Neck Pain Specialist

What causes neck pain?

Neck pain is typically due to irritation and inflammation that either affects the muscles and soft tissue of your neck or compresses one of the many nerves that travel through your cervical spine, which runs between your brain and the rest of your body. However, there are a wide variety of injuries and conditions that trigger your body’s inflammatory response.

Poor posture

The modern American lifestyle is growing increasingly sedentary and reliant on handheld technology. Many people spend eight hours or more slumped at a desk, only to spend their leisure time with their heads tilted down to gaze at their phones. These positions put enormous strain on the muscles and tendons of your neck, leading to stiffness and pain.

Degenerative conditions

Osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease are two common degenerative conditions that cause inflammation in your vertebrae. The inflammation can radiate to the supporting muscles or compress a nerve, which triggers pain signals.

Herniated discs

The discs between your vertebrae consist of a firm, rubbery shell that encloses a gelatinous center. A herniated disc occurs when the center of a disc pushes out through a small break in the outer layer. Herniated discs trigger inflammation in your spine and can compress a nerve.

Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most well-known neck injuries. You’re most likely to get whiplash if you’re involved in a rear-end auto collision that causes your head to jerk forward and then backward quickly, straining the muscles in your neck.

How is neck pain diagnosed?

The doctors at South Lake Pain Institute diagnose the cause of your neck pain with a physical exam and a variety of diagnostic imaging tests and nerve studies. During your physical exam, your doctor may guide you through a series of movements to gauge the extent of your pain and any mobility limitations. Additional diagnostic testing helps them visualize the bones and soft tissues in your neck to identify physical problems or to measure any disruption to your nerves.

How is neck pain treated?

Your South Lake Pain Institute doctor provides customized care to relieve your pain and support healing. They may prescribe oral or injectable medication like anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, or steroids to reduce swelling and pain. You may also benefit from transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) treatment. Physical therapy can also be added to your treatment plan to restore strength and flexibility in your neck.

You don’t have to accept neck pain as a normal part of life. Call or schedule a consultation online today to get the expert pain management help you need to lead a healthy and active life.