What is Military Neck?
Military neck is a form of lordosis (or irregular curvature) along the cervical spine. This condition, characterized by the neck taking on a ‘standing to attention’ position, occurs when there is a kyphotic spinal deformity along the lordotic curve (the natural curve of the neck). This condition can occur in anyone who has suffered trauma to the upper cervical spine, not just individuals who have served in the military.
Signs and Symptoms of Military Neck
There are many possible causes of military neck, but the condition most commonly occurs due to trauma events like whiplash or ligament damage along the upper cervical spine. Other causes of military neck could be degenerative disc diseases or congenital disorders.
If you think you might be suffering from military neck, keep an eye out for the following symptoms: frequent headaches, stiffness and pain in the neck, spinal deformity, reduced neck mobility, bowel control issues, and impaired coordination. In severe or prolonged cases, military neck can lead to more serious conditions, such as mobility issues or even paralysis.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Military Neck
The upper cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae in the neck (C1-C7), and is located directly below the skull. These seven vertebrae are responsible for the stability and mechanical support of the head, neck, and shoulders.
Military neck is often caused by compression in the spinal cord due to misalignment in the upper cervical spine. The result of this compression is an interference with the function and coordination of the upper neck and head. The ensuing inflammation in the muscles and ligaments of the upper back and neck can limit mobility in the neck, eventually leading to the development of an irregular curve along the upper segment of the spinal column.
How Our Military Neck Treatment Works
Upper cervical chiropractic treatment is a non-invasive chiropractic treatment that focuses on precise spinal correction techniques. This form of chiropractic care specifically addresses misalignments in the upper cervical spine, removing pressure and interference from the spinal cord which, in turn, allows the nervous system to resume regular function and the neck to regain normal mobility.
During an upper cervical chiropractic appointment for military neck, our upper cervical specialist, Dr. Bello, will create an individualized plan to identify the cause of your pain, locate the primary area of concern, and adjust your upper cervical spine. This process typically involves various diagnostic techniques, including cone-beam computed tomography scans, to pinpoint the exact angle and location of any misalignments in the upper cervical spine.
Once the misalignment has been identified, Dr. Bello will use gentle manipulation techniques to correct the upper cervical spine, resolving kyphotic spinal deformities and restoring natural alignment to the upper segment of the spinal column.
If you’re suffering from military neck, upper cervical chiropractic care can provide you with relief. Dr. Bello services patients in Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Culver City, Westwood, Los Angeles, Marina Del Rey, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, and the surrounding areas.