Neck Pain

What causes neck pain?

Neck pain can be caused by a multitude of factors, such as:

• Cervical spondylosis
• Arthritis
• Emotional stress
• Poor posture
• Consistently carrying a bag on the same shoulder
• TMJ
• Injury or trauma from accidents

With aging and certain other factors, your joints can become painful and worn down over time.

Whiplash is a common cause of neck pain that’s usually associated with auto accidents. Whiplash happens when your neck is rapidly forced to move into an unnatural position.

Neck pain is often caused by overuse of the muscles in the neck or inflammation of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, or bones. If neck pain is caused by muscle tension or a strain, it can go away within a few days. Chronic neck pain lasts for several weeks or longer.

What methods can diagnose neck pain?

To diagnose your neck pain, your Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine doctor starts by discussing your medical and family history and your current symptoms.

Your doctor might recommend any necessary imaging or testing, such as an X-ray or bloodwork, to figure out the levels of inflammation and other important aspects of your overall health.

Your doctor checks for numbness, tenderness, and muscle weakness in your shoulders and neck. Your doctor also evaluates your range of motion and mobility and how far you can move your head forward and backward and from side to side.

What are the treatment options for neck pain?

Neck pain might respond to massage, alternating a heat and ice pack, warm showers, certain exercises, soft neck collars and other supportive neck devices, enhancing your posture, stretching, and watchful waiting.

To treat your neck pain, your Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine doctor might also recommend:

• Physical therapy and rehabilitative exercises
• Regenerative medicine, such as stem cell therapy
• Bracing or splinting
• Athletic taping
• Hot or cold therapy
• Steroid injections and other joint injections
• Electrical stimulation
• Acupuncture and electroacupuncture
• Botox® injections
• Osteopathic manipulation treatment (OMT)
• Limited use of medications when necessary, such as muscle relaxants

The goal is to enhance the functioning of your neck and relieve your neck pain and any associated headaches.

Neck pain can stop you from doing the things you love. The Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine doctors are here to help. Schedule over the phone or click to book an appointment online.