There are 7 bones in the neck with nerves exiting between each of them. When Dr. Shortell examines a patient he separates the neck into 3 parts: upper, middle and lower sections. Individuals suffering with headaches and neck pain often have one or more of the reasons listed below.

Patients with upper neck problems most commonly have headaches in the front or back of the head (often migraines) and will often feel like their head is too heavy and it worsens as the day goes on. Usually they just want to lay down to get the weight of their head off their neck.

Problems with the nerves in the upper neck can also cause or aggravate vertigo, sinus problems, and dry or feverish eyes.

Patients with middle neck problems most often are bothered by the neck muscles that stem to the shoulders called the trapezius (traps). This will often cause tension headaches. These people will often say that mental stress or anxiety increase pain at this area of the neck, which can lead to shoulder pain and tightness.

Problems with nerves in the middle neck can also cause or aggravate TMJ problems, ear pain , ear blockage and tinnitus/ringing in the ears.

Patients with lower neck problems will often have pain that refers to the upper back/scapular (wing bone) area and sometimes down the arms/hands. People with this problem will often say that laying their head down on the pillow at night is uncomfortable causing them to toss and turn and not have a restful night of sleep. They often blame their pillow for their problem and have tried many types of pillows with no lasting solution.

Problems with the nerves in the lower neck can cause or aggravate a persistent dry or hoarse throat causing them to clear their throat often.

Dr. Shortell looks at all aspects of your spine and treats you as a whole. Some patients may only need treatment on one area while others may need treatment on several. This is why Dr. Shortell does a complete evaluation and takes x-rays (if needed) in his office. He will come up with a treatment plan and explain everything to you before he starts treatment.

If you are looking for a natural, non-drug, non-injection, non-surgical method to relieve your problems, Dr. Robert Shortell DC at the Cromwell Chiropractic Center can help you. He has been a Chiropractic Physician for 30 years and has helped thousands of people in our community.

Why choose Cromwell Chiropractic Center?

• Dr. Shortell has been in practice in Cromwell since 1997, so he brings plenty of experience to help you or a loved one with your health concerns.

• The office is conveniently located on the Cromwell/Middletown line on route 3 (Shunpike Road) The office is located behind Hartford Healthcare Urgent Care and across the street from Stop and Shop and next to McDonalds.

• We are in-network providers for most insurance companies including Aetna, Anthem BC/BS, United Healthcare and Medicare.

• There are many reviews and testimonials from patients like you who were suffering but after seeing Dr. Shortell have improved their health.

Dr. Robert Shortell DC | Cromwell Chiropractic Center | 28 Shunpike Road, Cromwell | 860-635-4455 |