Why Neck Care Matters, A Case of Arm Numbness Improved Without Surgery

Approximately 95% of my patients experience some degree of neck pain, often accompanied by numbness in the arms and fingers, primarily due to cervical straightening (straight neck).

One of my patients, a 63-year-old male, presented to my clinic with numbness (paresthesia) in his left arm. Upon examination, I noted that he had a straightened cervical spine (cervical alordosis), which is a common contributing factor. After three treatment sessions, I ordered an X-ray, which revealed not only a straight neck but also decreased cervical joint space at C4–C6 with the presence of bone spurs.

The patient reported about 80% improvement in symptoms, with significantly reduced numbness. I advised him on the importance of proper neck management, as his condition could have otherwise progressed to the point of requiring surgery.

This case serves as an important reminder, especially for the younger generation who spend prolonged hours sitting in front of computers: before symptoms such as numbness or tingling develop, it is advisable to visit a chiropractic clinic for preventive care.