The neck is a flexible joint that supports the weight of the head. It undergoes a lot of movement and is therefore prone to stress and injuries. Cervical or neck pain is a common problem affecting the people irrespective of gender or age. It is generally not a symptom or indication of a serious underlying disorder.
Causes
- Maintaining a poor posture, hunching or slouching while sitting are common contributing factors
- Sitting and working on the computer for too long or using the mobile phone continuously
- Osteoarthritis- loss of cushioning between the neck joints due to ageing
- Vehicular accident may cause a shock to the cervical region of the spine (Whiplash injuries)
- A fall from a height
- Sea divers are at a risk of developing cervical pain
- Habit of gritting the teeth can strain the neck muscles
- Reading while lying down in bed
- Compression of nerves due to Herniated Discs or Bone Spurs
- Rheumatoid Arthritis, Meningitis
Symptoms
- Numbness
- Pain which can be mild or severe that shoots down the arms and shoulders
- Tenderness in the affected area
- Weakness or loss of strength in the upper extremities
- Tightness in the neck and shoulder muscles
- Muscle spasms
- Recurrent headaches
- Reduced flexibility of the neck
- Pricks or tingling sensation in the neck and upper parts of the body
- Coughing or sneezing may cause pain
Diagnosis
- Details of the medical history of the patient may be taken down
- The doctor may palpate to check for tenderness, muscle weakness and loss of movement
- X-ray imaging may be required to check for structural changes in the spine
- MRI scan may be helpful in taking images of the soft tissues and bone structure
- CT scan may present a detailed three dimensional picture of the spine
- Blood tests to check for spinal infections or inflammation
- Electromyography – nerve test that is conducted by inserting needles through the skin of the neck
Treatment
- The physician may prescribe painkillers and muscle relaxants
- Physical therapy sessions may help to align the cervical vertebrae and strengthen the neck muscles as well as soft tissues
- Application of heat pads or ice packs may reduce inflammation and pain
- Electrical stimulation may help to ease the pain and promote nerve functioning
- Manual traction using weights and pulleys to increase intervertebral spaces in the cervical
- Use of a soft neck collar for a short duration for support
- The doctor may inject steroids into the affected part
- Nerve compression may be released through surgery
- Gentle exercises may be performed to keep the joints in good health
For complete treatment of Cervical Pain, visit the spine specialists at OrthoTexas. We offer surgical and non-surgical treatment to provide relief from pain. If you would like to see a doctor to evaluate neck pain, it’s easy to schedule online.
