Neck pain can arise from a variety of causes such as muscle strains, nerve compressions, poor posture, and injuries.
Neck pain (also known as wear and tear arthritis) refers to chronic pain or stiffness in the neck that most people experience at some point in their life. This condition can be chronic and can significantly affect a person’s ability to perform routine activities independently, thereby lowering their quality of life. The neck (cervical spine) is made up of vertebrae that extend from the skull to the upper torso. The bones and neck muscles support the head and allow for motion. Therefore, any specific abnormalities, inflammation or injury can result in chronic pain and stiffness. Generally, pain can be felt in any of the areas such as the neck, shoulders, upper back or sometimes radiate down the arm. There are different signs and symptoms associated with this condition that can range from mild to severe and correct evaluation of these symptoms is essential for effective treatment. What Causes Pain? Chronic pain and stiffness are common symptoms associated with this condition. It can occur in the middle of the neck/or on both sides and extend down the shoulders or chest. On the other hand, numbness, tingling sensation, dizziness or lightheadedness are some of the other associated symptoms. Some of the major causes of this condition include – Improper body mechanics like poor posture or muscle strain Nerve compression Spinal cord injuries (usually after a fall or motor accident) Muscle tension and strains Diseases and conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and osteoporosis Herniated disc and bone spurs Ways to Reduce Neck Pain There are different approaches for neck pain treatment. The treatment modality may vary from one person to another and may depend on different factors such as patient age, severity of symptoms and exact location of pain. Specialists at a multi-specialty healthcare center provide effective and result-oriented treatment that helps patients to effectively manage this disease. Pain management specialists in these centers will make an accurate diagnosis of the disease through a complete physical examination and radiological evaluations such as X-rays, MRI scan and CT scan. Depending on the diagnosis, these specialists will combine different non-surgical treatment modalities for effectively treating this condition. Here is a list of the top non-operative treatments for this condition –
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Physical therapy – This method uses therapeutic treatment programs to reduce aches and muscle stiffness to different regions surrounding the neck. Physical therapy includes a range of exercises such as strengthening, stretching and aerobic exercises that allow patients to improve their posture and range of motion. Chiropractic care – Chiropractic treatment helps to loosen up the joints of the vertebrae in the neck and reduce chronic pain and muscle spasms. Chiropractors provide specialized care to correct the overall posture and spinal alignment. Cervical epidural injections – These are injected into the epidural space in order to reduce inflammation around the irritated nerve and significantly reduce pain and improve function. Massage therapy – Generally performed by a trained physical or massage therapist, this method minimizes muscle sprain and spasm following a neck injury. Prescription medications – Different types of medications such as non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), analgesics, corticosteroids, and muscle relaxants are prescribed by physicians to reduce inflammation and muscle spasms associated with this condition. Game Ready Cold Therapy Compression System (for acute injuries and post operative recovery) – This computer-controlled modality combines active compression and cold therapies in a single treatment system. It enhances tissue healing and enables natural muscle contraction thereby helping to reduce pain and muscle contraction.
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