Turn, Look Down, and Sleep Without That Nagging Ache
The neck, or cervical spine, starts at the base of the skull and is made up of seven small vertebrae. It supports a head that weighs about 12 pounds and moves it in nearly every direction. That flexibility also makes the neck very prone to pain and injury. At Fike Chiropractic in Tulsa, OK , we look for the cause of your neck pain so you can get relief that lasts.
Request an AppointmentCommon Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain rarely comes out of nowhere. It usually builds from daily habits or follows a specific event. The most common causes we see include:
- Long hours looking down at a phone, tablet, or laptop
- Poor posture at a desk or while driving
- Whiplash from a car accident, fall, or sports collision
- Sleeping in an awkward position or on an unsupportive pillow
- Muscle strain from lifting, overhead work, or repetitive motion
- Age-related changes in the spine, including worn discs and joints
If your pain began after a crash, our care for auto injuries may be a good fit.
Signs Your Neck May Need Attention
- Stiffness or limited motion when turning your head
- A constant dull ache or sharp pain at the base of the skull or between the shoulder blades
- Muscle tightness, knots, or spasms in the neck and upper back
- Tension headaches that start in the neck
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness that travels into the shoulder, arm, or hand
How We Approach Neck Pain in Tulsa
Every neck is different, so we start with a conversation about your symptoms, history, and daily routine, followed by a hands-on exam. The goal is to find out which joints, muscles, or habits are driving the problem rather than only masking it. From there, your plan may include:
- Chiropractic care to restore healthy joint motion and ease pressure on irritated areas
- Corrective exercises to strengthen the muscles that support your neck and improve posture
- Physiotherapy and therapeutic modalities to calm inflammation and muscle tension
- Lifestyle advice on workstation setup, sleep position, and daily habits that put strain on your neck
We explain what we find, walk you through your options, and adjust your plan as you improve.
When to Seek Care Right Away
Schedule a visit if neck pain lasts more than a few days, keeps coming back, or interferes with work, driving, or sleep. Seek emergency care if neck pain comes with a high fever, severe sudden headache, loss of strength, trouble speaking or walking, or follows a serious accident.
Neck Pain Questions, Answered
What causes neck pain?
Neck pain can come from poor posture, prolonged screen time, sleeping positions, muscle strain, whiplash injuries, or age-related wear on the discs and joints of the cervical spine. Often several of these factors combine over time.
Can a chiropractor help with neck pain?
Yes. Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper joint movement and reducing stress on the surrounding muscles and nerves. Many people with neck stiffness and tension find relief when care is paired with posture work and corrective exercises.
What should I expect at my first neck pain visit?
We review your health history, ask about when and how your pain started, and perform an exam of your neck, shoulders, and spine. Then we explain what we found and recommend a care plan. Treatment may begin the same day when appropriate.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on what is causing your pain, how long you have had it, and how your body responds. A recent muscle strain often needs less care than long-standing or injury-related pain. We will give you a clear estimate after your exam and update it as you progress.
Can neck pain cause headaches?
Yes. Tight muscles and irritated joints in the upper neck are a common source of tension-type headaches. If your headaches begin at the base of the skull or worsen with neck movement, treating the neck may help. You can learn more about our approach to headaches and migraines.
How do I know if my neck pain is serious?
Pain that comes with numbness or weakness in the arms, fever, a severe sudden headache, or follows significant trauma should be evaluated promptly. If you have trouble speaking, walking, or controlling your limbs, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
What can I do at home to ease neck pain?
Gentle movement, regular breaks from screens, a supportive pillow, and keeping your screen at eye level can all help. Heat or ice may ease soreness for short periods. If pain lingers beyond a few days, it is worth having your neck examined.
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Ready to Move Your Neck Freely Again?
Call (918) 664-8281 or request a visit online, and our team at Fike Chiropractic will help you take the first step toward relief.