Acupuncture. A meta-analysis of the results of ten controlled clinical trials indicates that acupuncture relieves the chronic pain cou⁸more effectively than a placebo treatment. The beneficial effects of acupuncture have mainly been observed in the short term. It is therefore not known whether these effects persist over time. In addition, according to the authors of the meta-analysis, the methodological quality of the studies is rather low.

 Chiropractic. Numerous studies on the effects of cervical manipulation have been published. Mobilization (gentle movement) and cervical manipulations would reduce pain and functional disability⁹. However, according to the authors of scientific literature reviews, the lack of quality of the studies does not allow us to conclude with certainty the effectiveness of chiropractic in the treatment of pain cervical^10-13 . Note that the chiropractic approach includes advice on ergonomics and posture, and exercises to be practiced regularly to prevent and treat the problem.

 Osteopathy . Some studies indicate that osteopathy relieves acute or chronic pain of various origins^14-21 . For example, a randomized clinical trial, conducted on 58 patients with neck pain for less than three weeks, shows that this approach could be as effective as an analgesic known to treat acute musculoskeletal pain.²⁰. Other studies indicate that osteopathy can relieve headaches²¹, and neck and back pain¹⁶. However, more rigorous and larger studies will have to be carried out to validate these results.

 Massage Therapy. Studies to date do not support a conclusion to the effectiveness of massage therapy in relieving chronic neck pain.^22,23.

 Arnica (Arnica montana). The German Commission E has approved the external use of arnica in the treatment of muscle and joint disorders, among others. ESCOP also recognizes that arnica effectively relieves pain caused by a sprain or rheumatism.

Dosage

Consult our Arnica file.

 Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens). The German Commission E approves the use of devil’s claw root, internally, in the treatment of degenerative disorders of the locomotor system (skeleton, muscles and joints). ESCOP also recognizes its effectiveness in the treatment of pain accompanying osteoarthritis. Several clinical trials indicate that extracts of this plant relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis and back pain (see the Devil’s Claw fact sheet). However, no studies have been conducted in subjects with neck pain. Devil’s claw is believed to reduce the production of substances involved in inflammation.

Dosage

Take 3 g to 6 g per day of Devil’s Claw root powder tablets or capsules, with food. We can also consume devil’s claw as a standardized extract: then take 600 mg to 1 mg of extract per day, while eating.

Remarks

– Devil’s claw is mostly found in the form of root powder capsules or tablets, usually standardized to 3% gluco-iridoids, or 1,2% to 2% harpagoside.

– It is recommended to follow this treatment for at least two or three months in order to take full advantage of its effects.

 Peppermint essential oil (Mentha x piperita). Commission E, the World Health Organization and ESCOP recognize that peppermint essential oil has several therapeutic effects. Taken externally, it helps relieve muscle pain, neuralgia (located along a nerve) or rheumatism.

Dosage

Rub the affected part with one of the following preparations:

– 2 or 3 drops of essential oil, pure or diluted in vegetable oil;

– cream, oil or ointment containing 5% to 20% essential oil;

– tincture containing 5% to 10% essential oil.

Repeat as needed.

 St. John’s Wort Oil (Hypericum perforatum). Commission E recognizes the effectiveness of St. John’s Wort oil, when used externally, in the treatment of muscle pain. The benefits of this traditional use, however, have not been confirmed by scientific studies.

Dosage

Use store-bought St. John’s Wort oil or macerate St. John’s Wort flowers in vegetable oil (see our St. John’s Wort sheet in the Medicinal Herbarium section).

 White willow (Salix alba). The bark of the white willow contains salicin, the molecule that is at the origin of acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin®). It has analgesic (which reduce or eliminate pain) and anti-inflammatory properties. Commission E and ESCOP recognize the effectiveness of willow bark in the internal relief of neck pain caused by osteoarthritis or rheumatic disease.

Dosage

Consult our White Willow file.

 Somatic education. Somatic education brings together several approaches aimed at ensuring greater body awareness and greater ease of movement. Some associations recommend it to relieve chronic pain: indeed, in practice, this approach has physical and psychological benefits.²⁵. Somatic education can also be used preventively. It helps in particular to have a better posture and facilitates breathing. Holistic gymnastics of the D^re Ehrenfried, the Alexander Technique and the Feldenkrais are some of the approaches to somatic education. To find out more, see our Somatic Education sheet.

 Relaxation and relaxation. Deep breathing or progressive relaxation go a long way in releasing muscle tension²⁴. See our Relaxation Response sheet.

Also consult our Osteoarthritis file and our file on chronic pain: When we have pain all the time …