What home remedies are safe and effective for neck pain?

Many people will try home remedies for pain before making an appointment; some are more effective than others. Below are some safe and effective treatments you can try to get some relief while you wait for your appointment. Hot Epsom Salt Bath – Magnesium (found in Epsom salts) is a mineral the body can absorb through the skin that helps with soreness and aids in the relaxation of the muscles. Go ahead and grab a soaker making sure to use a good full cup or more of Epsom salts. Cold Pack – When your neck is sore and inflamed, it’s hot already. Using a cold pack for 20 minutes followed by a 40 minutes break is a good idea. My personal favorite is soaking in a hot bath with Epsom salts while applying an ice pack. You get the best of both worlds. Therapy Ball for Trigger Points – I like to use a lacrosse ball, but a tennis ball will work in a pinch. Target those tight, sore muscles and apply gentle pressure for 10-20 seconds. You should always listen to your body and don’t get too aggressive. If any home remedy is painful, stop and let your chiropractor know when you see them. Neck Stretches – Gentle neck stretches can feel good, however, don’t use any jerking or quick movements. A slow and sustained stretch is the best option. Topical Analgesics – Topicals can offer temporary pain relief and can be used in conjunction with stretching or therapy balls. However, it’s important to note that it is temporary relief, and you still need to have it looked at by your chiropractor to prevent it from becoming a chronic problem.

What kind of pillow should I use?

On average, people spend about one-third of their lives sleeping, so discussing proper sleep and what pillow to use is undoubtedly appropriate. Eight hours of sleeping in a bad position can cause neck pain when you wake up. There are hundreds of pillow options, and many proclaim themselves as “neck pillows,” but there is no one-size-fits-all approach or recommendation here. Please watch the video below for my best sleep tips and what pillows to use.

What are some nutritional recommendations for supporting healing from neck pain?

What we put into our bodies is so very important for helping or hindering healing. While this is just the tip of the iceberg, my best recommendations are these: Eat Whole Foods – Stick to minimally processed fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Any grains you consume should be in their whole forms, such as rice, millet, barley, and oats. Steer clear of processed foods that are altered by man or that come in a package. Consume sugar in minimal amounts. Stay Hydrated – Muscles cause more problems when they are not adequately hydrated. Adding a little sea salt and lemon to your water will help your cells to stay more hydrated than water alone by adding electrolytes. Anti-inflammatory Healthy Fats – Avocados, fish and fish oils, ghee, and coconut oil are all great options. Consuming two thumbs of healthy fats with your vegetables was shown to have better nutrient absorption than eating veggies alone. You must supplement if you can’t or won’t consume these healthy fats.

Are chiropractors covered by insurance?

We accept most health insurance plans, and we are in network with Blue Cross, United Healthcare, and Medicare. We offer payment plans for those who have little or no insurance coverage. Many plans DO include chiropractic benefits with the policy. Ask our staff to do a complimentary benefits check for you when you come in for your first visit.

Is it okay to pop my own neck?

If your neck pops through stretching or normal range of motion, this is not a concern. However, we do not recommend popping your own neck.

When should I see a chiropractor for neck pain?

Because so many cases of neck pain turn chronic, we don’t recommend waiting more than 24-48 hours to see your chiropractor when neck pain happens. Feel free to use some of the home remedies shared above until your appointment, and be sure to listen to your body.

Spinal Decompression Therapy in Columbia, MO

Advanced, Non-Surgical Relief for Disc, Nerve, and Chronic Back Pain

If you’re searching for spinal decompression therapy in Columbia, MO, you’re likely dealing with stubborn back pain, sciatica, disc issues, or nerve symptoms that just won’t go away. At Reclaim Chiropractic, we offer non-surgical spinal decompression therapy as an advanced, research-backed solution for people who want real healing—not temporary relief.

This is not aggressive traction or a “one-size-fits-all” machine session. Our decompression care is precise, customized, and integrated into a full corrective care plan designed to help your body heal from the inside out.

What Is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Spinal decompression therapy is a gentle, computerized treatment that slowly stretches and releases the spine in a controlled way. This creates negative pressure inside the spinal discs, which can:

Reduce pressure on compressed nerves
Help bulging or herniated discs retract
Improve circulation, hydration, and nutrient flow to damaged discs
Decrease inflammation and muscle guarding
Support long-term spinal stability and healing

Unlike surgery or injections, decompression therapy is non-invasive, drug-free, and restorative—ideal for patients who want to avoid more extreme interventions.

How Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Works

During a decompression session:

You lie comfortably on a specialized decompression table
A computer-controlled system applies gentle, rhythmic traction
The spine alternates between stretch and relaxation phases
Targeted spinal levels receive precise decompression

This process allows discs to rehydrate and repair over time—something that standard chiropractic adjustments or massage alone cannot fully achieve for disc injuries.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Spinal Decompression

Conditions Spinal Decompression Therapy Can Help

We commonly recommend spinal decompression for patients with:

Herniated discs
Bulging discs
Degenerative disc disease
Sciatica
Pinched nerves
Chronic low back pain
Neck pain with radiating arm symptoms
Postural disc compression
Disc-related headaches
Failed back pain (when surgery didn’t resolve symptoms)

Many of our patients come to us after trying physical therapy, injections, or “traditional” chiropractic care with limited success.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Spinal Decompression?

Spinal decompression therapy is ideal for:

Adults with disc-related pain confirmed by exam or imaging
Active individuals who want to return to exercise or lifting safely
Busy professionals who sit or drive for long hours
Women experiencing core, pelvic, or hormonal-related spinal stress
Patients seeking natural alternatives to surgery or pain meds

If you’ve been told “you’ll just have to live with it,” decompression may be the missing piece.

What Results Can You Expect?

Most patients notice:

Reduced pain and nerve symptoms
Improved mobility and posture
Better tolerance for sitting, standing, or activity
Increased confidence in movement
A sense that their body is finally healing—not just coping

Results vary based on condition severity, consistency of care, and lifestyle factors—but when decompression is done correctly, outcomes can be life-changing.

How Our Spinal Decompression Plan Works

1. Assessment

We start with a comprehensive exam to evaluate your range of pain and potential contributing factors. We also review your history of treatments and previous symptom management.

2. Customized Treatment Plan

We develop a precise, computer-controlled decompression protocol tailored to your specific disc or nerve condition. Rather than a “one-size-fits-all” approach, we integrate targeted stretching and relaxation phases to maximize your body’s natural healing response.

3. Integrated Corrective Care

We combine decompression sessions with holistic support, including chiropractic adjustments, core stabilization, and lifestyle guidance. This comprehensive approach ensures we aren’t just chasing symptoms, but building long-term spinal stability and health.

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  I fell on the ice. They got me in right away and also scheduled me for a follow up the next day. Now, I hit that ground hard when I fell, but I am still amazed at the speed and quality of my recovery after their careful care, evaluation and guidance.
  
 
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  Love getting adjusted and Dr Squires is amazing! All the doctors are great. I highly recommend coming here.
  
 
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  Love this place. They keep me healthy and pain-free.
  
 
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  I have been going to Family First Chiropractic for approximately 12 years. They have helped me through numerous issues and I will continue to use them for my chiropractic care.
  
 
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   Maria Trevor 
 
 
 
  I have been seeing Dr.Kelli for 11 years. Great help in alleviating pain and setting my back and neck straight. I see her monthly as part of my wellness routine, but I started with her due to back pain in late pregnancy. She has been absolutely wonderful over all these years!
  
 
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  My first appointment as a patient was amazing! Doctors are very thorough and strive to make everyone as comfortable and informed as possible. I’ve enjoyed my time working with these people.

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Schedule a Spinal Decompression Consultation in Columbia, MO

If you’re ready to explore non-surgical spinal decompression therapy and find out whether it’s right for you, our team is here to help.

Schedule a consultation at Reclaim Chiropractic today and take the next step toward lasting relief, restored function, and a stronger spine.

Healing is possible. Your spine was designed to recover—with the right support.

Why Choose Spinal Decompression at Reclaim Chiropractic?

Not all decompression programs are created equal. At Reclaim Chiropractic, decompression is never offered in isolation.

Your care may include:

Chiropractic adjustments to restore joint motion
Laser therapy to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing
Core stabilization and pelvic support strategies
Postural correction and lifestyle guidance
Nutritional support for disc and tissue repair

Your doctor will recommend an appropriate treatment plan to not only help you feel better but to correct the problem too. If necessary, we will co-manage with other providers to get you the best possible outcome.

Our approach is especially effective for patients who want root-cause healing, not endless symptom chasing.