Neck pain is a widespread occurrence as it often relates to underlying issues like headaches, throat aches, stiffness, or herniated discs. The symptoms that contribute to neck pain include:
Most neck pain begins with a dull ache and may worsen over time to include soreness and sharp or radiating pain that will lead to facial, chest, back, upper extremity, or head pain.
Your Neck Structure
There are ten specific structural elements to the neck including the skin, lymph nodes, larynx, trachea, esophagus, parathyroid glands, thyroid gland, veins, arteries, and muscles. Any underlying virus, disorder, or disease that affects any of these components cause neck pain.
Some neck pain is also associated with pinched nerves, herniated discs, and lower back pain. As there are seven vertebrae in the spinal cord that will suffer from inflammation, it is possible to feel pain in each these areas since the cervical vertebrae extend from the neck to the lower back.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Neck Pain
You do not need to seek out a specialist as any medical provider will be able to diagnose neck pain. Maryland Pain & Wellness will first review a patient’s medical history to see if it is an on-going condition that is causing the pain. It is also crucial for our doctor to perform an exam as well as speak with the patient about symptoms, the location of the pain, duration, or intensity.
After confirming the root cause, our doctor will offer a treatment plan that includes traditional medicine as well as access to physical therapy and acupuncture as a secondary form of treatment. A medical professional will also test for a range of motion to see if movement relieves or worsens the pain. If further examination is required to diagnose a medical condition, the doctor will order testing like CT scans, X-rays, MRIs, or appropriate assessment based on symptoms.
Neck Pain Treatment
Depending on the type of neck pain you suffer, your treatment plan will include rest, neck exercises, physical therapy, traction, heat compresses, OTC or prescription pain relievers, or muscle relaxers. If you suffer from chronic neck pain, you will also benefit from homeopathy or acupuncture. In more severe cases, patients will need surgical intervention to overcome anxiety.
Overcoming neck pain depends solely on the cause and after-injury care. The good news is that patients overcome most neck pain with traditional, non-invasive treatment plans that resolve the problem quickly. Patients may also engage in neck strengthening exercises to prevent further discomfort. To make an appointment, call our Crofton, Prince Frederick, or Salisbury offices.
