Neck pain can hit you at any time, making even simple activities like driving nearly impossible. If you regularly experience neck pain and it doesn’t respond to at-home treatments, see an orthopedic specialist right away. At the Center for Orthopaedics, the experienced orthopedic surgeons provide comprehensive care for neck pain. Call the office today or go online to make an appointment at the practice in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Neck pain is any stiffness, aching, or general discomfort that affects your cervical spine –– the seven vertebrae between your head and shoulders. It’s usually caused by a strain or sprain, but it can also point to a more serious underlying problem.
The experienced neck and back doctors At the Center for Orthopaedics accurately diagnose and treat neck pain. Using minimally invasive procedures and cutting-edge techniques, they can help you feel better.
Common causes of neck pain include:
A herniated cervical disc in your upper spine can also cause neck pain.
Most cases of neck pain respond to at-home treatments like ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medication. Make an appointment at the Center for Orthopaedics if your symptoms last for more than a week or they get worse. This is especially necessary if the pain comes with a fever, a headache, or trouble swallowing and breathing.
Your Center for Orthopaedics provider reviews your medical history and asks you about your symptoms to diagnose neck pain. They complete a thorough neck exam. Your provider gently presses on your neck to pinpoint areas of swelling or sensitivity. They also have you turn your head from side to side to test your range of motion.
If these steps don’t provide enough information to make a diagnosis, your provider will also take X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI. These diagnostic imaging procedures help pinpoint problems like fractures or a herniated cervical disc. You might also benefit from electromyography (EMG). EMG measures the electrical response in a muscle or a group of muscles.
At the Center for Orthopaedics, the team offers several treatments for neck pain. They initially recommend conservative, non-invasive care like physical medicine and rehabilitation, athletic training, or bone health care.
If your neck pain gets worse, more invasive treatment will be necessary, including:
The team’s goal is to provide you with the highest level of professional and personalized care.
To receive treatment for neck pain, make an appointment today at the Center for Orthopaedics. Call the office or use the online scheduling tool.
