Neck pain can be frustrating and disturbing as it can affect your ability to execute daily tasks and routines. Although some cases of neck pain are temporary and heal relatively faster, chronic neck pain can prolong for several months without treatment. Some people struggling with neck pain Henderson have found relief with easy solutions like physical therapy, while others require more intensive treatment to dismiss their distress. If you are a victim but unsure which treatment would work best for you, the following are different standard treatment options you can choose.
Medications
Over-the-counter medications are an effective way of managing your chronic neck pain. Painkillers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like naproxen, aspirin, and acetaminophen can assist in relieving neck pain. However, the best medicine may vary from one person to another, so it is essential to talk with your physician to find the best medication.
Facet Joint Injections
Facet joints function as a connector between the bones in the spine. Bones in the cervical spine enable your neck to bend and twist but assist it from moving far in any direction. If they have problems, they are likely to experience neck pain. Fortunately, the injections are essential in reducing inflammation and temporarily controlling the pain.
Spinal Cord Stimulation
These simulations are clinically proven to offer drug-free pain relief without causing any discomfort. Besides, they facilitate the blocking of painful nerve signals through a controlled electrical current. Technological advancement allows your healthcare provider to customize treatment settings and enhance control of your chronic neck pain.
Epidural Steroid Injections
Epidural steroid injections supply anesthetic and a steroid to your epidural space near the spinal cord where nerves are inflamed and irritated. The steroids effectively reduce inflammation, while the anesthetic is responsible for relieving pain by temporarily clogging the nerve that sends pain signals to the brain. These injections effectively remove pain when nerves of your cervical spine are compressed.
Surgery
In some instances, neck pain may need a cervical spinal fusion, spinal surgery, disc replacement, or discectomy if non-surgical treatments are ineffective. Anterior cervical discectomy with fusion (ACDF) is a common surgery you can receive. During the surgery, your surgeon enters the neck from the anterior and removes the damaged disc and spurs. Afterward, the surgeon places a piece of bone between the vertebrae, holding the bones together using metal plates, rods, and screws. Other surgeries include artificial disc replacement and posterior cervical laminoforaminotomy.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapy program may include therapeutic massage, ultrasound treatments, and exercises to boost your shoulders and neck range of motion, strength, and flexibility. Based on the root cause of your neck pain, your doctor may prescribe beginning with physical therapy as a conservative treatment method. The therapy is a valuable rehab component after treating injuries or conditions leading to neck pain.
The experience of neck pain can prevent you from carrying out your daily activities. Therefore, if you notice any symptoms of neck pain, you should consult your physician for an exam and treatment. If your physician is fully booked, do not worry because McNulty Spine in Henderson and Las Vegas, Nevada, is always available to help. Dr. Patrick S. McNulty is an award-winning double-certified surgeon who diagnoses and treats neck pain with massive care and compassion. To enjoy his services, call or request an online appointment today.
