Neck pain is a common condition and, according to the CDC, the second most prevalent non-arthritic joint pain. At Summit Integrated Health, we understand the challenges of living with neck pain and offer comprehensive multidisciplinary care to help our patients find relief and improve their quality of life.
The Cervical Spine Anatomy
The cervical spine comprises seven vertebrae, starting from the base of the skull and ending at the top of the thoracic spine. The vertebrae are separated by intervertebral discs that provide cushioning and movement. The spinal cord runs through a central canal in the cervical spine and branches off into nerves that control sensation and movement in the arms and hands. Dysfunction in any of these structures can lead to neck pain.
What is Neck Pain?
Neck pain is a common condition that can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. It can be acute, which means it comes on suddenly and lasts for a short period, or chronic, which persists for over three months. Neck pain can be caused by various factors, including poor posture, injury, degenerative changes, and nerve compression. The symptoms of neck pain include pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, headaches, and radiating pain to the arms or shoulders.
Symptoms:
- Pain or discomfort in the neck area
- Stiffness in the neck muscles
- Limited range of motion in the neck
- Headaches or migraines
- Pain or numbness that radiates to the shoulders, arms, or hands
- Tingling or burning sensations in the neck or upper extremities
- Muscle spasms or weakness in the neck and upper back
- Clicking or popping sounds when moving the neck
- Difficulty sleeping due to discomfort in the neck and shoulders
Possible Causes:
- Poor posture, such as slouching or looking down at a screen for prolonged periods
- Muscle strain or sprain from sudden or repetitive movements
- Whiplash from car accidents or sports injuries
- Cervical spine degeneration, such as osteoarthritis, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis
- Nerve compression, such as a pinched nerve from a herniated disc or cervical spondylosis
- Trauma or injury to the neck, such as a fracture or dislocation of the cervical spine
- Tumors or infections in the cervical spine
- Medical conditions that cause inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia
Diagnosing The Root Cause of Neck Pain
Diagnosing the root cause of neck pain can involve physical exams, imaging tests, and medical history review. During a physical exam, a healthcare professional will evaluate the range of motion in the neck, check for any tender or swollen areas, and assess the strength and sensation in the arms and hands. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans can provide detailed information about the cervical spine and identify structural abnormalities.
Personalized Treatments for Neck Pain
Personalized treatments for neck pain consider the underlying cause, severity, duration of symptoms, and the patient’s medical history and lifestyle. Our treatment plans may include a combination of orthopedic and regenerative modalities, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, medication, and injections.
In some cases, regenerative therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may be recommended to help promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re experiencing neck pain, Summit Integrated Health can help. Our team of healthcare professionals is committed to providing comprehensive, personalized care to help our patients find relief and improve their quality of life. We also offer same-day appointments for various orthopedic and regenerative treatments, including chiropractic care and PRP therapy. Don’t let neck pain hold you back – contact us to schedule your consultation in Las Vegas.