Expert: Dr. J. Shawn Leatherman - 6/15/2008

Question
I am 26 years old and though I have had back and neck pain before, its never been as bad as it is.  I feel like even when I stand or sit with good posture, my head is tilted diagonally to one side as in my chin is pointing toward my shoulder as opposed to strait out.  also sometimes when I turn my head one way (to my left the way it feels like my chin is pointed) I get a shooting pain up the rest of my neck and left side of my face going up to my skull close to my left ear.  I can also rotate my head further to the left (as if to look behind me) than I can to the right. People have said its anything from my upper back and neck muscles being more developed on one side of my body to a curve in my spine and I don't know what to do.  is there anything I can do at home to help? should I go to my doctor, a chiropractor or massage therapist???

Answer
Dear Chris,

Well is sounds like you definitely have some muscle imbalance, and muscle spasms most likely in the upper fibers of the trapezius, levator scapulae and sternocleidomastoid muscles.  But what is the cause?  The best things you can do at home are gentle stretching techniques, ice and over the counter pain meds for inflammation, and getting this checked out.  You need to have a physical examination of the head neck and upper back which should include range of motion testing and measurement, neurological and orthopedic assessment, deep tendon reflexes, and muscular strength, along with a complete medical history.  I would also recommend a two view x-ray series of the neck if the physical exam warrants.

The best advice I can give you is the chiropractic route...a massage therapist will likely help reduce pain, but will not be able to affect the underlying spinal structures, and a medical doctor will just give you pain meds and muscle relaxers.

The chiropractic physician is the musculoskeletal expert.  The types of pain and issues you are exhibiting is what we excel in treating.  Take the time to research some chiropractors in your area and check out their websites so that you can get an idea of what their qualifications and office are like.  Also ask friends and family or coworkers for a referral to a chiropractor they have gone to and had success with.  These are the best ways to ensure you are getting a good doctor.

Feel free to look at my website if you wish to get something for comparison:  www.suncoasthealthcare.net Moreover, feel free to write back with additional comments or questions before of after your examination.  Good Luck!

Respectfully,
Dr. J. Shawn Leatherman