Waking Up with Neck & Back Pain

Roger Ward • January 12, 2018

Some of the most common complaints of chiropractic patients have to do with sudden onset neck and back pain when waking up, often suggesting that the patient slept wrong. Sudden morning neck pain in adults is called acquired torticollis and is a common complaint from patients who went to bed fine but woke up with a very sore and stiff neck. If you wake up with neck pain make an appointment with a chiropractor to resolve the issue. A chiropractor can help to quickly alleviate the issue and return the body to its healthy self without the need of expensive surgery or medications. It isn’t just morning neck pain that a chiropractor can help resolve, they can treat sudden back, limb and head pain as well.

So what causes people to wake up in pain? Commonly it is because of an awkward sleeping position that leaves your neck or back twisted. However other causes can include a sudden change in temperature due to sleeping with the window open, which can lead to muscles stiffening and cramping, or extreme activity the day before.

How does a chiropractor treat sudden morning pain?

A chiropractor will evaluate the patient to determine the root cause of the pain and determine the best way to resolve it. If the pain is too great for the patient to get into the correct position for an appropriate adjustment to be made then some physiotherapy may be performed to better prepare the patient.

Once the patient is ready for the determined adjustment it will be made by the chiropractor. The patient will often experience a sharp pin-like sensation quickly followed by instant relief. However it may take several adjustment appointments in order to get the muscles and nerves to return to a natural state.

It is important to have a diagnostic appointment scheduled with a chiropractor as soon as you notice the pain to ensure a quick recovery. If you have woken up with sudden morning pain and would like to see a chiropractor in Kirkland that can relieve your symptoms, reach out to Better Back and Body. Our team will provide you with expert care that is sure to make you feel like yourself once again. Give us a call at 425-629-0326 to request more information or to schedule an appointment with a highly qualified Eastside chiropractor.

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4 Basic Ways to Help Prevent Back Pain

By Better Back and Body • September 23, 2026

While some back problems are unavoidable, developing healthy habits can help reduce unnecessary strain and support better spinal health. Small adjustments to your daily routine can make a meaningful difference over time. Here’s a look at four basic ways to help prevent back pain and keep your back feeling its best. Maintain Good Posture Poor posture can place unnecessary stress on the muscles, joints, and other structures supporting your spine. When sitting, avoid slouching for extended periods. If you work at a desk, position your computer screen at a comfortable height and keep your shoulders relaxed. When standing, try to distribute your weight evenly rather than consistently leaning to one side. Stay Physically Active Regular physical activity can help keep the muscles that support your back strong and flexible. Walking, swimming, stretching, and other low-impact activities can be good ways to stay active. Avoid remaining in the same position for hours at a time. Getting up periodically and moving around can help prevent stiffness and reduce the effects of prolonged sitting. Lift Objects Carefully Improper lifting is a common source of back strain. Before lifting something heavy, assess whether you can safely handle it or whether you need assistance. When lifting, bend at your knees and use your legs rather than relying on your lower back. Keep the object close to your body and avoid twisting while carrying it. Using proper technique can reduce unnecessary stress on your spine. Maintain a Healthy Weight Carrying excess weight can place additional stress on the structures that support your spine. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity may help reduce strain on your back. Even small, sustainable lifestyle changes can contribute to better overall physical health and make everyday movement more comfortable. Chiropractor in Kirkland, WA Even if you’re cautious, you might still develop back pain, in which case it can be worth seeing an experienced chiropractor. For a chiropractor in Kirkland and the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at 425-629-0326 . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an evaluation!

What is causing my back pain? A look at some of the most common causes

By Better Back and Body • August 15, 2026

Back pain is one of the most common physical complaints and can affect people of all ages and lifestyles. It can range from mild discomfort that improves with rest to persistent pain that interferes with everyday activities. Because the back supports nearly every movement your body makes, many different factors can contribute to soreness, stiffness, or injury. Understanding the common causes of back pain can help you take steps to protect your spine, improve your habits, and seek appropriate care when needed. At Better Back & Body, our team can help with addressing your back pain at our chiropractor’s office in Kirkland, WA. Here are four common reasons people experience back pain. Poor Posture and Body Mechanics One of the most common causes of back pain is poor posture. Spending long periods sitting at a desk, looking down at electronic devices, or standing with improper alignment can place extra strain on the muscles and structures of the back. Poor lifting techniques, such as bending at the waist instead of using your legs, can also increase the risk of injury. Maintaining proper posture and practicing safe movement habits can reduce unnecessary stress on your spine. Muscle Strains and Sprains Back pain often develops after muscles, ligaments, or other soft tissues become overstretched or injured. Lifting heavy objects, sudden movements, intense physical activity, and twisting motions can cause strains and sprains in the back. These injuries may result in soreness, stiffness, and limited mobility. Allowing time for recovery and using proper techniques during physical activities can help prevent many common back injuries. Lack of Physical Activity A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to back pain by weakening the muscles that support the spine. When core and back muscles are not strong enough to provide proper support, everyday movements can place additional strain on the spine and surrounding tissues. Regular exercise, stretching, and activities that strengthen supporting muscles can improve back health. Degenerative Changes and Aging As people get older, natural wear and tear can affect the spine. Conditions such as arthritis and disc degeneration may develop over time and contribute to chronic back discomfort. These changes can reduce flexibility and cause inflammation. While age-related changes can’t always be prevented, there are still effective ways to help manage the symptoms. Chiropractor in Kirkland, WA Seeing a chiropractor can help you attain relief from your back pain. For an experienced chiropractor in Kirkland and the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at 425-629-0326 . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an evaluation!

4 Symptoms that Suggest You Could Benefit from Seeing a Chiropractor

By Better Back and Body • July 17, 2026

Many people associate chiropractic care with back pain, but chiropractors can help address a wide variety of musculoskeletal issues that affect daily comfort and mobility. Whether symptoms develop gradually from poor posture or suddenly after an injury, chiropractic treatment may help improve function and reduce discomfort. If you're experiencing persistent aches, stiffness, or movement limitations, it may be time to consider a professional evaluation. At Better Back and Body, we provide expert chiropractic care in the greater Kirkland, WA area. Here are four signs that you could benefit from seeing a chiropractor. Persistent Back or Neck Pain Ongoing back or neck pain is one of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care. Discomfort can result from poor posture, repetitive movements, long hours at a desk, or physical strain. If pain continues despite rest or over-the-counter remedies, a chiropractor may be able to identify underlying alignment or mobility issues contributing to the problem. Frequent Headaches Tension headaches are often linked to muscle tightness and joint dysfunction in the neck and upper back. Poor posture, stress, and prolonged screen time can all contribute to headache symptoms. Chiropractic adjustments and other treatments may help reduce tension . Limited Range of Motion If you find it difficult to turn your head, bend comfortably, or move certain joints through their full range of motion, it could indicate musculoskeletal restrictions. Joint stiffness and reduced mobility can affect daily activities and overall quality of life. Chiropractic care often focuses on restoring proper movement and flexibility. Discomfort After an Accident or Injury Even minor car accidents, sports injuries, or slips and falls can create lingering pain and stiffness. Sometimes symptoms do not appear immediately after an injury. If you’re experiencing discomfort, reduced mobility, or soreness following an accident, a chiropractor can evaluate your condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Chiropractor in Kirkland, WA For an experienced chiropractor in Kirkland, WA and the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at 425-629-0326 . Feel free to give us a call to schedule a chiropractic evaluation in greater Kirkland, WA!