Neck pain care in Long Beach for the way you work, sleep and move.
A stiff, sore neck can make it hard to check a blind spot, focus at work or get comfortable at night. We look at your neck, upper back and shoulders together, because neck pain is rarely only a neck problem.
What usually causes neck pain
- Hours of laptop and phone use that pull the head forward
- Sleeping on a pillow that is too high, too flat, or on your stomach
- Stress that keeps the shoulders and upper traps tight all day
- A stiff upper back that forces the neck to do more of the work
- Sudden jolts from a fall, a sports collision or a car accident
- Overhead work or training that strains the shoulder and neck together
Signs your neck needs attention
Neck problems do not always stay in the neck. Patients often come in for one of these before they realize they are connected.
- Stiffness when turning your head, especially in the morning
- A knot or ache between the shoulder blades
- Headaches that start at the base of the skull
- Pain, tingling or heaviness that travels into the shoulder or arm
- Clicking or grinding with neck movement
How we treat neck pain
After a careful exam, including checks of arm strength, reflexes and sensation, care may include gentle cervical and upper back adjustments, soft-tissue work, and targeted exercises for the deep neck and shoulder blade muscles. We also look at your workstation and sleep setup, because small changes there keep progress from undoing itself between visits.
If you prefer not to have your neck adjusted with a quick thrust, tell us. Lower-force options are available and your comfort decides the technique.
When neck pain needs medical care first
Seek emergency care before any chiropractic visit if neck pain comes with:
- A recent fall, car accident or blow to the head with severe pain
- Sudden severe headache, dizziness, trouble speaking or vision changes
- Fever with a stiff neck
- Progressive weakness, numbness or clumsiness in the arms or legs
This page is educational and is not medical advice. Results vary, and whether chiropractic care is appropriate for you is decided after an in-person evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
Is neck adjusting safe?
Serious complications are rare, and we screen every patient before treating the neck. Gentle, low-force techniques are available if you prefer them, and we will always explain what we are doing first.
Can poor posture really cause neck pain?
Posture is one factor among several. Long periods in any one position, stress, sleep and upper back stiffness all play a role. We focus on what is relevant for you rather than chasing a perfect posture.
What pillow is best for neck pain?
One that keeps your neck roughly level with your spine in the position you actually sleep in. We can make specific suggestions at your visit based on how you sleep.
Can you help neck pain from a car accident?
Yes. Whiplash-type injuries have their own considerations, including documentation for insurance. See our car accident injury page for details.
Move Better. Feel Better. Live Better.
Your health isn’t built during one appointment. It’s built through what you do every day.
Prefer to talk? Call (562) 277-1910