If you are looking for ways to find neck pain relief, you are not alone. There are a number of common treatments available but there is conflicting evidence about their effectiveness. As with any chronic condition, self-management is key. Here are some tips to learn more about treating neck pain naturally. Also, make sure you read up on the symptoms of the condition so you can better understand treatment options. You may also want to try these self-management techniques.
Treatment options
Nonsurgical treatments are an excellent way to relieve neck pain. While they won’t solve the underlying cause, these treatments are still very effective, especially if you’re suffering from minor strains, poor posture, or chronic pain. Physical therapy can help you get back to your normal routine and prevent re-injury by strengthening the neck muscles. Massage Therapy and yoga may be recommended for temporary relief. Chiropractic manipulation or traction may also be an option. Surgical options are usually only recommended in severe cases.
Injections can also provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation and blocking pain. These injections typically involve a steroid and local anesthetic. However, injections should be followed by lifestyle changes and therapeutic exercises if you want long-term relief. Moreover, they carry a high risk of serious side effects and should be accompanied by a course of physical therapy. Nonetheless, they are often the last resort before surgery for neck pain.
Degenerative disc disease and a herniated disc are common causes of neck pain. During an injury, the vertebrae are forced forward, pressing on the cervical disc. Some sports such as skiing, volleyball, and soccer can cause hyperflexion of the neck. When the vertebrae compress on the nucleus pulposus, small tears can occur. In severe cases, medical treatment may involve surgery or OTC pain medications.
Symptoms
If non-surgical Chiropractic Treatment has not relieved your neck pain, it may be time to consider surgical treatment. Cervical radiculopathy, or a pinched nerve, is often the source of neck pain. Patients may experience pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm or shoulder, as well as problems with reflexes and balance. Surgery can release pressure on the nerves to reduce pain and restore function. In severe cases, a compressed spinal cord may cause pain and weakness throughout the entire body.
The cervical spine contains seven interlocking vertebrae, numbered C1 through C7. C1 and C2 are known as the atlas and axis, respectively. Facet joints join these vertebrae. Discs between them act as shock absorbers. However, a pinched nerve can also cause numbness, tingling, and sharp pain. If a pinched nerve is the source of pain, a doctor may prescribe medication to relieve the pain.
Rest and ice are effective treatments for neck pain. Applying ice to the painful area can relieve the pain, but avoid lifting or bending the neck for several days. Avoid driving until you have regained full movement. When driving, adjust the headrest so that it isn’t pressing on the nerve. For more relief, massage and physical therapy may be beneficial. The pain may also be related to another medical condition. A chiropractor may prescribe a specific treatment.
Causes
Prescription medications and over-the-counter medications can be used to treat neck pain. These medications help to decrease inflammation, reduce muscle spasms, and ease sleep disturbance. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the first line of treatment for neck pain.
NSAIDs are available in the form of creams or gels that can be applied to the skin. They are also available in topical forms such as Icy-Hot or Voltaren Gel. Depending on the cause of the pain, prescription medication may be necessary.
Good posture is vital for neck pain relief. Try to sit with your back straight. Avoid slouching or forward-flanking while working. Yoga, Pilates, or the Alexander Technique are excellent for improving neck posture. Proper pillow use is also important for neck pain relief. Avoid sleeping on your stomach or hunching over a computer monitor. These visual changes can affect your posture and lead to neck pain.
Getting regular physical examinations is essential to getting neck pain relief. Physicians will note where the pain is and how long it has been bothering you. They will also ask about any physical strain, stress, or underlying diseases that may be causing the pain.
They will perform certain tests to rule out serious causes of neck pain. The doctor may palpate your neck, check your head movement, and assess your reflexes. The doctor may also perform nerve involvement tests to pinpoint exactly what is causing the neck pain.
