Can Orthopedic Surgeons Relieve Neck Pain?
Persistent neck pain can be challenging to manage, whether the cause is an injury, poor posture, or an underlying medical condition. Neck pain can impact your quality of life, causing headaches and jaw pain and affecting your eyesight, sleep, and more. Chronic neck pain is, well, a real pain in the neck.
Orthopedic Health of Kansas City specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal pain, including conditions that affect the neck and cause discomfort and pain. But can orthopedic surgeons indeed provide relief from neck pain?
What’s Causing My Neck Pain?
Neck pain arises from various causes, ranging from muscle strain to structural problems. Muscle strain is one of the most common culprits, often resulting from poor posture, repetitive movements, or stress. In other cases, herniated discs or age-related wear and tear, such as cervical osteoarthritis, can lead to discomfort. Traumatic injuries like whiplash or conditions that compress nerves, such as spinal stenosis, also frequently contribute to neck pain. While minor cases may improve with rest and self-care, chronic or severe pain requires a doctor’s input.
Should I See an Orthopedic Surgeon for My Neck Pain?
Orthopedic surgeons are highly trained in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues, including complex neck conditions. Their approach often involves a combination of thorough diagnostic techniques, non-surgical therapies, and, when necessary, surgical interventions.
The first step in effective treatment is an accurate diagnosis. Orthopedic surgeons use advanced imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to visualize structural issues in the neck. They also conduct physical exams to evaluate range of motion, muscle strength, and pain points and may perform nerve studies to assess whether nerve compression is involved. This comprehensive evaluation allows them to identify the root cause of the pain and develop a tailored treatment plan.
For many patients, surgery is not the first option. Non-surgical treatments often prove highly effective. Physical therapy is a cornerstone of treatment, helping to strengthen the neck muscles, improve posture, and increase mobility.
Medications, such as anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants, can help alleviate symptoms. In some cases, corticosteroid injections reduce inflammation and provide significant pain relief. Lifestyle adjustments, such as ergonomic improvements and exercise regimens, are crucial in managing symptoms and preventing future issues.
What Happens if Neck Pain Goes Untreated?
Untreated neck pain often signals a more severe issue, such as herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, or nerve compression. Without treatment, these conditions can worsen, leading to severe symptoms like pain, numbness, or muscle weakness. Mild or intermittent pain can develop into chronic discomfort, adversely affecting both physical and mental health.
Chronic pain can result in anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Conditions like spinal stenosis may compress nerves, leading to permanent nerve damage and ongoing symptoms in the arms or shoulders.
Compensating for neck pain can cause poor posture and strain in other body areas, creating additional problems. Persistent neck pain can hinder daily activities, affecting productivity and overall life satisfaction. Delaying treatment can sometimes lead to the need for more invasive procedures, while early intervention with physical therapy or injections may help avoid surgery.
Expert Neck Pain Treatment in Kansas City
If you’re living with persistent neck pain, you don’t have to endure it alone. Orthopedic surgeons have the expertise to address the underlying causes of your discomfort, helping you regain mobility and improve your quality of life. Contact Orthopedic Health of Kansas City today to schedule a consultation.
