athlete running with neck overlay visualized

Neck Pain

What Hurts?

Introduction

Neck pain can disrupt daily life and hinder mobility, affecting both physical comfort and overall well-being. In the realm of orthopedics, we navigate the complexities of neck pain, shedding light on the conditions that may contribute to it, emphasizing the importance of seeking a medical evaluation, detailing potential treatments by orthopedic specialists, and outlining initial steps towards seeking help.

About Neck Pain in Orthopedics

Orthopedic-related neck pain encompasses a spectrum of conditions affecting the cervical spine, muscles, ligaments, and nerves. From acute injuries to chronic issues, orthopedic specialists aim to diagnose and address these conditions to restore optimal function and alleviate discomfort.

Conditions that Cause Neck Pain

Neck pain may be attributed to various orthopedic conditions, including:

  • Cervical Disc Herniation
  • Cervical Spondylosis
  • Whiplash Injuries
  • Muscle Strains
  • Facet Joint Syndrome
  • Cervical Radiculopathy
  • Spinal Stenosis
  • Degenerative Disc Disease
  • Osteoarthritis of the Neck
  • Cervical Fractures

Why You Should Get a Medical Evaluation

Seeking a medical evaluation for neck pain is crucial for several reasons:

  • Accurate Diagnosis: Professional assessment helps identify the specific orthopedic cause of neck pain.
  • Tailored Treatment Plans: A medical evaluation ensures a personalized approach, addressing your unique condition and needs.
  • Preventing Complications:

    Early intervention can prevent the progression of orthopedic issues and minimize potential complications.

How an Orthopedic Doctor May Treat Neck Pain

Orthopedic specialists employ various treatments for neck pain, including:

  • Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches to improve posture, strength, and alleviate pain.
  • Medications: Prescribed pain relievers or muscle relaxants to manage neck pain.
  • Therapeutic Injections: Injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the cervical spine.
    • Corticosteroid Injections
    • Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections
    • Facet Joint Injections (Cervical)
    • Trigger Point Injections
    • Occipital Nerve Block
    • Greater Occipital Nerve Block
    • Medial Branch Block
    • Radiofrequency Ablation (Cervical)
    • Nerve Block Injections
    • Stellate Ganglion Block
    • Prolotherapy Injections
    • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
    • Hyaluronic Acid Injections
    • Botox Injections
    • Discography Injections
    • Viscosupplementation Injections
    • Synvisc Injections
    • Epidural Blood Patch
    • Intra-Articular Injections (Cervical)
  • Surgical Interventions: In cases of severe structural issues, surgical procedures may be considered.
    • Cervical Disc Replacement
    • Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
    • Posterior Cervical Fusion
    • Foraminotomy
    • Discectomy (Cervical)
    • Laminectomy (Cervical)
    • Cervical Corpectomy
    • Spinal Fusion (Cervical)
    • Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)
    • Cervical Decompression Surgery
    • Disc Arthroplasty
    • Cervical Laminoplasty
    • Cervical Osteotomy
    • Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation
    • Occipitocervical Fusion
    • Cervical Nerve Root Decompression
    • Cervical Fusion with Instrumentation
    • Facet Joint Fusion (Cervical)
    • Microdiscectomy (Cervical)

Taking First Steps Towards Getting Help

If you're experiencing neck pain, taking the first steps towards getting help involves:

  • Consulting an Orthopedic Specialist: Schedule a consultation with our experienced orthopedic team for a comprehensive evaluation.
  • Providing Detailed Information: Share specific details about your pain, including its nature, onset, and any triggering activities.
  • Actively Participating in Your Care: Be an engaged participant in your treatment plan, following recommendations and communicating changes in your condition.

Taking the First Step

If you're ready to take control of your back and spine pain, the first step is reaching out to our experienced team. Don't let pain limit your life any longer. Schedule a consultation, and let us work together to craft a plan that suits your unique needs and lifestyle.