Neck Pain Treatment: All about neck pain problems and the treatments

At Chiropractie Centraal we see that about half of our clients suffer from neck pain for years before they receive the help they need.

Book an appointment

1. Anatomy of the neck

2. Causes of Chronic Neck Pain

3. Why other treatments often fail

4. Symptoms of Chronic Neck Pain

5. The Chiropractic Central Approach

6. Chiropractic adjustment

7. Proven results

8. Exercises and lifestyle advice

Anatomy of the neck

The neck consists of seven bones, the vertebrae. Between most vertebrae is an intervertebral disc, which acts as a cushion and allows the spine to bend and rotate. At the back of the neck are two facet joints—these are synovial joints, meaning the bone surfaces are covered with smooth cartilage and surrounded by a capsule filled with synovial fluid.

The vertebral joints are surrounded by small and large muscles, which together allow for a wide range of motion. These movements are controlled by the brain via the nervous system. The joints in the neck also send information back to the brain about their position, so your body knows where it is in space.

Causes of chronic neck pain

Although accidents such as car crashes or falls can cause neck pain, 80% of cases of chronic neck pain are not caused by a single incident.

The main cause: repeated strain

Where exactly does the pain come from?

Common causes we see every day:

Degeneration or injury of the outer layer of the intervertebral disc
Inflammation of the facet or uncinate joints after an injury
Wear and tear of cartilage due to incorrect movement or overload
Muscle tension and cramps in the paraspinal muscles
Nerve compression due to an intervertebral disc

Why other treatments often fail

Our own research shows that 80% of clients with severe chronic neck pain had tried physiotherapy (often multiple times), 30% had visited their GP, 30% had tried massage, and some had even repeatedly tried cracking their neck themselves—usually without lasting results.

While physiotherapy, massage, mobilization, medication, or injections can often provide relief, people often feel hopeless when these treatments are ineffective.

In the Netherlands, many people don't immediately think of a chiropractor when they have neck pain. Sometimes they've tried numerous treatments before coming to us.

Symptoms of Chronic Neck Pain

Many patients have experienced severe neck pain for years, often without a clear cause. What begins as stiffness and mild aches can gradually worsen into severe and frequent pain in the neck and shoulders.

With gradual worsening we often see additional complaints:

Many people have tried multiple physical therapy sessions and massages, often with only temporary relief. Chronic neck pain affects everyone's life—from work to sports and social activities.

The Chiropractic Central Approach

We employ only chiropractors with a recognized five-year university degree, which is recognized in all countries where chiropractic care is regulated. We operate on an evidence-based basis and regularly train with leading specialists worldwide.

We know that no treatment is 100% effective for everyone. But if you think chiropractic care hasn't worked before, it might be because you haven't seen a certified chiropractor. That's why we offer a free, no-obligation second opinion.

Extensive Intake

We listen to your complaints, analyze previous treatments, and determine whether chiropractic care is suitable. If we believe we can help you, we'll explain exactly how and why.

Chiropractic Adjustments

With gentle, targeted corrections we restore normal movement and function of joints, allowing nerves, muscles and joints to function optimally again.

Chiropractic adjustments

The most common cause of neck pain we see is vertebral subluxation complex: a joint in the spine doesn't move properly due to repetitive strain or trauma. This causes stiffness, increased muscle tension, and ultimately pain. With gentle, targeted correction, we restore normal joint movement and function, allowing nerves, muscles, and joints to function optimally again.

Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments

Better shock absorption in the synovial joints

Muscle relaxation and relief from cramps

Reduction of inflammatory reactions in the joint

Reduction of chronic pain signals

Better nutrition and waste removal in the intervertebral disc

Proven results

From our own research with clients with chronic neck pain

91%

Improvement or strong improvemen

66%

Less pain on average

54%

More energy

44%

Better mood

Exercises and lifestyle advice

Once spinal function has been restored, we provide targeted exercises for strength, flexibility, and maintaining the natural curvature of the neck.
We also offer lifestyle advice to prevent recurrence, such as an ergonomic workstation for sedentary work.

Do you have questions about your chronic neck pain?

Our experienced chiropractors are ready to help you. Request a free consultation for personalized advice.