Anyone can experience neck pain which resolves by resting or taking pain relievers. But in case the pain persists or affects your mobility, you may need medical care. If you are struggling with neck pain in Northern Virginia, visit Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists for professional diagnosis and treatment. Do not allow persistent neck pain to affect the quality of your life.
What causes neck pain?
You can experience neck pain due to injuries and other medical conditions. If your neck pain worsens over time, affecting your daily activities and the quality of your life, you should seek a professional diagnosis. In some cases, neck pain may deteriorate and temporarily disable you. Some of the common factors that may contribute to neck pain include:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Structural deformities
- Osteoarthritis
- Muscle strain
- Cancer (metastatic and primary)
- Vertebral abnormalities
- Degenerative disc disease
In most cases, neck pain results from awkward twisting, lifting heavy objects, and poor mechanics. You are also likely to experience neck pain if you maintain a specific position for an extended period while sleeping, working, or driving. The physicians at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists can help you detect the root cause of your neck pain and recommend the appropriate treatment.
When should you seek medical help for neck pain?
In some cases, you may not need professional help and can alleviate neck pain through conservative techniques or adequate rest. Seek immediate medical care if neck pain persists or occurs in conjunction with the following symptoms:
- Numbness or arm pain
- Swelling or inflammation at the back of your neck
- Lower or upper extremity focal weakness
- Traumatic injury
- Fecal or urinary incontinence
During your appointment, your doctor will conduct a comprehensive examination and enquire about your symptoms. Before recommending the appropriate treatment plan, they may also order X-rays, blood tests, and imaging studies like MRI or CT scans.
What are the available treatments for neck pain?
After determining the underlying cause of your neck pain, Drs. Huffman and Ghazal create a personalized treatment plan for you. Your treatment plan may include the following:
- Lifestyle adjustments
The physicians at IPRMS may recommend that you make a few lifestyle adjustments such as maintaining proper posture, avoiding sitting in the same position for extended periods, exercising, and weight to alleviate neck pain.
- Therapies
If resting does not improve your symptoms, your doctor may recommend therapies, such as physical therapy and acupuncture. These therapies focus on strengthening your neck muscles and restoring your spinal alignment.
- Medications
You can also obtain relief from neck pain by taking medications, such as topical pain relievers, over-the-counter pain relievers, and muscle relaxants. Taking prescribed medications relieves pain by blocking pain signals or muscle tension.
- Interventional treatment
If your symptoms do not improve with medications, the physicians at IPRMS may recommend injection therapies. They may include facet joint injections, medial branch diagnostic blocks, radiofrequency ablation, and epidural steroid injections. Your doctor may also recommend intrathecal drug delivery or spinal cord stimulation for long-term relief.
If neck pain disrupts your daily activities, call Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists or schedule your appointment online.
