Now Open and Accepting Patients in Jersey City

Education

Three Common Causes of Cervical Neck Pain

Cervical neck pain is one of the world’s most common complaints. While neck pain is often caused by poor posture or osteoarthritis, it may stem from a more serious problem. Most neck pain improves gradually with conservative treatments such as pain medication and physical therapy; however, depending on the cause and severity of the pain, steroid injections or surgery may be the best next step.

The cervical spine in the neck is comprised of seven vertebrae, which are discs filled with a gel-like substance for cushioning. The cervical discs allow your neck to bend forward and backward and turn side to side. Over time, these discs become worn, leading to a variety of problems.

Here are three of the most common causes of cervical neck pain.

Cervical degenerative disc disease

Cervical degenerative disc disease refers to wear and tear on the discs between the vertebrae in the neck, resulting in a loss of cushioning. Numerous factors, including smoking, aging, repetitive stress, and genetics, can accelerate the wearing out of the gel-like material in the discs.

Symptoms of cervical degenerative disc disease vary. Some people experience severe pain, while others have no pain at all. In general, symptoms include pain in the neck, back, arms, buttocks, or thighs; there may also be tingling or numbness in the legs. This diagnosis is usually reached based on medical history as well as physical and neurological examinations. Your doctor may want to confirm the diagnosis using x-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. Treatments include rest, medication, physical therapy, and, in some instances, surgery.

Stinger

“Stinger” is the term used to describe a type of injury to the neck and the symptoms that this injury causes. This injury is most common in football and other contact sports. A stinger may occur when the head and neck are forced toward the shoulder, causing nerve compression in the affected area. It may also occur when the shoulder bears a sudden downward force.

When nerves are suddenly impacted in this way, the injury can result in stinging or burning pain and, sometimes, neurological symptoms. The pain is usually short-lived (a matter of seconds), but occasionally, it may continue for hours or days. Because the pain may disappear quickly, many people don’t think that they need to take any further action for a stinger. However, it’s a good idea to see a doctor–you may be at greater risk of sustaining future injuries.

Cervical spinal stenosis

Affecting mostly adults over 50, cervical spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal begins to narrow. This narrowing can lead to pain as well as other issues. It is often the result of changes caused by arthritis. As the spinal canal narrows, the spaces between the vertebrae grow smaller, pinching the spinal cord or the surrounding nerves.

Symptoms include pain, tingling, or numbness in the arms, legs, or torso; you may also notice sciatica, foot drop, or difficulty standing or walking. Potential treatments include exercise, acupuncture, nonsteroidal pain medication, or, in some cases, minimally-invasive surgery.

Are you struggling with cervical neck pain symptoms? Don’t wait to seek relief: contact us for an appointment.