Neck Pain Relief

Neck Pain Relief in Brentwood, CA

A stiff, sore neck makes everything harder — driving, working at a computer, sleeping, even looking over your shoulder. Neck pain is one of the most common reasons people visit Actus Chiropractic. Dr. Val Tompkins finds the cause of your neck pain and builds a personalized plan to relieve it without relying on pain medication.

Common Causes of Neck Pain

• Tech neck and poor posture from phones, laptops and long hours at a desk
• Whiplash from car accidents or sports collisions
• Muscle strain from sleeping wrong, lifting or sudden movements
• Pinched nerves that cause pain, numbness or tingling into the arm or hand
• Disc problems such as bulging or degenerated discs
• Arthritis and joint stiffness that build up over time
• Stress and tension that tighten the neck and shoulders

Symptoms We Help With

• Neck stiffness and limited range of motion
• Tension headaches and headaches at the base of the skull
• Pain between the shoulder blades
• Shoulder and arm pain linked to the neck
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
• Jaw (TMJ) tension

How Chiropractic Care Relieves Neck Pain

Your neck holds up a head that weighs about 10–12 pounds — and for every inch your head drifts forward, the strain on your neck increases. When joints in the neck lose normal motion, the surrounding muscles tighten and nerves can become irritated.

Your neck pain treatment plan may include:

• Specific cervical adjustments to restore normal joint motion, using Gonstead, Diversified or gentle low-force techniques like KST — no twisting or "cracking" required if you prefer
• Cold laser therapy to help calm inflammation and support healing
• Corrective "blueprint" exercises to strengthen postural muscles and keep your neck aligned
• Ergonomic and lifestyle advice for your workstation, phone habits and sleeping position

Tips to Prevent Neck Pain at Home

• Raise your screen to eye level and keep your phone up, not in your lap
• Take a movement break every 30–45 minutes at work
• Sleep on your back or side with a pillow that keeps your neck level
• Avoid carrying heavy bags on one shoulder

When Neck Pain Needs Immediate Care

Seek emergency care for neck pain after major trauma, with fever and a stiff neck, or with sudden weakness, severe headache or loss of coordination.

Neck Pain FAQs

Can a chiropractor help a stiff neck? Yes. Chiropractic adjustments restore motion to restricted joints, which often eases stiffness and muscle tension quickly.

Can neck problems cause headaches? Yes. Tension in the upper neck is a common source of headaches. Many patients find their headaches improve as neck function improves.

Do you have to "crack" my neck? No. Dr. Val offers gentle, low-force techniques that involve no twisting or popping.

How many visits will I need? It depends on the cause and how long you've had the pain. Dr. Val will outline a clear plan at your first visit.

Can a chiropractor help a pinched nerve in the neck? In many cases, yes. Improving joint motion and alignment can reduce pressure on irritated nerves. Dr. Val will refer for imaging if needed.

Find Lasting Neck Pain Relief

Call Actus Chiropractic at (925) 516-2363 or request an appointment online(opens in new tab). Serving Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch, Discovery Bay, Byron and Knightsen.