Neck pain
Neck pain is one of the three most frequently reported complaints of the musculoskeletal system. Twenty-six to 71% of the adult population can recall experiencing an episode of neck pain or stiffness in their lifetime. Neck pain is usually a benign and self-limited condition, but can be disabling to varying degrees. As such, it has a large impact on healthcare expenditure, due to visits to healthcare professionals, sick leave, disability, and the related loss of productivity.
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stimulating nerves located in muscles and other tissues, which leads to the release of endorphins and other neurohumoral factors, and changes the processing of pain in the brain and spinal cord.
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reducing inflammation, by promoting the release of vascular and immunomodulatory factors.
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improving muscle stiffness and joint mobility by increasing local microcirculation (Komori 2009), which aids the dispersal of swelling.