Neck Pain Management Specialist in Plano, TX

Neck pain can be caused by a few different factors. Poor posture, like hunching over a desk for long periods, can cause some strain on the muscles and ligaments in the neck. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.

Muscle strains are another common cause of neck pain. These can be caused by sudden movements, such as whiplash from a car accident or sports injury, or by repetitive motions, such as twisting or turning the neck repeatedly.

Worn joints can also contribute to neck pain. As we age, the cartilage between the vertebrae in the neck can deteriorate, causing bone spurs to develop. This can lead to pain and stiffness in the neck.

Nerve compression can also be a cause of neck pain. Herniated discs or bone spurs can put pressure on the nerves in the neck, causing pain, numbness, or tingling sensations.

Injuries such as whiplash can also cause neck pain. This kind of injury happens when the head is jolted forward and then backward all of a sudden, causing strain to the ligaments and muscles.

When it comes to diagnosing neck pain, doctors usually start with a thorough physical examination. During this examination, they will likely ask you detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history, as well as perform a comprehensive physical evaluation of your neck, shoulders, and arms. This may involve palpation of the affected area to identify any areas of tenderness, pain, or restricted movement.

Depending on the seriousness and how long you have had your symptoms, your doctor may also recommend additional diagnostic tests to accurately identify the underlying cause of your neck pain. Additional tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be ordered to help visualize the structures of your neck and spine and to identify any abnormalities or injuries that may be contributing to your pain. In some instances, blood tests may also be needed to see if there might be some underlying medical issues that could be causing your neck pain.

Neck pain can be a common occurrence, but when it becomes chronic and interferes with your daily activities, it may be time to seek the help of a pain management specialist. A pain management expert is a medical professional who has a specific educational background in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. They can give you an all-inclusive approach to handling your pain, which may include medication, physical therapy, nerve blocks, injections, or other interventional procedures.

If you have tried other treatments for your neck pain without relief, a pain management specialist can perform a thorough exam to figure out the underlying cause of your pain. They may use imaging studies like X-rays, MRI, or a CT scan to help understand the problem. Once the reason behind your pain has been found, they can come up with a personalized treatment plan that reflects your medical history, lifestyle, and goals for pain relief.

It’s always best to talk with your physician first if you are experiencing neck pain. Your physician can go over your symptoms and refer you to a pain management expert if needed. Working with a pain management specialist you can greatly increase your quality of life and manage your chronic neck pain more effectively.

Pain management specialists may use a combination of treatments to manage neck pain, depending on the cause and severity of the pain. Some common treatments include physical therapy, medication, and injections. Physical therapy can help to improve strength and flexibility in the neck muscles, while medication can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Injections, like epidural steroid injections, can also provide some relief for severe pain in the meantime. Additionally, pain management specialists may recommend lifestyle changes, such as improving posture and reducing stress, to help prevent future neck pain. Treatment for neck pain are available at Northstar Joint and Spine. We serve patients from Plano TX, McKinney TX, Richardson TX, Frisco TX, Allen TX, Addison TX, Carrollton TX, and beyond!