Neck Pain Q & A

Why do I have neck pain?

Neck pain could be due to damaged soft tissues or vertebrae caused by:

• Muscle strains
• Bone spurs
• Osteoporosis
• Compressed nerves
• Herniated discs
• Whiplash injuries
• Muscle tension due to stress
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis

While most cases of neck pain are due to musculoskeletal problems, occasionally neck pain can be caused by serious conditions, such as cancer and meningitis, so it’s vital to get a valid diagnosis if you’re experiencing pain in your neck.

How is neck pain diagnosed?

An accurate diagnosis of what’s causing your neck pain is fundamental to ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment. Dr. Bedi carries out a physical exam after discussing your symptoms with you and reviewing your medical history. He checks for any signs of weakness or problems with the nerves in your neck and observes how well you can move your head.

The next stage is carrying out diagnostic imaging tests if Dr. Bedi needs to see the internal structures of your neck in more detail. X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI scan gives Dr. Bedi a clearer picture of any damage or degeneration in your neck.

What treatments are available for neck pain?

Over-the-counter pain medications can be helpful when your neck starts hurting, but are unlikely to resolve the cause of your pain. There are several vital structures in your neck, so it’s important to know why it’s hurting to prevent any worsening of your condition and avoid the possibility of paralysis.

Dr. Bedi can advise you on the treatment that’s likely to prove most beneficial after diagnosing the cause of your neck pain. Treatments start with conservative measures, such as:

• Physical therapy
• Medication
• Epidural steroid injections
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

If you need surgery for your neck pain, Dr. Bedi uses state-of-the-art technology and robotic-assisted surgery to carry out many of the delicate procedures that address the causes of neck pain. One such procedure is the anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), in which Dr. Bedi replaces damaged cervical discs between your vertebrae with artificial discs, then fuses the bones using a graft to ensure stability.

If lower back pain is affecting your life, call Camelback Spine Care today to schedule a consultation, or book an appointment online.