Chiropractors are well known for treating back pain and back problems by adjusting the spine. But the spine does not end at the back; it also extends into the neck. As such, people often go to the chiropractor to treat their neck pain and related problems. If you have an appointment coming up, you might have a few questions about chiropractic care and neck adjustments. Discover the answers below.

Will it hurt to have your neck adjusted?

You might have heard people say they had their neck adjusted and suffered pain afterward, or that they are afraid to have their neck adjusted because they fear it will sting. This may have you wondering how painful neck adjustments are. The good news is that they're not very painful. Yes, some people have some stiffness and soreness during the days after treatment, but this is normal and will go away on its own. It's just muscle soreness as a result of adjusting the spine and the amount of tension being placed on the muscles. 

Do you have to have your neck adjusted?

Some chiropractors always include neck adjustment as a part of their care. Others only adjust your neck if you are having trouble with migraines, neck stiffness, or other specific problems that tend to be improved with neck adjustments. If your chiropractor is recommending a neck adjustment, it's probably a good idea to have one. However, if you do decide you're uncomfortable with this sort of treatment, you can ask the chiropractor to work on your back, only. Or, you can have them use other, gentle remedies on your neck. Massage and heat therapy are helpful if you don't wish to have an adjustment.

How do chiropractors adjust the neck?

There are two methods a chiropractor can use to adjust the neck. They may use their hands to adjust the spine. Or, they may use a little tool called an activator. Chiropractors who have been in practice for a long time tend to use their hands, while newer chiropractors are often trained to use an activator. The activator tends to be gentler, but most chiropractors can perform a gentle and effective neck adjustment with their hands as well.

The answers to these questions should help guide you when it comes to chiropractic treatment for your neck. If you have any other concerns, talk to a chiropractor such as Eric Schmetterling DC.