Modern-day lifestyles and activities we partake in are not kind to our well-being and our neck health. Sitting behind a desk all day can lead to lower back pain or aggravate an underlying neck condition. Neck pain is common and has a host of conditions that cause it. If the pain you are experiencing has become chronic, Livingston Samwell Institute for Pain Management has patient-tailored pain treatments to ensure relief. Some reasons for seeking prompt care include;
1. It could be a symptom of Herniated Cervical Discs
As age starts catching up with you, your spinal discs lose their flexibility, and the supporting ligaments become weak. As a result, a herniated disc might occur, exerting pressure on the nearby spinal nerves, which can result in neck pain. The pain might be accompanied by other symptoms, such as shoulder pain and pain that radiates from the arms, causing numbness. If a herniated disc issue is left untreated, you may need surgery to treat the condition.
2. Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease
As you age, the fluids that cushion your vertebral discs may dry out, causing the discs to absorb the shock as you move. This causes the discs to start rubbing on each other, reducing their strength and flexibility, which causes degeneration. The pain starts out as mild. However, as the condition progresses, you may start to experience neck stiffness and pain while doing some activities or in some positions. Earlier interventions and treatment will help curb the condition without surgical procedures.
3. Neck Arthritis
Severe neck aches in the early mornings and at the end of the day may be a symptom of neck osteoarthritis. The condition may be common in older adults. It is caused by the degeneration of the cartilage in the facet joints, which causes pain. Physical therapy combined with traction and low-impact exercises helps alleviate the pain.
4. Failed Treatment of a Neck Injury
Improper treatment of an earlier injury on the neck can cause persistent neck pain. The muscles, ligaments, and tendons around the injured area might have been damaged during previous treatment. You might experience inflammation and chronic pain if the treatment isn’t successful.
5. Cervical Foraminal Stenosis
Stenosis is a condition that occurs due to changes in neck joints that result from overuse or aging. With medicines, therapy, and exercise, it is possible to manage the condition. However, if left untreated, the condition can aggravate, and surgical inventions might be sought to provide relief from the pain.
Neck pain and stiffness can be uncomfortable and can be restricting the range of activities you can do. If your neck pain is temporary and has always resolved with no medication, you have nothing to worry about. This could be the aftermath of awkward neck positioning while sleeping or even watching. However, if the pain is intense and lingers for some time, limiting your daily operations, you may need urgent care. Severe neck pain may be an indication of an underlying medical issue. As such, strive to seek prompt care, as ignoring the pain will only worsen the condition.