Expert: Dr. Victor Dolan, DC, DACBSP - 2/16/2009

Question
Hi-I have suffered with neck issues for years.  I have had acupuncture and chiropractic work but I am not getting the relief I need.  I study vocal music and "over sing".  And it takes a toll on my body especially my neck.  My husband swears by a neck harness when done properly.  I am trying to really watch my posture all day no matter what I am doing.  Is a neck harness okay to do?  thank you heather

Answer
neck pain



Hello Heather,

I am sorry to hear of your problem.  

With everything we do in life, we need 'experts' to help.  We need to have coaches to make sure we practice proper techniques to protect ourselves from injury, perform at our best.  One recommendation: get a good coach!

'Neck harness', I am not exactly sure what you mean by 'neck harness'.
Do you mean a soft collar to wear in your daily activities?
Do you mean cervical traction, ie: cervical over the door traction (harness and pulley)?




Here are websites/ pictures , so that we can understand each other:


soft collar:  http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=cervical+soft+collar+picture&btnG=Search

cervical over the door traction harness:  http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=cervical+over+the+door+traction+picture&btn...

cervical traction device:  http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=cervical+traction+pronex+picture&btnG=Searc...

cervical support pillow:  http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=cervical+pillow+picture&btnG=Search

comfortable neck traction:  http://www.promedproducts.com/itemdetail.asp?cat=409502&MENU=409502&item=860+005...


You are going to a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC), often called the 'spine specialist'; communicate!, ASK questions!
Do not be shy.  Your doctor has your Xrays, MRIs, examination findings, treatment response, etc.  Ask about neck support products with your doctor he(she) should be able to help you make a wise choice.

I am usually NOT in favor of supports, except for short term, acute pain use.  Belts, braces, supports can become crutches, can become permanent needs.  Muscles ATROPHY quickly-  weakness can be measured in just one or two days of immobilizing or supporting a body part.

If someone is hurting bad enough for an acute injury; TEMPORARY support can be given.  Once we use a brace/ support/ belt for an extended period of time,,,,,, then the need for that support can become permanent.

If you are doing an activity the often aggravates your body, injures your body,,,,,,,,,,,,,, maybe you better look at your technique(s).
Can you improve/ change your mechanics/ postures/ movements ??
Do you have a coach?, a technique instructor?  Rather then treating/ repairing damage AFTER it is done, perhaps you can prevent the damage?

Similar question/ answer:  http://en.allexperts.com/q/Chiropractors-965/2009/2/brace-sleep-1.htm

If you need to use a 'harness', for SHORT term use, I would not be against it.

For Chronic/ permanent usage,?,,,?,, I would suggest changing your singing style first.

I hope this helps.

If you need further information, do not hesitate to re-contact me here at AllExperts.com

Thanks for the question,

Dr. Victor Dolan, DC
http://drvictordolan.chiroweb.com        (email newsletter)