Neck Pain
Living with Neck Pain: How It Affects Daily Life
- Pain Relief Option
Conditions That Cause Neck Pain
Arthritis
Degenerative conditions affecting the cervical spine.
Whiplash
Sudden head movements that injure soft tissue.
Herniated Discs
Discs pressing on nerves in the neck, causing pain.
Muscle Strains
Caused by overuse, such as spending long hours hunched over a computer or smartphone.
Nerve Compression
Caused by bone spurs or herniated discs. Understanding and treating these conditions is vital to managing your neck pain effectivel.
- Causes
Causes of Neck Pain
- Medical Conditions : Such as infections, tumors, or congenital issues.
- Degenerative Conditions : Arthritis or other age-related changes in the spine.
- Herniated Discs : Displacement of discs between vertebrae, compressing nerves.
- Injury or Trauma : Accidents, sports injuries, or falls can cause significant damage.
- Poor Posture : Spending extended periods in poor posture, such as sitting at a desk or looking down at a phone.
Reach out to HTx to schedule a consultation and get a personalized treatment plan for your neck pain.
- Types
Types of Neck Pain
Dr. Baumgartner and the HTx team conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of your joint pain, which may include:
Axial Neck Pain
Felt mostly in the neck area, this pain is often related to muscle strain or soft tissue injury.
Radicular Neck Pain
This type of pain radiates from the neck into the shoulders or arms, typically caused by nerve compression.
Acute Neck Pain
Lasts from days to six weeks, often resulting from recent injury or strain.
Chronic Neck Pain
Persists for more than three months, often linked to underlying conditions or previous injuries.
What Does Neck Pain Feel Like?
- Persistent ache
- Stiffness in the neck and upper back
- Stabbing or burning sensations
- Numbness or tingling in the shoulders or arms
- Shooting pain radiating to the shoulders or arms
- Diagnostic
How is Neck Pain Diagnosed?
At HTx, Dr. Baumgartner and the team utilize a thorough diagnostic approach to determine the cause of your neck pain. After a detailed medical history and physical examination, advanced imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be used to assess any structural issues. Electrodiagnostic tests can evaluate nerve and muscle function, while lab tests can rule out infections or other medical conditions. This comprehensive approach ensures a precise diagnosis, leading to effective treatment.
- X-rays: To check bone alignment and detect fractures or arthritis.
- MRI : To visualize soft tissues, including discs and nerves.
- CT Scan : For detailed images of bones and soft tissues.
- Electrodiagnostic Tests : To assess nerve and muscle function.
- Lab Tests : To rule out other underlying conditions.
Visit HTx for a comprehensive diagnosis and personalized treatment plan from our specialists.
- Advanced Treatment
Treatment Options for Neck Pain
Medications
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Alternative Therapies
Acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic adjustments.
Physical Therapy
Strengthening exercises and flexibility improvement.
Injections
Targeted steroid injections to reduce inflammation.
Surgery
Reserved for severe cases when conservative treatments are ineffective.
- Pain
When Should I Call the Doctor if I Have Neck Pain?
If your pain is severe, you may need to work with a pain specialist in HTx. You should seek immediate care if neck pain results from an injury, such as a motor vehicle accident, sports injury, or fall. Contact HTx if your neck pain:
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Pain following a motor vehicle accident, sports injury, or fall
- Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
- Headaches, dizziness, or nausea
- Fever, chills, or unexplained weight loss
- Persistent pain despite over-the-counter medications
- Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Neck Pain
Neck pain often results from poor posture, muscle strain, injuries, herniated discs, or degenerative conditions like arthritis.
Neck pain is diagnosed through medical history, physical exams, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to identify underlying issues.
CINP offers a range of treatments, including medications, physical therapy, TENS units, injections, and surgery for severe cases.
Seek medical attention if your neck pain persists for more than a few days, is severe, or is accompanied by numbness, weakness, or other concerning symptoms.
Yes, many cases of neck pain can be managed with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and alternative therapies.
Warning signs include loss of bladder or bowel control, severe pain following an injury, and symptoms like numbness, weakness, or unexplained weight loss.
Recovery time varies depending on the cause and severity of the pain. Texas will guide you through a personalized treatment plan for the best recovery.
Yes, physical therapy can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain, aiding in recovery and preventing future issues.