Neck Pain
Neck Pain Overview
Neck pain is a common type of pain that nearly everyone experiences at some point in their life. A spine specialist should see neck pain that lasts more than a few days. Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) spine specialists make accurate diagnoses and prescribe neck pain-reducing treatment plans.
Symptoms & Causes
Neck pain symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Muscle spasms
- Muscle tightness
- Pain that is worse when the head is held still for prolonged periods
- Stiffness
Common neck pain causes are:
- Osteoarthritis
- Poor posture
- Weak neck muscles
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options treat neck pain. After a thorough evaluation, a CONA spine specialist may recommend:
- A brace or soft collar
- Activity modifications
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
- Pain medications
- Physical therapy
Surgery is not recommended for general neck pain. In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be offered for fast-acting pain relief.
