Neck pain: Physical therapy or chiropractor?

Every year more than 30% of people experience neck pain, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pain in this area can come from a whiplash injury you received in a car accident. It could also be related to a recently developed sports injury, or you might have a posture problem that’s causing your pain. 

There are many treatment options that people can use for neck pain. Two of the most popular options are seeing a chiropractor or physical therapist. These professionals use some of the same techniques, but there are also several key differences between them. Understanding the differences between physical therapy and seeing a chiropractor can help you choose the best treatment option for your neck pain. 

Physical therapy and chiropractic care have different goals when treating neck pain 

One factor to consider when choosing between physical therapy or chiropractic care for neck pain is that each has different goals. A chiropractor’s main goal will be to realign the vertebrae in your neck. In turn, this realignment can help reduce pressure on nerves and decrease pain.

Physical therapists are part of the health care team that can help you achieve your goal of taking care of your neck pain. First of all, they’ll work to help you regain any mobility you’ve lost in your neck. These specialists will also seek to stretch and strengthen the muscles that support your neck. In addition, they can deploy techniques designed to improve facet joint range of motion. Physical therapy can be used to help prevent future injuries as well. 

Is physical therapy or chiropractic care more effective at reducing neck pain?

Many medical studies have been performed on both chiropractic care and physical therapy. One study in particular could help you decide between them when you have neck pain. In this study, six experienced chiropractors provided 12 weeks of treatment for one group of patients. Another group was provided with a home exercise program. This program was personalized for them by six experienced physical therapists. The therapists also provided any necessary instruction for performing the therapeutic exercises. 

After 12 weeks, most patients in the chiropractic care group reported at least a 50% reduction in their neck pain. However, most of the physical therapy group patients reported at least a 75% decrease in their pain.

Find effective physical therapy for neck pain at Armor Physical Therapy

Do you think physical therapy could be the best treatment option for your neck pain? Our team at Armor Physical Therapy is ready to help you get the physical therapy you need. We offer free screenings that can help reveal the source of your pain. With this information, our team of experienced therapy specialists can create a treatment plan that’s personalized to your needs. 

Contact us today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.