Neck Pain Specialist

Neck Pain Q & A

What Causes Neck Pain?

Your neck is highly flexible and supports the weight of your head, making it vulnerable to injury. Neck pain is a common ailment with various potential causes, including:

• Muscle Strain: Poor posture, especially from long hours at your computer or desk.

• Worn Joints: Age-related wear and tear can cause the joints in your neck to become stiff or painful.

• Diseases: Conditions like arthritis, cancer, or meningitis can contribute to neck pain.

• Nerve Compression: Pressure on the nerves in your neck can cause pain, numbness, or weakness.

• Injuries: Whiplash, falls, and other accidents can cause neck injuries.

Neck pain can sometimes signal a more serious problem. Schedule an appointment if your neck pain is accompanied by weakness or loss of strength in your hands or arms, numbness, or shooting pain in your shoulders or arms.

How Is Neck Pain Prevented?

The majority of neck pain is related to poor posture and age-related wear and tear. You can take steps to prevent neck pain by improving your posture and ensuring that your head is centered over your spine, with your shoulders lined up with your hips.

Here are some simple preventive measures:

• Posture: Keep your posture aligned while sitting or standing, and ensure your desk setup is ergonomic. Align your computer monitor at eye level to avoid straining your neck.

• Movement Breaks: If you work long hours or travel, take frequent breaks to stretch your neck and shoulders.

• Sleeping Tips: Use a small pillow under your neck and align your head and neck with your body. Consider elevating your thighs with pillows to reduce strain on your back while you sleep.

When Should You Call a Doctor for Neck Pain?

While most neck pain resolves on its own within a few days, you should call a doctor if:

• The pain is severe or persists for several days without relief.

• You experience a headache, weakness, or numbness along with neck pain.

• The pain radiates down your arms or legs.

Don't hesitate to seek medical attention if you’re concerned about your neck pain.

How Is Neck Pain Treated?

At Brooklyn Pain Doctors, we offer a range of treatments to help alleviate neck pain. Our treatment options may include:

• Pain Medication: For short-term relief.

• Muscle Relaxants: To ease muscle tension and spasms.

• Tricyclic Antidepressants: To treat nerve pain associated with neck pain.

• Physical Therapy: Tailored exercises to strengthen muscles and improve mobility.

• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): Non-invasive therapy to relieve pain.

• Weight or Pulleys: Gentle stretching of the neck to improve flexibility and reduce pain.

• Neck Collar: Short-term immobilization for rest and healing.

• Corticosteroid Injections: For inflammation and pain relief.

• Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be required to relieve spinal cord compression or nerve root compression.

If your neck pain is persistent or if conservative treatments don’t help, surgery may be considered as a last resort.

If you're dealing with persistent neck pain or looking for a neck pain specialist in Brooklyn, call Brooklyn Pain Doctors today or schedule your appointment online. The experienced team at Brooklyn Pain Doctors can diagnose the cause of your neck pain and recommend the best course of treatment to help you find relief.