The neck, or cervical spine, is particularly vulnerable to pain because it’s a network of bones, nerves, and joints that regulates nerve communication. Dr. Carlos Casas at Comprehensive NeuroSpine will work with you to figure out the cause of your neck pain and what can be done to remedy it. Call now to schedule a consultation with Dr. Casas, or continue to read below to find out what your treatment options are.
Neck pain can come from you turning your head sharply or sleeping in the wrong position. It can also be the result of repetitive head motions, holding your head in an awkward position, injury after a fall or vehicular accident, or degenerative changes related to age.
In some cases, neurosurgeons are required to address complications surrounding neck injuries, as the incident might have affected your spinal cord and the proper functioning of your nervous system. You should contact Dr. Casas as soon as possible if you experience any of the following:
During your visit to Comprehensive NeuroSpine, Dr. Casas considers your medical history, symptoms, and overall physical health to make the most adequate diagnosis. More often than not, Dr. Casas needs to one or more of the following tests to make an appropriate diagnosis:
These imaging technologies allow Dr. Casas to find the exact source of your pain. From there, he can decide whether or not you need surgery.
Dr. Casas may prescribe medications to minimize pain and inflammation or muscle relaxants to loosen up the muscles in your neck. He can recommend cervical collars to provide spine support or trigger point injections of corticosteroids.
It should also be noted that quitting smoking and eating healthy can help minimize your neck pain. Dr. Casas attempts a conservative treatment plan for up to eight weeks before opting for surgery.
Dr. Casas recommends surgical treatments after conservative treatments have proven ineffective or if you experience neurological symptoms, such as difficulty walking.
In rare cases, he might recommend spinal fusion, a procedure which connects two or more vertebrae, using screws and plates.
Dr. Casas can address all of your back and neck issues. Call or go online to schedule an appointment at Comprehensive NeuroSpine. By addressing your pain, he can improve your quality of life.
