What causes neck pain?
Much neck pain comes from overuse and posture — hours hunched over a computer or looking down at a phone strain the muscles of the neck. Joints wear down over time (osteoarthritis), creating bone spurs, stiffness and pain. Injuries such as whiplash, where the head and neck jerk forcefully back and forth, are another common cause.
- Strains and injuries
- Whiplash
- Worn joints and arthritis
- Compressed nerves
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Abnormalities of the vertebrae
What is chronic neck pain?
Most neck pain is short-lived. Neck pain that lasts longer than three months — constant or coming and going — is considered chronic.
When should I see a doctor?
Neck pain can bring muscle tightness, spasms, headaches and trouble turning your head. If home care like over-the-counter pain relievers and ice doesn’t help, book a visit: compressed nerves, worn joints and neck injuries can get worse without proper care.
Seek prompt medical care if neck pain comes with numbness or tingling in your arms and hands, or follows a car accident or other injury.
How we treat neck pain
After a thorough exam, imaging review and history, Dr. Coccaro designs a plan around the true pain generator. It may include:
- Epidural injections
- Facet joint injections and medial branch blocks
- Selective nerve blocks and sympathetic chain blocks
- Trigger point injections
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Botox® injections
- Regenerative medicine
- Spinal cord stimulation (Nevro HF10® or Boston Scientific systems)
- Medication such as anti-inflammatories or Suboxone®