Neck Pain Chiropractor Chicago, IL

Advanced Neck Pain Relief in Northwest Chicago – Dr. Michael Gontarek, DC, MSc, DACBN

When chronic neck pain disrupts your daily life, professional work, or sleep quality, you need specialized care from a chiropractor who understands the complex anatomy and biomechanics of cervical spine dysfunction. Dr. Michael Gontarek at Principle Performance in Park Ridge provides evidence-based neck pain treatment using advanced McKenzie Method® techniques, serving patients throughout Chicago’s northwest suburbs and the O’Hare corridor.

Location: 542 Busse Hwy, Park Ridge, IL 60068 | Phone: (224) 435-4280

Why Dr. Gontarek is Chicago’s Leading Neck Pain Specialist

Dr. Michael Gontarek brings exceptional qualifications to neck pain treatment that set him apart from other chiropractors in the Chicago area. His unique combination of advanced education, specialized certifications, and published research creates a comprehensive approach to cervical spine care that addresses both immediate symptoms and long-term spinal health.

Advanced McKenzie Method® Cervical Spine Certification: Dr. Gontarek holds specialized McKenzie Institute training in cervical and thoracic spine treatment (MDT B certification), representing the gold standard in mechanical diagnosis and therapy for neck conditions. This advanced training enables precise diagnosis of the mechanical causes of neck pain and development of targeted treatment protocols.

Dual Doctorate Expertise: With both a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College and a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine from University of Western States, Dr. Gontarek addresses neck pain from multiple angles, including biomechanical dysfunction, inflammatory processes, and nutritional factors that affect tissue healing.

Published Research Authority: As a published author in peer-reviewed journals on topics including inflammation reduction and tissue healing optimization, Dr. Gontarek applies cutting-edge research to clinical practice, ensuring patients receive the most effective, evidence-based treatments available.

Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Neck pain affects millions of Americans annually, with studies showing that up to 70% of adults experience significant neck discomfort at some point in their lives. The cervical spine’s complex structure—consisting of seven vertebrae, multiple muscle groups, ligaments, and nerve pathways—makes it particularly susceptible to various types of dysfunction.

Common Causes of Neck Pain in Chicago Patients

Postural Dysfunction: Extended computer work, smartphone use, and desk-based occupations create forward head posture, placing excessive strain on cervical muscles and joints. This condition, often called “tech neck,” has become increasingly prevalent in Chicago’s professional workforce.

Mechanical Joint Dysfunction: Restricted movement in cervical facet joints often results from poor sleeping positions, sudden movements, or gradual wear patterns. McKenzie Method® assessment techniques excel at identifying these mechanical restrictions and developing specific corrective strategies.

Muscle Strain and Trigger Points: Overuse, stress, or sudden movements can create painful muscle knots and trigger points in the neck and shoulder region. These areas often refer pain to the head, causing tension headaches and upper back discomfort.

Disc-Related Issues: Cervical disc problems, including herniation or degeneration, can cause localized neck pain and may radiate symptoms into the arms and hands. Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment planning.

Whiplash and Trauma: Auto accidents, sports injuries, or falls can create complex cervical spine injuries involving multiple tissues. These conditions often require specialized treatment approaches and longer recovery periods.

Recognizing Neck Pain Symptoms

Neck pain presentations vary significantly depending on the underlying cause and affected structures. Understanding these symptom patterns helps patients recognize when professional treatment is necessary.

Primary Neck Symptoms:

• Localized pain and stiffness in the cervical region
• Reduced range of motion in neck turning, bending, or extension
• Muscle spasm and tension in neck and shoulder areas
• Sharp, shooting pains with certain movements
• Chronic aching or burning sensations

Associated Symptoms:

• Headaches, particularly tension-type headaches originating from the neck
• Shoulder blade pain and upper back tension
• Arm or hand numbness, tingling, or weakness
• Dizziness or balance problems related to cervical dysfunction
• Sleep disturbances due to positional discomfort

Neck Pain When Sitting Up: A Common but Overlooked Problem

Many patients experience specific neck pain when transitioning from lying down to sitting up, a symptom that often indicates particular types of cervical spine dysfunction. This “neck pain sit up” phenomenon can significantly impact daily activities and sleep quality, yet it’s frequently misunderstood by both patients and healthcare providers.

Understanding Sit-Up Neck Pain Mechanics

When you sit up from a lying position, your cervical spine must rapidly adjust to support your head’s weight against gravity while coordinating with core muscles and thoracic spine movement. This complex movement pattern can reveal underlying mechanical problems that may not be apparent during other activities.

Postural Transition Stress: The movement from horizontal to vertical positioning places immediate load on cervical muscles and joints. If these structures are already compromised by dysfunction, inflammation, or weakness, the transition can trigger significant pain.

Deep Neck Flexor Weakness: The deep neck flexor muscles, responsible for supporting the head’s weight and maintaining proper cervical curve, often become weak due to prolonged forward head posture. When these muscles fail to activate properly during sit-up movements, superficial neck muscles compensate, creating pain and tension.

Cervical Facet Joint Restrictions: Mechanical restrictions in the small joints of the cervical spine can become particularly problematic during the sit-up movement, as these joints must glide smoothly to allow proper neck positioning during the postural change.

Treatment Strategies for Sit-Up Neck Pain

Dr. Gontarek’s approach to treating neck pain during sitting up movements involves identifying the specific mechanical dysfunction causing the problem and developing targeted interventions to restore normal movement patterns.

McKenzie Method® Movement Analysis: Using systematic movement testing, Dr. Gontarek identifies which specific directions of movement reduce or eliminate symptoms, allowing for precise treatment targeting and patient-specific exercise prescription.

Deep Neck Flexor Strengthening: Specific exercises designed to reactivate and strengthen the deep neck flexor muscles help restore proper movement patterns and reduce compensation from superficial neck muscles.

Postural Correction Training: Teaching proper techniques for transitioning from lying to sitting positions, combined with overall postural awareness training, helps prevent symptom recurrence and promotes long-term spine health.

Manual Therapy Interventions: Targeted joint mobilization and soft tissue techniques address mechanical restrictions and reduce muscle tension, facilitating improved movement quality during position changes.

Comprehensive Neck Pain Treatment at Principle Performance

Dr. Gontarek’s treatment approach for neck pain combines advanced diagnostic techniques with evidence-based interventions, creating personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s specific needs and goals.

Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

Detailed History and Symptom Analysis: Dr. Gontarek conducts thorough interviews to understand symptom patterns, aggravating and relieving factors, and how neck pain impacts daily activities. This information guides diagnostic testing and treatment planning.

McKenzie Method® Mechanical Assessment: This systematic evaluation involves specific movement testing to identify directional preferences and mechanical causes of symptoms. The assessment helps differentiate between various types of neck dysfunction and determines the most effective treatment approach.

Postural and Movement Analysis: Comprehensive evaluation of sitting, standing, and movement patterns identifies biomechanical factors contributing to neck dysfunction. This analysis often reveals hidden causes of recurring neck problems.

Nutritional and Lifestyle Screening: Dr. Gontarek’s clinical nutrition background allows evaluation of dietary factors that may affect inflammation, tissue healing, and overall spine health. This holistic approach addresses multiple factors influencing recovery.

Evidence-Based Treatment Interventions

McKenzie Method® Directional Exercise: Based on assessment findings, patients learn specific exercises that promote tissue healing and restore normal movement patterns. These exercises are designed to be performed independently, empowering patients in their recovery process.

Manual Therapy Techniques: Targeted spinal manipulation, mobilization, and soft tissue techniques address mechanical restrictions and promote optimal joint function. Dr. Gontarek’s advanced training ensures safe, effective treatment delivery.

Dry Needling for Trigger Points: Advanced trigger point therapy using dry needling techniques provides rapid relief for muscle-related neck pain and helps restore normal muscle function.

Postural Correction and Ergonomic Training: Comprehensive education on proper posture, workstation setup, and daily movement habits helps prevent symptom recurrence and promotes long-term spine health.

Clinical Nutrition Support: When appropriate, targeted nutritional interventions address inflammation, support tissue healing, and optimize overall health to facilitate recovery.

Specific Neck Pain Conditions We Treat

Cervical Disc Herniation

Cervical disc problems can cause severe neck pain and may radiate symptoms into the arms and hands. Dr. Gontarek’s McKenzie Method® training provides specialized techniques for managing disc-related symptoms and promoting healing.

Treatment Approach: Specific directional exercises and positioning strategies help reduce disc pressure and promote symptom centralization. Manual therapy techniques complement exercise interventions to optimize outcomes.

Cervical Facet Joint Syndrome

Mechanical dysfunction in the small joints of the cervical spine often causes localized neck pain and stiffness. These conditions respond well to targeted manual therapy and corrective exercises.

Treatment Focus: Joint mobilization techniques restore normal facet joint movement, while specific exercises maintain mobility and prevent recurrence.

Tension Headaches and Cervicogenic Headaches

Many headaches originate from neck dysfunction, particularly tension in the upper cervical region and suboccipital muscles. Dr. Gontarek’s comprehensive approach addresses both neck symptoms and associated headache patterns.

Integrated Treatment: Combining cervical spine treatment with trigger point therapy and postural correction often provides significant headache relief.

Whiplash and Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries

Complex cervical spine injuries from auto accidents require specialized care to address multiple tissue involvement and prevent chronic pain development.

Comprehensive Care: Dr. Gontarek’s experience with trauma-related neck injuries ensures appropriate treatment progression and comprehensive rehabilitation.

Tech Neck and Postural Dysfunction

The modern epidemic of “tech neck” from prolonged device use creates specific patterns of cervical dysfunction that require targeted intervention.

Modern Solutions: Combining traditional chiropractic care with modern ergonomic solutions and postural retraining addresses the root causes of technology-related neck problems.

Why Choose Principle Performance as Your Neck Pain Chiropractor in Chicago?

Principle Performance maintains a perfect 5-star Google rating with over 70 patient reviews, demonstrating consistent excellence in neck pain treatment and patient care. This track record reflects Dr. Gontarek’s commitment to achieving optimal outcomes for every patient.

Personalized One-on-One Care

Unlike high-volume clinics, Dr. Gontarek provides individualized attention for every patient, ensuring thorough assessment, personalized treatment planning, and ongoing support throughout the recovery process.

Convenient Chicago Location

Located at 542 Busse Hwy in Park Ridge, Principle Performance serves patients throughout northwest Chicago, including Des Plaines, Rosemont, Schiller Park, and the greater O’Hare corridor. The location offers convenient parking and easy access from major highways.

Same-Day Appointments Available

Understanding that neck pain can be debilitating, Dr. Gontarek offers flexible scheduling and same-day appointments when possible, ensuring patients receive timely care when they need it most.

Preventing Future Neck Pain Episodes

Proper workstation ergonomics play a crucial role in preventing neck pain, particularly for Chicago professionals who spend significant time at computers. Dr. Gontarek provides detailed guidance on monitor positioning, chair selection, and keyboard placement to minimize cervical spine stress.

Sleep Position and Pillow Selection

Sleep quality and neck health are closely connected. Dr. Gontarek helps patients optimize their sleep environment, including pillow selection and sleep positioning, to promote spinal alignment and prevent morning neck stiffness.

Exercise and Strengthening Programs

Maintaining cervical spine health requires ongoing attention to posture, flexibility, and strength. Dr. Gontarek designs customized exercise programs that patients can perform at home to maintain the benefits of treatment and prevent future episodes.

Stress Management and Lifestyle Factors

Chronic stress often manifests as neck and shoulder tension. Dr. Gontarek’s comprehensive approach includes stress management strategies and lifestyle modifications that support overall spine health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Pain Treatment

How long does neck pain treatment typically take? Treatment duration varies based on the specific condition, severity, and patient factors. Many patients experience significant improvement within 2-4 weeks of starting treatment, though complex conditions may require longer care periods. Dr. Gontarek provides realistic timelines during the initial consultation.

Is chiropractic treatment safe for neck pain? When performed by properly trained professionals like Dr. Gontarek, chiropractic treatment for neck pain is extremely safe. His advanced McKenzie Method® training and extensive experience ensure safe, effective treatment delivery with minimal risk.

Can you help with chronic neck pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments? Yes, Dr. Gontarek frequently treats patients with chronic neck pain who haven’t found relief with other approaches. His unique combination of McKenzie Method® techniques, manual therapy, and clinical nutrition often provides breakthrough results for persistent conditions.

Do you treat neck pain related to auto accidents? Absolutely. Dr. Gontarek has extensive experience treating whiplash and other motor vehicle accident-related neck injuries. He works with insurance companies and legal representatives as needed to ensure patients receive appropriate care.

What should I expect during my first visit? Your initial appointment includes a comprehensive consultation, detailed examination using McKenzie Method® assessment techniques, and development of a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Gontarek takes time to explain your condition and answer all questions about your care.

Take Action: Schedule Your Neck Pain Consultation Today

Don’t let neck pain control your life. Dr. Michael Gontarek’s advanced training, evidence-based approach, and personalized care provide the comprehensive treatment you need to achieve lasting relief and prevent future episodes.

Call (224) 435-4280 today to schedule your comprehensive neck pain evaluation and discover why patients throughout Chicago choose Principle Performance for their cervical spine care needs.

Why Choose Dr. Gontarek for Your Neck Pain:

• Advanced McKenzie Method® cervical spine certification
• Dual expertise in chiropractic care and clinical nutrition
• Published researcher with evidence-based treatment protocols
• Perfect 5-star rating with over 70 satisfied patients
• Personalized one-on-one care in convenient Chicago location
• Same-day appointments available for urgent needs
• Comprehensive approach addressing root causes, not just symptoms

Contact Information:

• Phone: (224) 435-4280
• Email: support@principleperformancehealth.com
• Address: 542 Busse Hwy, Park Ridge, IL 60068
• Serving: Chicago, Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Rosemont, Schiller Park, Franklin Park, Norridge, Harwood Heights, and the greater O’Hare corridor

Transform your neck pain from a daily struggle into lasting comfort and mobility. Schedule your appointment today and experience the Principle Performance difference.