Neck manipulations

Nurses General Nursing

Published

I'm going to a chiropractor tomorrow. I have a pinched nerve. I'm very uncomfortable with the idea of neck manipulations. Do I have a choice to refuse a neck manipulation? Or would it be completely useless to go if I don't have one? I am the kind of person who gets talked into things, but I don't want a neck manipulation. Would it be better just to let this pinched nerve heal on it's own? Would massage help? I've been doing heating pad, hot showers, stretching exercises, and massaging the area. Compared to a week ago, the pain has improved.

Specializes in ED, ICU, Education.

They can use an "activator" which is a spring loaded mallot type instrument on your neck instead. If the doc has an issue with not manipulating your neck, then I suggest seeing another one.

Hope you feel better!

Specializes in PICU, Sedation/Radiology, PACU.

You always have the right to refuse all, or part of treatment. I'd discuss your concerns about neck manipulation with the chiropractor up front so you don't have to worry about telling him "no" in the moment.

I can't really comment on how you should treat your pinched nerve, as I think that would be medical advice.

Good luck to you.

Specializes in Cardiac nursing.

can you get a 2nd opinion?

Specializes in Med/Surg, DSU, Ortho, Onc, Psych.

You can refuse. The chiro can also do deep tissue massage (DTM) instead, like my physio did with my neck after my MVA. But the chiro I saw was brilliant - he could manipulate you so that I hardly felt any pain at all. I think it's worth trying once, but do ask re the DTM.

You might have to try diff chiropractors to see what diff methods they use.

Great to hear ur feeling better, let us know how the chiro goes! I will be thinking of you :)

Specializes in Acute Care Cardiac, Education, Prof Practice.

Sorry, per the TOS we can't offer medical advice on this board. I would suggest contacting your PCP/neurologist.

In reference to the "right to refuse" question, you always have the right to refuse something you are not comfortable with.

Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Tait is correct.

Take care.

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