Neck Pain

What is neck pain?

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.

What are some common causes of neck pain?

Common causes of neck pain include:

• Muscle tension
• Fractures
• Strains and sprains
• Injuries
• Poor posture
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Osteoarthritis
• Spinal stenosis
• Fibromyalgia
• Congenital abnormalities
• Infections
• Tumors
• Sciatica
• Workplace injuries

A herniated cervical disc in your upper spine can also cause neck pain.

When should I see an orthopedic specialist about 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.

How is neck pain diagnosed?

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.

How is neck pain treated?

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:

• Interventional pain blocks
• Ultrasound-guided injections
• Botox® therapy
• Neuromodulation treatments
• Chronic neck pain management without using addictive opioid drugs
• Minimally invasive neck surgery
• Spine surgery
  
  

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.