Neck Pain Overview:

• Discomfort in neck structures (muscles, nerves, bones, joints, and disks)

• Causes: injury, disease, aging, poor posture, or body mechanics

• Symptoms: burning, shooting, tingling, stabbing

• Resolves with rest, exercise, medication, and self-care

• Chronic cases may consider surgery, but it's usually not necessary

Causes of Neck Pain:

• Muscle strain from daily activities

• Injury or trauma (vertebral fractures, whiplash, blood vessel injury)

• Serious causes: cervical spondylosis, herniated disk, pinched nerves, etc.

Signs and Diagnosis:

• Consult doctor for sustained weakness, tingling, stiffness, or radiating pain

• Other symptoms: headaches, difficulty lifting objects, swallowing issues, dizziness

• Urgent care needed for severe symptoms like loss of bladder control

• Diagnosis through medical history, physical examination, imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT scan), and other tests

Neck Pain Treatment:

• Minor cases: OTC pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), ice for 48-72 hours, then heat

• Rest, slow range-of-motion exercises, massage, proper sleeping position

• Physical therapy, corticosteroid/anesthetic injections, lifestyle changes

• Surgery rarely recommended; discussed in severe cases with notable symptoms

  
  

NYPMD New York Spin Doctors:

• Multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, neurologists, researchers, pain management specialists

• Nonsurgical options explored first (medical management, pain management, physical therapy)

• Minimally invasive surgical techniques employed when needed

• Collaborative approach for better treatment decisions and outcomes

• Expert care, excellent communication, and genuine compassion provided