Neck pain is a widespread issue in the United States, affecting countless individuals and impacting their daily lives. Ongoing neck pain and stiffness can significantly hinder your ability to work, enjoy leisure activities, or even get a good night’s sleep.

At The Orthopaedic & Pain Practice, we understand the complexities of neck pain and offer a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. Maybe you’re wondering what to do next? Let’s explore the common causes, available treatments, and how a neck pain treatment doctor can help you get back to feeling your best!

Understanding Neck Pain

Neck pain can arise from various factors, with the most common being abnormalities in soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis can also contribute to neck pain. Some common causes and symptoms include:

• Muscle strains: Often due to poor posture or overuse.
• Cervical degeneration (arthritis)
• Herniated cervical discs: Which can lead to nerve or spinal cord compression.
• Trauma: Injuries from sports or car accidents.
• Headaches
• Tightness/spasms
• Limited range of motion/stiffness
• Poor posture

It’s important to identify the underlying cause of your neck pain to determine the most effective treatment strategy.

When Should You See a Neck Pain Treatment Doctor?

While minor neck pain often resolves on its own, it’s essential to seek professional help if your pain persists or is accompanied by certain symptoms. Consider consulting a spine specialist if:

• Neck pain lasts for several weeks or longer.
• You experience neck pain after a traumatic injury.
• You have red-flag symptoms like fever or muscle weakness.

Don’t let neck pain control your life!

What to Expect During Your Consultation

During your visit with a neck pain treatment doctor, you can expect a thorough evaluation to determine the source of your pain. This typically includes:

• Medical history review: Questions about previous injuries, medical conditions, and the frequency/intensity of your pain.
• Physical examination: Assessment of your range of motion, neck tenderness, and nerve/muscle function.
• Diagnostic tests: X-rays to evaluate bones and discs; MRI to examine the spinal cord, discs, and ligaments.

Treatment Options for Neck Pain

A skilled neck pain treatment doctor can create a personalized treatment strategy tailored to your specific condition. Here are some effective treatments to consider:

• Physical therapy: A program that may include therapeutic massage, ultrasound treatments, and exercises to improve flexibility, range of motion, and strength in your neck and shoulders.
• Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen can help alleviate symptoms. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication.
• Injections:
  • Epidural steroid injections can relieve pain in the neck, shoulders, and arms caused by compressed nerves.
  • Facet joint injections reduce inflammation and control pain in the facet joints, which connect the bones in your spine.
• Radiofrequency ablation: This minimally invasive procedure uses heat to disrupt nerve signals and provide longer-term pain relief.
• Spinal cord stimulation: A clinically proven, drug-free treatment that uses electrical currents to block painful nerve signals.
• Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery may be an option to relieve nerve root pain or spinal cord compression.

The Orthopaedic & Pain Practice: Your Partner in Neck Pain Relief

At The Orthopaedic & Pain Practice, we are committed to helping you find lasting relief from neck pain! Our experienced team offers a range of advanced diagnostic and treatment options to address the underlying cause of your pain and restore your quality of life.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a pain-free future, contact us today!