Neck pain can have a serious impact on your everyday life. Whether it is from an injury, poor posture, or age-related changes, chronic neck pain can make even the simplest tasks feel difficult.
Let us explore treatment options for chronic neck pain and where you can get help.
What Causes Chronic Neck Pain
Chronic neck pain refers to persistent pain that lasts for three months or longer. It can be caused by several factors, including the following.
Poor Posture
Daily habits like sitting at a computer or looking down at your phone can place strain on your neck.
Degenerative Conditions
Conditions such as cervical spondylosis, herniated discs, or degenerative disc disease can break down the structural components of your spine, contributing to long-term pain.
Trauma or Injury
Vehicular accidents, falls, or sports injuries can also result in chronic neck pain if not properly treated.
Medical Conditions
Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, infections, or even tumors can sometimes result in persistent neck discomfort.
If you experience chronic pain, it is essential to seek help and identify its root cause. Proper diagnosis is key to finding relief.
What Doctor to See for Neck Pain
Several medical professionals can assist you with neck pain, but the type of specialist you need depends on the severity and cause of your condition.
Here are some experts to consider.
Primary Care Physicians
Primary care physicians are general doctors who are often the first point of contact for any medical issue, including neck pain. They perform an initial evaluation to identify the possible causes of your discomfort. If the pain is mild, they might recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), which can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Additionally, they may suggest simple lifestyle changes, such as improving posture, or refer you to physical therapy if they believe it could help. If your neck pain does not improve or seems more serious, they can guide you towards the appropriate specialist for further evaluation.
Orthopedic Spine Specialists
Orthopedic spine specialists are doctors who focus on treating conditions that affect the spine, including the neck, a part of the spine’s cervical region. If your neck pain is severe, persistent, or linked to conditions like herniated discs, cervical spondylosis (age-related wear and tear in the neck), or injuries, these specialists are highly qualified to help.
They will perform detailed imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to better understand the issue. Treatment options they offer include nonsurgical methods, such as physical therapy or medications, as well as advanced procedures like minimally invasive surgery if needed. They are experts in finding the right approach to manage your condition effectively.
Physical Therapists
Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in movement and rehabilitation. If your neck pain is caused by muscle tension, poor posture, or limited flexibility, they can create a personalized exercise program to help. These exercises may focus on stretching stiff muscles, strengthening weak areas, and improving your range of motion.
Physical therapists also teach techniques to prevent future pain, such as proper posture and ergonomic adjustments for daily activities. Regular sessions with a physical therapist can be very effective in reducing pain and improving your overall neck function.
Pain Management Specialists
Pain management specialists are doctors who focus on treating chronic or severe pain that has not responded to other treatments. If your neck pain persists over a long time or is significantly affecting your quality of life, they may use advanced techniques to help you manage it.
For example, they might recommend steroid injections, which are shots of medication that reduce inflammation in the affected area. They may also explore other options like nerve blocks or epidural injections.
These specialists take a comprehensive approach to pain management, often working closely with orthopedic doctors to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Treatment Options for Chronic Neck Pain
Your treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause of your neck pain. Here are some of the most common methods used to achieve relief.
Rest and Lifestyle Changes
Something as simple as resting your neck and maintaining proper posture can do wonders for mild neck injuries. Using ergonomic furniture, adjusting your workspace setup, or reducing screen time can ease the strain on your neck muscles.
Physical Therapy
A trained physical therapist can guide you through targeted exercises to strengthen your muscles, improve your range of motion, and reduce pain over time. They may also use techniques like heat therapy or electrical stimulation to aid recovery.
Medication
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage minor discomfort. For more severe cases, a doctor might prescribe muscle relaxants or corticosteroid injections (steroid shots for neck pain) to reduce inflammation.
Spine Surgery
For chronic pain that does not respond to non-invasive treatments, surgical options may be necessary. Procedures like cervical discectomy or spinal fusion can help address structural issues in the neck.
Spine specialists like Dr. Bradley D. Ahlgren use advanced surgical techniques to restore mobility and reduce pain.
Help For Chronic Neck Pain in Rochester Hills, Bad Axe, and Royal Oak, Michigan
Chronic neck pain does not have to control your life. With the help of the right specialists and personalized treatment plans, you can regain mobility, reduce pain, and get back to the activities you love.
If you are looking for expert help for chronic neck pain, visit Ahlgren Spine. Our highly trained and board-certified Dr. Bradley D. Ahlgren and his team provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for chronic neck pain. Whether you need physical therapy, a spinal injection, or advanced surgery, we are here to support you every step of the way.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ahlgren, call us today at (248) 215-8080 or fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
