What Is Neck Pain?
The cervical spine — the top seven vertebrae of your spinal column — supports the weight of your head (roughly 10–12 pounds) and allows the widest range of motion of any spinal region. This mobility makes it especially vulnerable to injury.
Neck pain can originate from muscles, facet joints, intervertebral discs, ligaments, or compressed nerves. It may be localized to the neck itself or radiate into the shoulders, arms, and hands. In Arlington, neck pain is one of the most common complaints we see — especially after motor vehicle accidents.
Left untreated, cervical dysfunction can lead to chronic headaches, reduced range of motion, nerve damage, and significant quality-of-life decline.
Common Neck Pain Symptoms
What Causes Neck Pain?
Car Accidents & Whiplash
The sudden acceleration-deceleration force in a collision stretches cervical ligaments and muscles beyond their normal range, causing sprains, strains, and disc injuries.
Tech Neck & Poor Posture
Looking down at phones and laptops for hours shifts the head forward, adding up to 60 pounds of effective force on the cervical spine and causing chronic strain.
Cervical Disc Herniation
A damaged disc in the neck can bulge or rupture, pressing on spinal nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates into the arm and hand.
Degenerative Changes
Osteoarthritis and cervical spondylosis cause bone spurs, disc thinning, and facet joint inflammation that progressively limit neck mobility.
Sleeping Position
An unsupportive pillow or sleeping in an awkward position can strain neck muscles and ligaments, causing morning stiffness and pain.
How We Treat Neck Pain
Dr. Crifase develops a personalized treatment protocol based on the specific cause and severity of your neck pain:
Cervical Adjustments
Precise, controlled adjustments to restore proper alignment of the cervical vertebrae, reducing nerve irritation and improving mobility.
Cervical Traction
Gentle decompression to create space between compressed vertebrae, relieving pressure on discs and nerves.
Trigger Point Therapy
Targeted pressure on muscular knots in the neck and upper back to release chronic tension and restore blood flow.
Postural Correction
Ergonomic guidance and corrective exercises to address the postural habits causing or perpetuating your neck pain.
Rehabilitation Exercises
Strengthening and stretching protocols to stabilize the cervical spine and prevent recurrence.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
We'll perform a comprehensive examination including range-of-motion testing, orthopedic tests, neurological screening, and palpation of the cervical spine. If imaging is warranted, we coordinate MRI or X-ray through our referral network.
You'll leave with a clear diagnosis, a treatment plan timeline, and — if clinically appropriate — your first adjustment the same day.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
- ⚠ Neck pain after a fall or high-speed collision with neurological symptoms
- ⚠ Progressive weakness in both arms or legs
- ⚠ Loss of coordination or difficulty walking
- ⚠ Severe headache with stiff neck and fever (possible meningitis)
For non-emergency neck pain — including post-accident stiffness and chronic discomfort — call us for a same-week appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does neck pain treatment take?
Most patients see significant improvement in 4–8 weeks. Chronic conditions may require ongoing maintenance care.
Is it safe to get a neck adjustment?
Yes. Cervical adjustments performed by a licensed chiropractor are safe and well-studied. Dr. Crifase uses gentle techniques appropriate for your condition.
Can neck pain cause headaches?
Absolutely. Cervicogenic headaches originate from dysfunction in the cervical spine and are one of the most common types we treat.
Should I see a chiropractor for neck pain after a car accident?
Yes — ideally within 72 hours. Early treatment documents your injury for insurance purposes and prevents the condition from worsening.
Do you accept insurance for neck pain treatment?
We accept most major plans, PIP, MedPay, workers' comp, and Letters of Protection for attorney-represented patients.