Neck pain is the third leading cause of pain affecting millions of Americans. Still, determining the best treatment plan for neck pain remains a mystery as most people remain silent about it. Most blame it on working on their computers for a long time, while others claim the pain is due to sleeping in an awkward position. Whatever the case, neck pain Spring Valley cases lasting more than three months shouldn’t be taken lightly as they can be symptoms of serious underlying conditions. Below is everything you need to know about neck pain.
The types of neck pain
Neck pain is categorized into two forms:
· Radicular pain
The pain emanates from the back of the head or down the arms. It occurs due to irritated nerves when the spinal disks in the neck area change, pushing against the nerve. When you have this problem, you will sense tingling sensations in your arm and muscles when reflexing:
· Axial pain
It occurs along the cervical spine and might spread to the shoulders
The causes of neck pain
You may develop neck pain due to the following:
1. Whiplash
If a person rummages into your car from behind, a collision with your head may occur. Eventually, your head may jerk forward and back again, causing injuries to your muscle and connective tissue. Afterward, you will experience painfully tense muscles, preventing you from moving your head for several days. If the symptoms don’t disappear after a few days, you might need medical help.
2. Cervical spine wear and tear
Neck pain can also occur if your spinal disks become flat and develop small bone spurs along the edges of the vertebral bodies. The condition is known as osteochondrosis. However, these changes rarely lead to neck pain, even if the changes prevent you from moving your neck.
3. Damaged and overused muscles
Sitting at your desk for prolonged periods, particularly in awkward positions, might cause your muscles to be tensed. If you are fond of tilting your head against your neck or performing activities that strain your neck, like painting the ceiling, you will eventually experience the pain.
4. Narrowed vertebral canal or slipped disk
Narrowed vertebral canal or leaky spinal disk tissues put pressure on the nerve root between your shoulder and arm. Nevertheless, a slipped disk might necessarily cause neck pain symptoms.
When to see a doctor for neck pain
Typically, neck pain caused by sleeping in an awkward position should subside within a few days. But if it goes beyond a week, you should consider seeing a doctor at Greenlight Chiropractic & Wellness Lab. Seek urgent medical attention if:
· You experience neck pain after an accident
· Have a stiff neck
· Lose bladder or bowel control
· The pain doesn’t subside regardless of whether you are resting or working
· Experience weight loss, fever, and chills
· Have nerve problems and signs of paralysis, including difficulty moving your fingers and arms
See a neck pain specialist for urgent relief
If you have neck pain lasting more than a week, seek medical intervention immediately. The causes vary, making your case unique. Book an appointment with your neck pain specialist to restore your quality of life.
