Neck pain is estimated to affect approximately 30–50% of the adult population in the United States each year, making it second only to low back pain as a primary reason patients seek chiropractic care. The goal of chiropractic care for neck pain is to help restore normal joint motion and function in the cervical spine, a process that is often a collaborative effort between care delivered during office visits and self-care performed by the patient between visits.

During office visits, neck pain patients are commonly treated with manual therapies as a primary intervention. High-velocity, low-amplitude spinal manipulation—sometimes accompanied by an audible pop or crack—is the technique most commonly associated with chiropractic care. Chiropractors are also trained in lower-force approaches, including mobilization techniques and soft tissue therapies. Treatment plans may involve more than one type of manual therapy depending on the tissues involved, patient presentation, and clinician judgment.

In-office care may also include cervical traction, particularly when nerve irritation is suspected to be contributing to symptoms. To assist with short-term symptom relief, patients may receive adjunctive therapies such as electrical stimulation (e.g., TENS), therapeutic ultrasound, low-level laser therapy, or heat or cold therapy. In some practices, massage therapy provided by an on-site massage therapist may also be incorporated.

Between visits, patients are encouraged to take an active role in their recovery. Continuing to pursue normal activities within pain tolerance helps prevent muscle deconditioning (which can increase the risk of chronic pain) and supports joint health by promoting nutrient exchange through movement. When muscle weakness or imbalance is identified—which is common in neck pain—patients may be instructed in specific exercises to perform regularly as time allows. Additional guidance may include recommendations for sleeping positions, pillow selection, and temporary work or activity modifications to support recovery. Anti-inflammatory strategies, including dietary modifications and selected supplements, may also be discussed when appropriate.

Once pain and functional limitations reach maximal improvement, patients are typically released from active care. Some may be advised to schedule wellness or maintenance visits on an as-needed or periodic basis, along with continuing neck-healthy habits in daily life. Together, these strategies may help reduce the likelihood of future episodes or allow a subsequent neck pain episode to be addressed earlier before it interferes with normal activities or quality of life.