-bg-color="false" data-bg-color="" data-bg-opacity="1" data-animation="" data-delay="0" > <div class="vc_column-inner" > <div class="wpb_wrapper"> <div class="wpb_text_column wpb_content_element " > <p>Degenerative disc disease is a common cause of chronic back and neck pain, affecting millions of people worldwide. As we age, the discs that cushion our vertebrae naturally lose hydration and elasticity, leading to discomfort, stiffness, and reduced mobility.</p> <p>Fortunately, there are effective non-surgical options for degenerative disc disease treatment that can help you manage pain, restore function, and improve your quality of life—without the risks and downtime of surgery.</p> <p>In this blog post, we’ll talk a little bit about degenerative disc disease and the available non-surgical treatments we have used to great success with our San Diego patients.</p> <h2><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-725" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/treatment-degenerative-disc-disease-san-diego-intouch-chiropractic-nucca-upper-cervical-care-spinal-decompression-600x400-1.webp" alt="A man leans over a wooden counter to grab his lower back which shows a cartoon drawing of his lower vertebrae" width="600" height="400" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/treatment-degenerative-disc-disease-san-diego-intouch-chiropractic-nucca-upper-cervical-care-spinal-decompression-600x400-1.webp 600w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/treatment-degenerative-disc-disease-san-diego-intouch-chiropractic-nucca-upper-cervical-care-spinal-decompression-600x400-1-300x200.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" />Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosis</h2> <p><a href="/what-we-treat/degenerative-disc-disease/">Degenerative Disc Disease</a> (DDD) is diagnosed via a combination of a health history, physical examination and radiographic imaging. Also, MRI can be utilized to diagnose and distinguish between a bulging disc, herniated disc, or sequestered disc.</p> <p>To learn more, check out <a href="/blog/bulging-discs-vs-herniated-discs/">bulging discs vs herniated discs</a>.</p> <p>In addition, it is important to make an accurate diagnosis utilizing imaging to tailor a treatment program specific to each patient. This imaging will be very important if you decide to work with a chiropractor, such as the expert team here at <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/">Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego</a>.</p> <p>Now that we’ve given some basic insight into what this disease is, let’s get into treatment for degenerative disc disease.</p> <h2>Treating Degenerative Disc Disease</h2> <h3>Degenerative Disc Disease Home Care</h3> <p>There are steps you can take to heal your body while you are at home. Here are three such suggestions:</p> <ol> <li><strong>We recommend patients move their bodies as much as possible.</strong> For example, going for a walk, exercising, or simply stretching.</li> <li><strong>It is critical to maintain healthy core muscle strength to help support your spine.</strong> That is because the core muscles directly support your spine.</li> <li><strong>You should also eat a healthy diet, drink lots of clean water, and limit or quit smoking.</strong></li> </ol> <h3>Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment</h3> <p>In addition to physical activity and eating right, common treatment options are:</p> <ul> <li>Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers</li> <li>Surgery, such as artificial disc replacement and spinal fusion</li> <li>Heat and cold therapy</li> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/chiropractic-care/">Chiropractic Care</a></li> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/spinal-decompression/">Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression</a></li> </ul> <p>Our doctors recommend that you <em>not rely on pain killers</em>. Not only do they not cure the problem, they are highly addictive.</p> <p>Instead, we recommend a natural, non-pharmaceutical, non-surgical approach that includes <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/nucca-chiropractic/">NUCCA Spinal Care</a> and Non-surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD). The combination of these two innovative and non-invasive treatments is very effective and provides pain relief to many of our patients here in San Diego.</p> <p>NUCCA Spinal Care puts your body in alignment prior to your NSSD treatment. Plus, research studies have shown that 86% of patients respond favorably to Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression treatment alone. NSSD can also help treat disc herniation, facet syndrome and a slipped disc and a reversed cervical curve.</p> <blockquote><p> <em>“Dr. Young and his staff have been wonderful. After my first visit I was actually pleasantly surprised to not have a screaming headache at the end of the day. Such an amazing experience to get some help without taking meds that have harmful affects in the long run, something I really appreciate. Don’t get me wrong, meds have their place and I’m an advocate for making sure to follow doctor’s orders. However, I wanted to see if I could be helped with appropriate adjustments before adding meds or surgery to my needs. I know my body has a good system to heal it sometimes just needs a reminder. Dr. Young and his team helped to remind my body to help itself get stronger.”</em> – <a href="https://g.co/kgs/u9vGrX5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Intouch Chiropractic Review by Becky W.</a> </p></blockquote> <h2>Contact Intouch Chiropractic to Begin Your Treatment</h2> <p>If you would like to see our team of expert chiropractors, <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/">schedule a consultation with our office</a>. We look forward to seeing you and helping you get back to the things you love to do!</p> <p> </p> <p>Want expert help? Call our office today at (619) 756-7510 or <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>request an appointment here</u></a>.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div></div> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/degenerative-disc-disease-treatment/">Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment: Explore Non-Surgical Options</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>How Do You Treat Facet Syndrome?</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/facet-syndrome-neck-back-pain/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Jeanett Tapia, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 30 May 2025 11:04:15 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Back Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Chiropractic]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Disc Herniations]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Low Back Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Nucca]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Pinched Nerve]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=667</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/facet-syndrome-neck-back-pain/">How Do You Treat Facet Syndrome?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <div id="fws_6aa3eb618b7bd" data-column-margin="default" data-midnight="dark" class="wpb_row vc_row-fluid vc_row" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; "><div class="row-bg-wrap" data-bg-animation="none" data-bg-animation-delay="" data-bg-overlay="false"><div class="inner-wrap row-bg-layer" ><div class="row-bg viewport-desktop" style=""></div></div></div><div class="row_col_wrap_12 col span_12 dark left"> <div class="vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column column_container vc_column_container col no-extra-padding inherit_tablet inherit_phone flex_gap_desktop_10px " data-padding-pos="all" data-has-bg-color="false" data-bg-color="" data-bg-opacity="1" data-animation="" data-delay="0" > <div class="vc_column-inner" > <div class="wpb_wrapper"> <div class="wpb_text_column wpb_content_element " > <p>Facet Syndrome is friction between spinal bones resulting in tenderness, swelling, stiffness and pain. Also, persistent, chronic pain in your spine is often linked to facet syndrome. In patients over 50 years of age, facet syndrome is usually caused by normal wear and tear. However, in younger patients, this condition is typically due to trauma and injury.</p> <p>If you’re struggling with stiffness, discomfort, or limited mobility, you may be wondering: <strong>how do you treat facet syndrome</strong>? Fortunately, there are a variety of effective, non-invasive treatments that can help you regain comfort and function—many of which are available through chiropractic care.</p> <p>In this blog post, we’ll cover a few basics about facet syndrome before getting into facet syndrome treatments you can pursue. First, what causes facet syndrome?</p> <h2><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-668" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/facet-syndrome-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-neck-pain-low-back-pain-surgical-decompression-e1607388121830.webp" alt="Explanation of the anatomy of facet joints" width="800" height="704" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/facet-syndrome-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-neck-pain-low-back-pain-surgical-decompression-e1607388121830.webp 800w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/facet-syndrome-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-neck-pain-low-back-pain-surgical-decompression-e1607388121830-300x264.webp 300w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/facet-syndrome-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-neck-pain-low-back-pain-surgical-decompression-e1607388121830-768x676.webp 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" />What Causes Facet Syndrome?</h2> <p>Facet syndrome can happen anywhere in your spine. This syndrome develops in the facet joints between each vertebra. Under normal conditions, these joints are in continuous motion giving the spine both flexibility and stability for every day movements.</p> <p>Did you know that our joint surfaces are lined with cartilage allowing them to move easily over each other? So, as we get older, the cartilage gradually deteriorates, and growths called “bone spurs” develop. As a result, this increased friction between your spinal bones leads to swelling, tenderness, pain and stiffness.</p> <p>Although, in many patients, arthritis is believed to be the result of aging, traumatic injuries and overuse speed up this degenerative process.</p> <h3>What are the Risk Factors for Facet Syndrome?</h3> <p>When a joint is damaged through injury, natural deterioration, or repetitive trauma, the joint will become stiff, swollen and painful. Although, you may experience inflammation, it is typically temporary. However, in arthritic joints, it may cause long-term pain or permanent disability. Below are additional risk factors:</p> <ul> <li>Excessive weight</li> <li>Overuse due to heavy physical labor or sports</li> <li>Presence of conditions such as gout, infections or arthritis</li> <li>Damage may be due to older injuries, including whiplash</li> <li>Sleeping with your neck in a twisted position</li> <li>Family history of facet syndrome</li> <li>Sudden jerk of your neck</li> <li>Even, twisting while you lift something overhead</li> <li>Along with trauma to the spine</li> </ul> <h3>What are the Most Common Symptoms?</h3> <ul> <li>Pain that is worse in the morning or at the end of day</li> <li>Change in weather can worsen pain</li> <li>Lower back pain that travels into the thighs, buttocks, or pelvic area</li> <li>Neck pain that travels into the head, shoulders or arms</li> <li>Headaches that include aches behind the eye, pain at the base of the skull, and/or ringing in the ears</li> <li>The sound of bone on bone when you move</li> <li>Abnormal curvature of your spine</li> <li>Numbness or weakness in your arms or legs</li> <li>Pain when standing for long periods of time</li> <li>Increased pain when riding or sitting in your car for long periods of time</li> </ul> <h3>How Is Facet Syndrome Diagnosed?</h3> <p>Accurate diagnosis starts with an experienced doctor. Facet Syndrome symptoms overlap with several types of disorders. Properly diagnosing the correct cause of your pain is critical to successful treatment.</p> <ul> <li>Firstly, with a thorough clinical examination</li> <li>Secondly, including a complete health history, review of your symptoms, and physical evaluation</li> <li>Testing can include x-rays, MRI or CT scans</li> <li>Lastly, these advanced diagnostic methods ensure that the source of pain is pinpointed</li> </ul> <div id="attachment_2663" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2663" class="size-large wp-image-2663" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/intouch-chiropractic-spinal-stenosis-00001-1024x975.jpg" alt="Dr. Jeanett Tapia works with a patient suffering from spinal stenosis at the Intouch Chiropractic office" width="1024" height="975" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/intouch-chiropractic-spinal-stenosis-00001-1024x975.jpg 1024w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/intouch-chiropractic-spinal-stenosis-00001-300x286.jpg 300w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/intouch-chiropractic-spinal-stenosis-00001-768x731.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/intouch-chiropractic-spinal-stenosis-00001-1536x1463.jpg 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/intouch-chiropractic-spinal-stenosis-00001-2048x1950.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p id="caption-attachment-2663" class="wp-caption-text">Dr. Jeanett Tapia works with a patient at the Intouch Chiropractic office</p></div> <h2>How Do You Treat Facet Syndrome?</h2> <p>The first line of treatment for facet syndrome is almost always non-surgical, focusing on relieving pain, restoring mobility, and preventing further joint degeneration. Here are three common treatments you may come across as you look to deal with facet syndrome:</p> <ul> <li>Facet Joint Injections</li> <li>Medial Branch Blocks</li> <li>Radiofrequency Neurotomy</li> </ul> <p>At our <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/">San Diego chiropractic office</a>, we have seen success with facet syndrome patients using the following treatment types:</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/chiropractic-care/">Chiropractic Care</a></li> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/spinal-decompression/">Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression</a></li> </ul> <p>Above all, as chiropractors, we always encourage patients to opt for non-invasive, drug-free alternatives if at all possible. For instance, for some patients, pain management through narcotics will be required as a last resort. In conclusion, both chiropractic care and Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression are effective in treating neck and low back pain caused by this condition with a natural approach that does not require medication, injections or surgery.</p> <p>If you would like to learn more or to get into the Intouch Chiropractic office for facet syndrome treatment, schedule a consultation.</p> <blockquote><p> <em>“I am so thankful for Intouch Chiropractic! My migraines, neck pain, cognitive and emotional struggles from too many concussions have all become a thing of the past under the care of Dr. Tapia and Dr. Young. I don’t know how I was making it through before NUCCA care!”</em> – <a href="https://g.co/kgs/KRRGdH6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Intouch Chiropractic Review by Amanda B.</a> </p></blockquote> <p>Want expert help? Call our office today at (619) 756-7510 or <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>request an appointment here</u></a>.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div></div> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/facet-syndrome-neck-back-pain/">How Do You Treat Facet Syndrome?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>3 Common Conditions Chiropractors Help</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/3-common-conditions-chiropractors-help/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Devin Young, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 06 Feb 2025 17:24:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Back Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Chiropractic]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Headaches]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Low Back Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Migraine]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Nucca]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=636</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>There are many reasons a person might begin looking for a qualified chiropractor to visit. So if you’ve ever wondered, “what conditions does a chiropractor treat?“, you’re not alone! At...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/3-common-conditions-chiropractors-help/">3 Common Conditions Chiropractors Help</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are many reasons a person might begin looking for a qualified chiropractor to visit. So if you’ve ever wondered, “<strong>what conditions does a chiropractor treat?</strong>“, you’re not alone!</p> <p>At <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/">Intouch Chiropractic in Mission Valley of San Diego, CA</a>, our chiropractors are trained to treat a variety of conditions. However, one of the things we love about chiropractic is that we truly see the patient holistically. At Intouch Chiropractic, we don’t believe patients just have a knee problem, or a neck problem, or a headache and back pain problem. We can’t tell you how many times patients say, “wow, I’m sleeping through the night” or “I don’t have acid reflux anymore.”</p> <p>We always smile when we hear these comments, because oftentimes patients only tell us about the <strong>three common conditions San Diego Chiropractors help</strong>. In this blog post, we’ll cover those 3 main conditions that chiropractors treat and then wrap up by quickly highlighting a variety of other health concerns that chiropractic adjustments are good for!</p> <h2><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-3066" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/nucca-x-ray-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-768x1024.jpg" alt="San Diego chiropractor Dr. Devin Young works with a patient experiencing neck pain" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/nucca-x-ray-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/nucca-x-ray-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-225x300.jpg 225w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/nucca-x-ray-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/nucca-x-ray-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/nucca-x-ray-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />3 Common Conditions for Chiropractic Care</h2> <p>Many of our patients only talk to us about the top 3 conditions we see in our office: back pain, neck pain, and sports performance. Let’s cover each one of these conditions, starting with <strong>back pain</strong>.</p> <h3>Back Pain Chiropractic Adjustments</h3> <p>Over 80% of people will experience low back pain. At Intouch Chiropractic, we have tremendous success with treating this common condition even when we don’t adjust your low back. We have extensive training in this area unlike most healthcare professionals.</p> <p>The standard of care when you see a general medical doctor is a pain killer and a muscle relaxant. These medications can be helpful, but ultimately don’t treat the cause of the problem. They simply mask the pain signals going from your low back to your brain. The pain is still there, but your brain simply doesn’t register it anymore. One patient seeking care after being fed up with pain killers says “all my doubts are gone“, chiropractic care gave her relief from her back pain!</p> <blockquote><p><em>“I was struggling with lower back weakness and pain until I learned of spinal decompression. I was able to do a 2 week vacation recently with none of my original issues! Both Drs at Intouch are great!” – <a href="https://g.co/kgs/Xay1Auw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Intouch Chiropractic Back Pain Review by Robin K.</a></em></p></blockquote> <p>Lower back pain is the number one reasons for workers’ compensation and disability claims, and the costs are massive. Fifty ($50) billion to be exact! If this is you, seeking the care of a chiropractor may be just what you need to get back to normal.</p> <p>For more information on chiropractic care and back pain, here are two relevant blog posts to learn more:</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/the-best-sleep-positions-for-your-back/">What are the Best Sleep Positions for Your Back?</a></li> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/non-surgical-spinal-decompression-vs-back-surgery-exploring-non-invasive-options/">Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression vs Back Surgery</a></li> </ul> <p>One of the next most common reasons patients come to our office is <strong>neck pain</strong>.</p> <h3>Neck Pain Chiropractic Adjustments</h3> <p>Neck pain affects many people. This can be due to micro-traumas from poor ergonomics, poor posture, extensive screen time, funky sleeping positions or self-manipulation. It can also be caused by macro-traumas such as a slip and fall, car accident, sports injury, or work accident. The neck is a fragile part of our bodies with many jobs. Whether you have acute neck pain or chronic neck pain, we can help!</p> <blockquote><p><em>“I’ve been suffering with neck and shoulder pain for years. I’ve tried massages, acupuncture, physical therapy and everything just gave me temporary relief for a day. I knew when I met Dr. Young, that this is what I’ve been looking for. At the end of 20 weeks, I can honestly say that my chronic, daily pain is completely gone. The staff is incredibly friendly and they are always on time. Here, I felt like there was a complete understanding of my core issues and that they had a game plan to address those issues. You don’t find this level of care anywhere. I highly recommend!!” <a href="https://g.co/kgs/USgLvL1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Intouch Chiropractic Neck Pain Review by Frank A.</a></em></p></blockquote> <p>All signals traveling to and from the brain must travel through your neck. That means that even a nerve impulse from your brain to your left big toe must pass through your neck. This is why it’s common for paramedics to place a cervical collar on a patient at the scene of any accident. They want to make sure everything is a-ok before they let you walk around.</p> <p>You even see this every Sunday on the field as football players are placed on stretchers. They do this to lessen the likelihood of permanent damage to the neck which can have a huge impact on body function.</p> <p>Which takes us to another common condition that leads people to seek chiropractic care: <strong>sports injuries</strong>.</p> <h3>Chiropractic Care for Sport Injuries</h3> <p>We see many athletes in our office, from weekend warriors to professional athletes. Muscle imbalances, poor biomechanics, improper form, and poor conditioning can have a huge impact on sports performance.</p> <p>For the majority of our active patients, they want to continue to run, golf, hike, do crossfit… you name it. And to do so in top shape, without pain or discomfort. By scheduling a consultation with our team of expert San Diego chiropractors, we can get a better idea of your sports injury and come up with the perfect treatment plan, tailored to your specific needs.</p> <h2>Chiropractic Care and Common Conditions Overview</h2> <p>Whether it’s pain in your neck or chronic pain in your knee, seeking the professional help of a chiropractor may be a positive step forward in your healing journey. But the three common conditions we’ve listed above are not the only reason we see patients!</p> <p>In addition to neck pain, back pain and sports injuries, here are some of the other common conditions that chiropractors can bring pain relief to:</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/migraines/">Migraines</a></li> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/herniated-bulging-discs/">Herniated and bulging discs</a></li> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/tmj-disorders/">TMJ</a></li> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/pinched-nerve/">Pinched nerves</a></li> <li><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/sciatica/">Sciatica</a></li> <li>And more</li> </ul> <p>You can view more <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/">conditions that our team at Intouch Chiropractic regularly treats</a> on our website. If you are ready to begin your healing journey and work with us to relieve pain, <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/">schedule a consultation</a> today!</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/3-common-conditions-chiropractors-help/">3 Common Conditions Chiropractors Help</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Headaches 101: Exploring the Types, Causes and Headache Treatments</title> <link>https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/headache-relief/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Devin Young, DC]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 01 Feb 2025 19:30:54 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Headaches]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Migraine]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Neck Pain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Nucca]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Upper Cervical Care]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://sandiegonucca.com/?p=437</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Chronic headaches can be debilitating for those who suffer from them. Throbbing pain in any area of the head makes it difficult to focus and simple tasks become difficult ones....</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/headache-relief/">Headaches 101: Exploring the Types, Causes and Headache Treatments</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Chronic headaches can be debilitating for those who suffer from them. Throbbing pain in any area of the head makes it difficult to focus and simple tasks become difficult ones.</p> <p>If you or someone you know suffers from chronic headaches and are looking for answers, you’re in the right place.</p> <p>In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about headaches including the different types of headaches, what causes headaches, and finally, <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/headaches/">headache treatments</a> you can seek.</p> <p>First, let’s begin with <strong>what actually causes headaches</strong> to occur.</p> <h2>Causes of a Headache</h2> <p>The causes of a headache vary greatly. Anything from a simple cold or toothache can cause a headache. Or it could be something more serious like a brain tumor or meningitis. By far, headaches are one of the most common reasons why people go to the doctor. According to The American Journal of Managed Care, nearly 1 in 6 Americans suffer from either episodic migraines or severe headaches every three months.</p> <p>A headache is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Help! Thankfully, at <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/">Intouch Chiropractic in San Diego</a>, we have answers for patients that are tired of taking medications just to be able to get to work or drop off their kids at school. Plus, taking pain killers requires increased doses to have the same desired effect over time. This a lose-lose situation.</p> <p>It’s not uncommon for us to meet patients for the first time and hear that they take over-the-counter painkillers daily. Honestly, that’s horrible. Painkillers are not designed to be taken on a daily basis. We don’t blame these patients, they simply don’t know what else to do to get headache relief. Unfortunately, this relief never lasts and is only temporary. It’s like putting a band-aid on a check engine light.</p> <p>Fortunately, 95% of headaches are not life threatening and are considered benign. The majority of headaches are classified as tension headaches. The second most common is a sinus headache.</p> <p>In the next, let’s cover the main types of headaches before ending with treatment options for people who suffer from chronic painful headaches.</p> <div id="attachment_2205" style="width: 927px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2205" class="wp-image-2205 size-large" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/patient-chiro-care-intouch-chiropractic-california-917x1024.jpg" alt="San Diego Chiropractor Dr. Devin Young performs adjustments for headache treatment on a patient" width="917" height="1024" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/patient-chiro-care-intouch-chiropractic-california-917x1024.jpg 917w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/patient-chiro-care-intouch-chiropractic-california-269x300.jpg 269w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/patient-chiro-care-intouch-chiropractic-california-768x858.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/patient-chiro-care-intouch-chiropractic-california-1375x1536.jpg 1375w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/patient-chiro-care-intouch-chiropractic-california-1833x2048.jpg 1833w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/patient-chiro-care-intouch-chiropractic-california.jpg 1903w" sizes="(max-width: 917px) 100vw, 917px" /><p id="caption-attachment-2205" class="wp-caption-text">San Diego Chiropractor Dr. Devin Young performs adjustments for headache treatment on a patient</p></div> <h2>The 6 Main Types of Headaches</h2> <p>Quickly, let’s give some detail to each of the main headache types. After this list, we’ll go into more detail on three of the more common headache types.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Tension Headaches</strong>: These are the most common type of headaches. They often feel like a tight band around your head and are caused by stress, poor posture, or muscle tension.</li> <li><strong>Migraines</strong>: Migraines are more severe and often come with throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. They can last for hours or even days. If you are suffering from this headache type, learn <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/migraines/">how the Intouch Chiropractic team treats migraines</a>.</li> <li><strong>Cluster Headaches</strong>: Cluster headaches are rare but extremely painful. They come in clusters, meaning you get several headaches in a short period of time, followed by headache-free periods.</li> <li><strong>Sinus Headaches</strong>: These are caused by sinus infections or allergies and often come with facial pain and pressure around the sinuses.</li> <li><strong>Rebound Headaches</strong>: Sometimes, overusing pain medications can lead to rebound headaches, which occur when the medication wears off.</li> <li><strong>Hormone-related Headaches</strong>: These are linked to hormonal changes, often occurring in women during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause.</li> </ol> <p>Now, let’s go into more detail on three of these types including tension headaches, sinus headaches and cluster headaches.</p> <h3>Tension Headaches</h3> <p>Tension headaches are usually caused by muscle contractions in your head, neck and shoulder muscles. They are one of the most common headaches experienced by adults and are often caused by “emotional stress” that leads to stiffness in your muscles and joints. They are also known as stress headaches.</p> <p>There are 2 types of tension headaches. <strong>Episodic tension headaches</strong> happen less than 15 days per month, while <strong>chronic tension headaches</strong> happen more than 15 days per month. Although these headaches are common, they are not normal. That is way too many headaches!</p> <p>The most common symptoms for tension headaches are:</p> <ul> <li>A headache that starts later in the day</li> <li>Insomnia</li> <li>Irritability</li> <li>Feeling very tired</li> <li>Trouble focusing</li> <li>Achy muscles</li> </ul> <p>These headaches typically begin slowly and increase gradually in intensity in the middle of the day. You feel like you have a tight band squeezing your head with a continuous dull ache on both sides, and pain that wraps around to your neck or from your neck.</p> <p>These types of headaches, if not properly treated, can lead to a vicious circle of more muscular tension leading to more intense headaches making it difficult to get tension headache relief.</p> <p>At our San Diego office, we regularly treat people who suffer from tension type headaches. Chiropractic adjustments help alleviate tension headaches by restoring proper alignment of your spine and at the same time releasing the built-up tension in your muscles.</p> <h3>Sinus Headaches</h3> <p>Your sinuses are air-filled spaces inside of your cheekbones, under the the bridge of your nose, and your forehead. When your sinuses get irritated, they make more mucus, swell and get stuffed up. This build-up of pressure causes head pain.</p> <p>It’s important to <strong>differentiate between sinus headaches and migraines</strong>, as they have several similarities:</p> <ol> <li>Both have moderate to severe headache as a symptom.</li> <li>Changes in weather can trigger both conditions.</li> <li>Facial pressure can present with both migraines and sinus headaches.</li> </ol> <p>Because of the location of the sinuses, pain below or above the eyes is a tale-tell sign of a sinus headache. Unless you have an active sinus infection, we don’t recommend taking antibiotics. Especially because many sinus headaches are actually migraines that have been misdiagnosed.</p> <p>Proper diagnosis ensures that you get sinus headache relief. Excessive use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance and digestive issues. Keep in mind that other migraine symptoms are clear nasal drainage, nausea, visual disturbances, and sensory sensitivity.</p> <h3>Cluster Headaches</h3> <p>Cluster headaches get their name from the cyclical pattern in which they happen. It’s very common for patients to say that the pain wakes them up in the middle of the night, with severe pain near one eye or one side of their head. Cluster periods can last from weeks to several months. A period of remission lasting months to years usually follows.</p> <p>The good news is that cluster headaches are rare and typically not life-threatening. Unlike migraine patients, people with cluster headaches feel restless and will pace back and forth. If light sensitivity or sound sensitivity is felt, it is typically only experienced on one side of the face. A single episode can last from 15 minutes to several hours, and often happen at the same time of day. Once the cluster headache clears, patients are pain-free but feel worn out.</p> <p>Now that we’ve covered the main types of headaches, let’s wrap up this Headache 101 blog post with information on headache treatment.</p> <h2><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2208" src="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-768x1024.jpg" alt="Dr. Jeanett Tapia working with a San Diego patient experiencing bulging / herniated disc pain" width="768" height="1024" srcset="https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-225x300.jpg 225w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https://sandiegonucca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/upper-cervical-nucca-positioning-intouch-chiropractic-san-diego-california-scaled.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />How to Treat Chronic Headaches</h2> <p>Taking aspirin for a headache is common, but it merely masks the pain. The pain does not go away! It is still there, you just don’t feel it because the pain messages are being blocked. Sometimes taking medication is inevitable, but it’s not a long term solution. Our doctors provide headache relief for many types of headaches, such as tension headaches, sinus headaches, cluster headaches and more.</p> <p>First, let’s discuss when emergency care for headache disorders is recommended.</p> <h3>When to Seek Emergency Care for Headaches</h3> <p>We recommend you seek emergency care if you experience any of these signs and symptoms:</p> <ul> <li>A severe, abrupt headache, often like a thunderclap</li> <li>A headache with fever, vomiting or nausea, mental confusion, seizures, numbness, or difficulty speaking</li> <li>A headache after an injury to the head, even if you consider it to be a minor injury, and especially if it worsens</li> <li>A sudden and severe headache, described as the worse headache of your life</li> <li>A headache that changes in pattern and worsens over days</li> </ul> <p>Headache pain, even when intense , typically isn’t due to disease. However, it’s important to see your doctor if your headaches suddenly feel different. Rare but severe conditions, such as brain tumors and meningitis, need to be ruled out.</p> <p>Now, for those who are suffering from headaches that don’t require emergency care, here are treatment options that don’t involve taking pain killers or other medications.</p> <h3>NUCCA Spinal Care Provides Headache Relief</h3> <p><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/nucca-chiropractic/">NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) is an upper cervical chiropractic technique</a> that does not require any popping, cracking or twisting of your neck or spine. Patients love that it is a low force technique. The amount of pressure used during the adjustment is the same amount of pressure used to take your pulse. It feels like a gentle touch behind your ear.</p> <p>The upper neck is adjusted only when needed, with the ultimate goal of not needing an adjustment at all. We call this “holding” your adjustment. Many of our patients come in, get checked, and walk out without needing an adjustment. Our ultimate goal is for your body to get stronger over time, and need less intervention from our doctors.</p> <p>When atlas, the first bone in the neck, is misaligned it can put mechanical pressure on spinal nerves and blood vessels. An atlas misalignment can cause muscle spasms and inflammation to the head and neck. This can make a patient more likely to suffer from chronic headaches. Poor posture, text neck, poor ergonomics and even dehydration can all contribute to the frequency of headaches. The NUCCA care for headaches you receive in our office is based on analysis of your unique x-rays.</p> <h3>How Upper Cervical Care Helps the Different Headache Types</h3> <p>Here is how NUCCA care helps treat the different headache types we discussed earlier.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Tension Headaches</strong>: Misalignments in the upper neck can contribute to muscle tension and poor posture, leading to tension headaches. Upper cervical adjustments can correct these misalignments, relieving tension and reducing the frequency and severity of these headaches.</li> <li><strong>Migraines</strong>: Migraines are often linked to nerve irritation or inflammation. Upper cervical care can help by reducing the pressure on nerves caused by misalignments, potentially decreasing the frequency and intensity of migraines.</li> <li><strong>Cluster Headaches</strong>: While the exact cause of cluster headaches is still not fully understood, upper cervical adjustments can improve overall nerve function, potentially helping to reduce the frequency and severity of these intense headaches.</li> <li><strong>Sinus Headaches</strong>: Misalignments in the upper neck can affect blood flow and drainage in the sinuses, leading to sinus headaches. Upper cervical care can help improve blood flow and drainage, reducing sinus-related headaches.</li> <li><strong>Rebound Headaches</strong>: Overuse of pain medications can lead to rebound headaches. Upper cervical care focuses on addressing the root cause of headaches rather than masking the pain with medications, helping to break the cycle of rebound headaches.</li> <li><strong>Hormone-related Headaches</strong>: Hormonal changes can cause headaches. NUCCA adjustments can help maintain proper body alignment improving overall body function.</li> </ol> <h3>Benefits of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care</h3> <p>Upper cervical chiropractic care offers several potential benefits for patients suffering from headaches, particularly those related to misalignments in the upper neck. Here are some of the key benefits:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Non-Invasive Treatment:</strong> Upper cervical care is gentle and doesn’t involve surgery or medication, making it a safe and non-invasive option for headache relief.</li> <li><strong>Customized Adjustments: </strong>Each person’s upper cervical misalignment is unique, so treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s needs.</li> <li><strong>Long-lasting Relief: </strong>By addressing the underlying cause of headaches, upper cervical care aims to provide long-lasting relief, reducing the need for frequent medication.</li> <li><strong>Improved Quality of Life: </strong>Fewer headaches mean improved overall quality of life, allowing you to enjoy your daily activities without the constant worry of pain.</li> </ul> <p><a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/how-we-help/nucca-chiropractic/">Learn more about NUCCA chiropractic care with Intouch Chiropractic.</a></p> <blockquote><p><em>“I’ve been going to Intouch Chiropractic for a better part of this last year, and after 10 years of different conventional Chriropractor treatments, my migraines went away completely within 2 weeks of NUCCA treatment. I’d been suffering for migraines for 17 years and have tried everything. Im thankful for more pain free days, it was a great upfront investment but when you’re in chronic pain 4-5 days a week, you’ll pay almost anything to try to get better. I’m glad I chose this office.”</em> – <a href="https://g.co/kgs/gTu7fBp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Intouch Chiropractic Migraine Treatment Review by Emilia F.</a></p></blockquote> <h2>Headache 101 in Review</h2> <p>In review, headache disorders can feel debilitating, however there is help! Regardless of the headache type you are suffering from, a non-invasive treatment option like NUCCA care is worth exploring. If you are in the San Diego area and eager to begin a <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/what-we-treat/headaches/">treatment plan for your headaches</a>, <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/schedule-appointment/">schedule a consultation with our office today</a>.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com/blog/headache-relief/">Headaches 101: Exploring the Types, Causes and Headache Treatments</a> appeared first on <a href="https://sandiegonucca.com">Intouch Chiropractic</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> </channel> </rss>