Neck Pain

Woman rubbing her neck in pain.

Most people have woken up with a stiff or aching neck at one time or another and while it’s uncomfortable, it’s not long lasting. However, if you live with chronic or severe neck pain, you know exactly how much of a toll neck pain can take on your ability to stay active and maintain a good quality of life.

You probably also have a number of questions about your condition, from what the cause is behind your pain, to what you can do to feel better.

That’s why we’ve put together the most frequently asked questions about living with neck pain here, so that you can determine the next step in your neck pain care.

The Anatomy of Your Neck

Your neck or cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae, along with ligaments, tendons, shock-absorbent discs and spinal nerves that must all work together, so that you can move your neck freely and comfortably.

If there’s a breakdown in any portion in this chain of anatomy, you can end up with either acute or chronic neck pain.

What Causes Neck Pain?

While many cases of neck pain are simple sprains or strains that can resolve with hot or cold packs, rest, and gentle stretching, pain that does not improve is an indication to see your doctor and have the cause of your neck pain checked.

Common issues that cause neck pain include:

  • Whiplash – when your head suddenly moves backward then forward, such as in a rear-end collision
  • Sports injuries –from a sudden twist or blow to the head or neck
  • Osteoporosis – a decrease in bone density which can lead to fracture
  • Cervical spinal stenosis – a compression of your cervical spinal cord
  • Fibromyalgia – a chronic, widespread pain condition
  • Arthritis – irritation, inflammation, and swelling in your neck joints
  • Cervical bulging or herniated disc – a compression of your disc

Treatment for Neck Pain

Initial treatment for neck pain is usually conservative. This can involve a combination of rest, physical and medication for inflammation and pain, as well as physical therapy.

However, if you don’t experience relief from your neck pain with conservative care, minimally invasive injections can help you achieve lasting improvement and help you get back to the activities you love.

At Cahaba Pain and Spine Care, our Board Certified Pain Physicians specialize in the following procedures for the relief of neck pain:

These procedures are designed to address the source of your pain and get back to living, with minimal downtime. Our experienced team will analyze your condition and determine which procedure is right for you.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you or someone you know is suffering from severe or chronic neck pain, call Cahaba Pain and Spine Care and schedule an appointment today.