Common Neck Pain and Treatment
If you’re suffering from neck pain, then you know just how debilitating it can be. Neck pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. It can significantly affect a person’s quality of life affecting everything from their ability to work and perform daily tasks to their overall mood and well-being. Chronic neck pain can also have a negative impact on one’s mental health, leading to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, seeking treatment from a physical therapist in Saint Louis can be a crucial step towards improving one’s quality of life and restoring their physical and mental well-being. Let’s explore some of the most common causes of neck pain and how our physical therapist in Saint Louis can help you find relief.
Types of Neck Pain
Axial Neck Pain:
Axial neck pain is the most common type of neck pain, which is characterized by pain and discomfort in the neck muscles, ligaments, and joints. It can result from poor posture, overuse, or injury, such as whiplash. Symptoms can include stiffness, soreness, and difficulty moving the neck.
Radicular Neck Pain:
Radicular neck pain is caused by nerve irritation or compression, which can result in sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the neck to the shoulders, arms, and fingers. It can be caused by a herniated disc, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis. Other symptoms can include tingling, numbness, and weakness in the affected areas.
Treatment Options
Medications:
Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, prescription medications such as muscle relaxants or nerve pain medications may be necessary.
Injections:
Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area. This type of treatment is typically reserved for severe cases of neck pain that do not respond to other forms of treatment.
Surgery:
Surgery is rarely necessary for neck pain and is typically only considered as a last resort when other treatments have failed. It may be necessary to remove a herniated disc or bone spur or to stabilize the neck with fusion surgery.
How can a physical therapist in St. Louis help?
Physical therapy is an effective treatment option for many people with neck pain. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals. Treatment may include exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles in your neck, as well as other areas of your body that may be contributing to your pain. In addition to exercises, your physical therapist may use manual therapy techniques such as massage, mobilization, or manipulation to help relieve pain and improve range of motion. They may also use modalities such as, electrical stimulation, or ultrasound to help reduce pain and inflammation.
What can you do at home?
There are several things you can do at home to help manage your neck pain. First, be sure to practice good posture throughout the day. This means keeping your head aligned with your spine and avoiding slouching or hunching over. You can also try gentle stretching exercises at home to help improve flexibility and relieve tension in your neck muscles. Moreover, it is important to stay active. Regular exercise can help improve your overall health and fitness and reduce your risk of developing chronic pain. Be sure to talk to your physical therapist about what types of exercises are safe and effective for your specific condition.
Say goodbye to neck pain with RPI’s expert care
At RPI, we understand how debilitating and frustrating neck pain can be, and we’re here to help. We offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your individual needs and goals, using the latest techniques and technologies to help you achieve your desired outcomes. So why wait? Contact RPI today to schedule your appointment and start your journey towards a healthier, happier you.