Neck Pain

What is neck pain?

Pain or stiffness in your neck occurs when the ligaments, tendons, or muscles in your neck become inflamed. There are many possible causes of neck pain, and it isn’t always a serious issue. However, going through your day without being able to freely move your neck is difficult and inconvenient.

Why do I have neck pain?

Of the numerous possible causes of neck pain, some are more easily identifiable than others. If you choose to pursue treatment for your neck pain, the team at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine comprehensively evaluates your neck’s mobility and the level of pain that you feel. They may also order on-site X-ray imaging or an MRI scan to view the inner structures of your upper spine and neck.

Possible causes of your neck pain include:

• Having poor posture
• Jerking your neck abruptly
• Sleeping in an unusual position
• An accident
• Herniated or bulging discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Pinched nerves
• Meningitis
• Osteoporosis
• Arthritis
• Fibromyalgia

Accidents and overuse often result in muscle strains, which are a very common type of injury that typically isn’t serious. If a chronic condition or disease is causing your neck pain, you need the proper treatment to stop it from worsening.

How can I relieve my neck pain at home?

Since many cases of neck pain are temporary and don’t warrant a trip to your doctor, knowing the steps to take to relieve the pain is useful. If your neck aches or feels stiff, you may:

• Alternate cold and hot compresses
• Use nonprescription pain relievers
• Massage your neck gently
• Stretch your neck each day to the best of your ability
• Take time off from exercise, sports, and lifting

You should also actively attempt to maintain an upright posture, especially when working on a computer. If these steps don’t relieve your pain, you need to visit Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine.

How is neck pain treated?

If you seek treatment at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine for persistent or severe neck pain, the team may choose one or more of the following treatments to aid in your healing.

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Trigger point injections
• Physical therapy
• Posture correction exercises
• Neck braces
• Percutaneous discectomy
• Facet joint injections
• Epidural injections 
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Lipogems & BMAC (bone marrow aspirate concentrate)

For the best possible outcome, you must follow your treatment plan closely and be sure that you don’t miss any appointments. 

If your neck pain persists past your attempts to alleviate it, don’t hesitate to call Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine or request a convenient appointment time online today.