Chronic neck pain is usually any pain in the neck that lasts longer than six months. The pain can be mild, moderate, or excruciating, depending on the cause. It can be characterized by low levels of pain that sometimes peaks and gets worse.

It can also get worse when performing certain activities or assuming specific positions.

Doctors have estimated that 70 percent of people will develop some type of chronic neck pain during their lifetimes. Even when the pain is intense, it very seldom requires surgery. Chronic neck pain normally responds quite well to at-home care, techniques of self-help, or specifically designed pain management plans.

Neck pain is as common as it is because the neck supports the weight of the head but must still must allow the head to turn, tilt from side to side, and nod. Chronic pain generally begins after years of normal use, overusing the neck, or even misuse.

Most incidents of chronic neck pain are treatable. Many doctors will suggest a treatment plan made up of several therapies or combinations of therapies. Often, the doctor will place part of the treatment in the hands of the patient to manage. The time it takes to get relief depends on how complex the pain is.

There is no best way to treat chronic neck pain. Even with a combination of treatments, the results may either be minimal or not last very long. A longer treatment time does not necessarily mean more improvement.

Most neck pain is considered to be one of two types: “Grade I”, which means there is no signs of damage and the pain does not impede daily activities. “Grade II” pain also shows no sign of damage, but the pain does interfere with activity. These are considered to be non-traumatic neck pain. The most effective treatments for Grade I and Grade II chronic neck pain include:

·               Manipulation through massage or chiropractic

·               Supervised exercise through physical therapy sessions

·               Manual physical therapy plus an exercise routine

·               Acupuncture

·               Low level laser therapies

·               Pain relieving medications

·               Mobilization

·               Simple neck stretches

The patient’s preferences for treatment should always be considered when device a treatment plan.