Like back pain, neck pain is a common complaint too amongst many individuals. It can result from different causes from wrong sleeping positions to poor postures. Usually, the pain may go away by itself and has no potential threats to your health, however, when the pain persists it is critical to seek medical help. Las Vegas neck pain specialist Dr. McNulty provides extensive care for the diagnosis and treatment of neck pain, to enhance pain relief. Here we learn more about neck pain.
What causes neck pain?
Various factors may lead to neck pain, including injuries and health conditions. Poor postures such as bending your head to look down on your computer or phone. It leads to the pulling of the neck and muscles and connective tissues causing muscle strain and pain.
They may lead to the development of a structural spinal deformity problem causing neck pain.
Neck pain may also occur from health conditions, such as:
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Cervical radiculopathy
- Osteoarthritis
- Herniated discs
- Myelopathy
- Lumbar spine or thoracic deformity
- Whiplash injury
Neck pain can also result from the natural wear and tear of the joints around your joints.
Typically neck pain should not last more than a few weeks, where if it does, you need to consult with your medical provider right away for a diagnosis. Neck pain that causes numbness and weakness requires immediate care too.
Other than pain around your neck, you can also experience the following symptoms.
- Muscle tightness and spasms
- Reduced head mobility
- Headache
- Pain that moves down your arms and legs
Diagnosing neck pain
After visiting your provider for neck pain, they perform a physical exam and review your medical history to identify the cause of the neck pain. They also conduct diagnostic testing to further check out for the causes not readily apparent. Dr. McNulty and the team at McNulty Spine carries out a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying issues.
Other tests for neck pain, may include:
- CT scan
- X-rays
- Bone scan
- Nerve conduction study
- Electromyography
- MRI
- Myelography
- Spinal injections
After getting the diagnostic results, your provider starts on finding your specific treatment plan.
What are your treatment options for neck pain?
Usually, your provider customizes your treatment option to address your exact cause of pain. Conservative treatment options usually come first before moving to surgical treatments. From spinal pain injections to cervical disc replacement, Dr. McNulty has experience in addressing all types of cervical spine issues, including neck pain.
Here are some of the available treatment options.
- Medications
- Physical therapy
- Nerve stimulations
- Spinal injections
- Nerve block injections
- Cervical disc replacement
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Cervical fusion reconstruction
Alternative methods may also provide relief for neck pain, including:
- Massage
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic
You can also try on some home remedies for neck pain, such as:
- Home exercises
- Over-the-counter painkillers
- Alternate heat and cold
How can you prevent neck pain?
You can prevent neck pain related to poor posture by ensuring your head is at a center position with the spine. You can try doing the following:
- Sleeping in a good position
- Taking regular breaks from work
- Use good posture
- Avoid carrying heavy bags over your shoulder
Neck pain should go away within a few days; however, you need to seek medical care if it stays for longer than usual. McNulty provides comprehensive care for neck pain, including diagnosis and treatments. Call McNulty Spine today, to schedule your consultation.
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