Neck pain is common. Two out of every three individuals will experience neck pain at some point in their lives. Between 20% and 70% of adults experience neck pain that disrupts daily activities. When neck pain and movement restriction are negatively impacting your quality of life, it is good to know that you have an expert, local orthopedic solution you can rely on.
At EmergeOrtho, our board-certified physicians understand that neck pain can be caused by a multitude of factors. Therefore, determining the precise cause of your symptoms is the most important step in the treatment process. Our neck and spine specialists work together to assess the complete picture and ensure a proper diagnosis.
What Are the Common Causes of Neck Pain?
The neck is comprised of muscles, ligaments, nerves, discs, and bones, and has the paramount responsibility of supporting the head. When any of these components of the neck becomes compromised, it can lead to varying degrees of pain and discomfort.
Neck pain most commonly results from injury and wear and tear of the spine over time.
Anything from a car accident or sports-related trauma to an unexpected fall can cause the neck to experience hyperextension or hyperflexion, ultimately resulting in injury.
In the case of cervical disc degeneration (referred to as spondylosis), the space between the vertebrae narrows and places stress on the joints of the spine. Sometimes the disc can even protrude, placing even more stress on the spinal cord. When this happens, orthopedic specialists diagnose the condition as a herniated disc.
Additional causes of neck pain include:
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Pinched nerves
- Fractures and traumatic injuries
- Structural problems
- Improper posture
- Spondylosis
- Infections
- Arthritis
- Whiplash injuries
If you suspect you may have experienced any of the conditions or injuries listed above, seeking the aid of a neck pain doctor who specializes in treating the neck, back, and spine can help alleviate your symptoms and ensure a safe recovery.
Treatment for Neck Pain
Many times, neck pain improves with home treatment. However, if your pain is severe, you should seek medical attention — delaying treatment means risking further damage.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact one of our orthopedic physicians:
- Difficulty moving your head from side to side
- Pain that radiates to your hands and arms
- Arm weakness
- Clumsiness
- Change in hand and arm coordination
- Sensitivity in the leg or arm
Your neck pain specialist may perform a variety of imaging tests to determine the exact cause of your neck pain. These may include a Computerized Axial Tomography (CT) scan, Electromyogram (EMG), X-ray, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
We offer an extensive scope of both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for neck pain. These include:
- Medication
- Physical therapy
- Traction
- Steroid injections
If a neck injury is severe or has not responded to conservative treatment methods, surgical intervention may be needed, particularly if the neck pain is related to a fracture, slipped disc, or problems with the spine.
Only a handful of sub-specialties are as complex as those of the neck, spine and back. The EmergeOrtho team is dedicated to helping you find the cause of your neck pain and creating an individualized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.
If you are experiencing neck pain, don’t delay treatment. Request a visit now to relieve pain and Emerge Stronger. Healthier. Better.
