The neck is comprised of the vertebrae that run to the upper torso from the skull. It has cervical discs that are made in such a way that they can absorb shock between the bones. The bones, the muscles, and the ligaments of the neck are responsible for providing the head with support and facilitating motion. Therefore, any injuries, inflammation, or abnormalities in these components of the neck can lead to neck pain and even stiffness. Many people suffer from neck pain due to overuse, poor posture, and poor sleeping position. In most cases, neck pain is not a serious issue, and it can go away within a few days. However, in other cases, it can indicate a serious illness or injury. Therefore, you may have to see a sports medicine physician, such as Dr. Steven Ferrer, for diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain can occur due to a number of reasons. Some common causes of neck pain include:
- Muscle strain and tensions caused by behaviors and activities such as tweaking the neck during exercise, poor posture, and bad sleeping position among others
- Injuries from car accidents, falls, and sports
- Heart attack
- Meningitis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Spinal stenosis
- Osteoporosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Cervical discs degeneration
- Congenital abnormalities
- Infections
- Cancer of the spine
It is imperative for you to seek immediate attention of a doctor:
- If the pain is severe and without any apparent cause
- If there is a lump in your neck
- If the pain is accompanied by headache, nausea, fever, or vomiting
- If the pain is radiating down to the arms or legs
- If you cannot touch your chest with your chin
- If the pain is accompanied by bowel or bladder dysfunction
Neck pain Treatment
Treatment for neck pain usually depends on the diagnosis. Therefore, your doctor will first take your medical history and conduct a physical exam. As such, you should be prepared to give your doctor information about the specific symptoms that you have and any medication or supplements that you have been taking. Even if it may seem irrelevant, you may also have to tell your doctor about any recent accidents or injuries that you have sustained. Your doctor may also perform blood tests and even imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans. Depending on the results, there are several treatments that your doctor can recommend, Including:
- Heat and ice therapy
- Physical therapy
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic treatments
- Massage therapy
- Pain medication
- Corticosteroid injections
- Muscle relaxants
- Antibiotics
- Traction
- Surgery
The Bottom Line
Overall, it is apparent that although neck pain is not a serious issue in most cases, it can indicate a serious illness or injuries in some cases. Therefore, if you are suffering from neck pain, it is imperative for you to seek the assistance of a sports medicine practitioner for diagnosis and treatment. If you are looking for a dependable sports medicine practitioner in Ramsey, NJ, Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine is a great facility to visit.