Neck Pain Specialist

What causes neck pain?

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

• Muscle strain from poor posture while working at your computer or desk
• Worn joints
• Diseases (arthritis, cancer, meningitis)
• Nerve compression
• Injuries

Neck pain is sometimes a symptom of a serious problem. Schedule an appointment if you have neck pain with loss of strength in your hands or arms, numbness, or experience shooting pain in your shoulder 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 help prevent neck pain by improving your posture and keeping your head centered over your spine, and your shoulders lined up with your hips.

If you work long hours or travel long distances, take frequent movement breaks to stretch your neck and shoulders. Check that your desk and chair are lined up properly to keep the computer monitor at eye level.

To reduce strain on your neck while sleeping, use a small pillow positioned under your neck and align your head and neck with your body. Elevate your thighs with pillows to flatten your spinal muscles and reduce strain on your back.

When should you call a doctor for neck pain?

Although most neck pain resolves within a few days at home, you should call your doctor if your neck pain is severe or lasts several days without relief. You should also seek medical attention if your neck pain is accompanied by a headache, weakness, or numbness, or if the pain travels down your arms or legs.

How is neck pain treated?

The providers at Brooklyn Pain Doctors may prescribe pain medication, muscle relaxants, and tricyclic antidepressants for pain relief. If these methods fail to relieve the pain, your doctor may suggest:

• Physical therapy
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• Weights or pulleys to gently stretch the neck
• Short term immobilization with a neck collar
• Corticosteroid injections

In rare cases, the doctors may use surgery treat neck pain and relieve spinal cord compression or nerve root compression.

Call the office, or schedule an appointment online if you have persistent neck pain. The experienced team at Brooklyn Pain Doctors can diagnose and treat your condition to help relieve discomfort.