The cervical spine is a marvelous and complex structure. It is capable of supporting a head weighing 15 or more pounds while moving in several directions. No other region of the spine has such freedom of movement. This combination however, complexity and mobility, make the neck susceptible to pain and injury.
Types of Neck Pain :
Due to the complex and delicate nature of the neck, a pain in the neck can manifest in several different ways. The most commonly reported types are:
- Muscular. The muscles of the neck can become achy and sore after strenuous activity or psychological stress. Muscle spasms in the neck can cause painful tightening and stiffness.
- Headache. Typically appearing at the back of the head or the top of the neck, neck-induced headaches result from muscle tension or spasms.
- Vertebral. Arthritis in the vertebral facet joints can cause both sharp and dull pain when you move your head from side to side.
- Nerve-related. A pinched nerve in the neck can cause various levels of pain. Depending on the nerve, the pain or numbness may even extend through the arm and down to your hands.
Neck Pain Causes :
The causes of neck pain are as varied as the list is long. Consider a few examples:
- Arthritis in the neck
- Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Herniated discs
- Muscle strains
- Nerve compression
- Injuries
Treatment for Chronic Neck Pain :
Pain Experts always try the least invasive forms of treatment first. Conservative neck pain treatment options include:
- Rest
- Physical therapy and exercise
- Alternating ice and heat
- Posture improvement
- Therapeutic massage
- Anti-inflammatory medicine
- Pharmacotherapy
- Cervical Facet Joint / Median Branch Neurolysis
- Occipital nerve block :
- Radiofrequency procedures :
- Cervical Epidural Steroid
