Neck pain is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions affecting patients. This condition mainly develops due to poor lifestyle choices and results in symptoms like intense pain and limited motion. Patients should seek an accurate diagnosis for Woodbury neck pain to determine the underlying cause of their concerns and thus develop an ideal treatment option for recovery.
What is the function of the neck?
The neck is a crucial part of your anatomy because it supports the head. The bones found in the top part of the spine, together with muscles, ligaments and nerves work together to ensure support for the head. Moreover, the neck allows the head to move in different directions.
Due to the complex nature of the neck’s structure and function, it is vulnerable to many different kinds of injuries. For example, sleeping in the wrong position or undergoing trauma to the neck can cause severe problems and limit your quality of life due to the pain.
What are the symptoms of neck pain?
Physicians should include symptoms of neck pain in patient education to help patients recognize signs early and thus seek treatment before complications develop. The symptoms of neck pain may vary depending on the patient’s underlying condition or severity of the disease or injury. These are the most common symptoms indicating neck pain:
- Pain worsens when you move your head in a specific direction or hold it a certain way
- Headache
- Muscle pain and tightness
It is essential to seek emergency care services if you notice persistent symptoms of neck pain. A physician will conduct a comprehensive exam to accurately diagnose the root cause of your neck pain, developing an ideal approach to relief.
What causes neck pain?
It is crucial for patients to understand what causes neck pain so they can avoid anything that may be contributing to their pain. These are the leading causes of neck pain:
- Carrying heavy weight
- Poor posture
- Poor sleep habits
- Arthritis
- Trauma from a car accident
- Pinched nerves
- Gritting your teeth
- Tumor
- Infection
- Herniated disk
How do physicians diagnose the cause of neck pain?
The initial step for patients to take upon noticing persistent neck pain symptoms is to seek emergency care from trained and experienced personnel. A physician will conduct a physical exam while discussing symptoms with the patient to understand the severity and location of the pain. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans can pinpoint abnormalities for a physician to address. Your doctor may need to review your family and medical history to understand present risk factors that may predispose you to certain conditions, which could explain your symptoms.
The diagnostic process of neck pain is crucial for treatment efficacy because your doctor gets the necessary information to develop an ideal approach to symptom relief. However, there is a need for training and experience on the physician’s part to ensure accurate results.
What is the treatment for neck pain?
Various treatments can relieve your symptoms and improve the structure and function of your neck. A physician may recommend physical therapy, medications, or invasive surgical procedures depending on your condition. Contact Woodbury Spine if you want to find out the available treatment options that can effectively improve your symptoms and thus enhance your quality of life.
