Managing Chronic Neck Pain In Desk Workers With Osteopathy

Dr Jarryd Crisp-OSTEOPATH | SENIOR OSTEOPATH-Double Bachelor of Health Science/Applied Science (Osteopathy), Bachelor of Health Sciences

In today’s digital era, desk workers spend prolonged hours in front of computers, leading to a significant increase in musculoskeletal issues, particularly chronic neck pain. This persistent discomfort can have a detrimental impact on productivity and overall well-being. While various approaches exist for managing chronic neck pain, one alternative worth considering is osteopathy. Osteopathic treatments focus on the holistic well-being of the individual and can provide effective relief from chronic neck pain. This blog post explores how osteopathy can help desk workers manage chronic neck pain and improve their quality of life.

1. Correcting Postural Imbalances: Prolonged sitting at a desk often leads to poor posture, contributing to neck pain. Osteopathic practitioners examine the spine, muscles, and joints to identify and correct postural imbalances. Through manual techniques, such as manipulation, soft tissue massage, and stretching exercises, osteopathy helps restore alignment and relieve tension in the neck region, reducing chronic pain.
2. Enhancing Joint Mobility and Flexibility: Stiffness in the neck joints is a common symptom of chronic neck pain. Osteopathy employs techniques to mobilize the joints and improve their range of motion. By gently manipulating the cervical spine and surrounding tissues, osteopaths can alleviate restrictions and enhance joint flexibility, ultimately reducing pain and increasing functional movement.
3. Reducing Muscle Tension: Desk workers often experience muscle tension and knots in the neck and shoulder region, leading to chronic pain. Osteopathy utilizes techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy to address muscular imbalances. By releasing tension and tightness in the affected muscles, osteopathic treatments promote relaxation, decrease pain, and restore optimal muscle function.
4. Addressing Nerve Impingements: Chronic neck pain can also arise from nerve impingements or compression. Osteopaths assess the nervous system to identify any areas of nerve entrapment or irritation. By employing gentle techniques, such as nerve mobilization and soft tissue manipulation, they can alleviate pressure on the nerves, promoting pain relief and improved nerve function.
5. Providing Patient Education and Self-Care Strategies: In addition to hands-on treatments, osteopaths play a crucial role in educating patients about self-care strategies. They offer advice on ergonomics, posture correction, and exercises that can be performed at home or at the workplace. By empowering desk workers with the knowledge and tools to manage their condition proactively, osteopathy helps prevent further episodes of chronic neck pain and promotes long-term well-being.

If you have any questions regarding chronic neck pain, please do not hesitate to contact either our Melton clinic on 9747 0077, or our Bacchus Marsh clinic on 5367 0400.

References:

1. Vallone S, Arienti C, Candeloro E, et al. Osteopathic manipulative treatment in chronic cervicogenic headache: a randomized controlled trial. The Journal of Headache and Pain. 2018;19(1):1-8.
2. Dunk NM, Callaghan JP. Lumbar spine and pelvic posture between standing and sitting: a radiologic investigation including reliability and repeatability of the lumbar lordosis measure. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2010;33(1):48-55.
3. Cerritelli F, Chiacchiaretta P, Gambi F, et al. Effectiveness of osteopathic manipulative treatment in the management of chronic migraine: a randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2015;23(2):149-156.
4. Engström T, Fredriksson L, Länne T, et al. Acute and chronic neck pain: cervical angle, headache, and pain intensity differences between cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility and neck proprioception. The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy. 2005