Neck pain seems like a feature of modern society, with 80% of people experiencing pain in their lifetime and up to 25% reporting that they deal with some level of neck discomfort monthly.
Persistent neck pain that is more than minor may indicate an underlying medical issue that requires attention.
The pain specialists at All American Medical are committed to offering neck pain treatments that effectively and naturally relieve discomfort without invasive procedures.
What are the Causes of Neck Pain?
The most common cause of chronic neck pain is the degeneration of the discs of the first seven vertebrae, but neck problems can stem from a wide range of causes.
Understanding these causes is crucial for effective treatment and relief. Some of these can include:
Poor Posture
Prolonged periods of sitting or standing with poor posture can strain the neck muscles and lead to pain. This is particularly common in individuals who spend long hours working at a desk or using electronic devices.
Muscle Strain
Overuse, such as from repetitive motions or sleeping in an awkward position, can cause neck muscle strain. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the neck.
Degenerative Conditions
Age-related wear and tear, such as cervical spondylosis or osteoarthritis, can cause neck pain and stiffness. These conditions occur when the cartilage and discs in the cervical spine begin to deteriorate, leading to inflammation and pain.
Herniated Disc
A bulging or ruptured disc in the cervical spine can compress nerves and cause neck pain, numbness, or weakness. This can occur due to age-related degeneration, injury, or excessive strain on the neck.
Whiplash
Sudden, forceful movements of the neck, often resulting from car accidents or sports injuries, can cause whiplash and neck pain.
Whiplash occurs when the head is rapidly thrown forward and then backward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
Pinched Nerve
Compression of the nerves in the neck can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the neck, shoulders, or arms. This can occur due to a herniated disc, bone spur, or other conditions that narrow the spaces where nerves pass through.
Stress and Emotional Tension
Stress and emotional tension can cause the neck muscles to tighten and spasm, leading to pain and stiffness. This is often referred to as tension neck syndrome.
Cervical Spinal Stenosis
Cervical spinal stenosis occurs when the neck’s spinal canal narrows, compressing the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause neck pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty with coordination.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Neck Pain
While some cases of neck pain may resolve on their own, it’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers
- Pain that persists for more than a week or two
- Pain accompanied by numbness, weakness, or tingling in the arms or hands
- Pain following a traumatic injury, such as a fall or car accident
- Pain associated with fever, headache, or unexplained weight loss
Regenerative Medicine For Treating Neck Pain
Our clinic offers advanced regenerative medicine treatments that leverage your body’s natural healing abilities to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation in the cervical spine. This can lead to improved pain management and long-lasting relief.
PRP Injections
Platelet rich plasma therapy, or PRP injections, is a highly effective treatment that involves injecting a concentrated form of the patient’s own platelets to accelerate healing in the neck.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy uses soundwaves to stimulate fibroblast and osteoblast cells which are critical to the body’s natural healing process. The stimulation causes these cells to work faster and better to repair damaged tissue.
Wharton’s Jelly
Wharton’s Jelly is abundant in mesenchymal stem cells. These cells transform into different types of cells, which can reduce inflammation and stimulate regeneration.
Physical Medicine Options For Neck Pain
At All American Medical, we offer a range of non-surgical treatments for neck pain and improve function, including:
Chiropractic Care
Our experienced chiropractors perform gentle adjustments and manipulations to realign the cervical spine, alleviate pain, and enhance mobility. Chiropractic care is especially beneficial for conditions such as cervical spondylosis, herniated discs, and whiplash.
Physical Therapy
Neck pain can significantly impact your daily life. Our physical therapists are here to help you find lasting relief with a customized physical therapy plan designed to address your specific needs.
Here’s how we do it:
Strength Training
We’ll guide you through targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting your neck and upper back. Stronger muscles improve posture, reduce strain, and prevent future discomfort.
Enhanced Flexibility
Gentle stretching techniques will increase your neck’s range of motion, allowing for smoother movement and alleviating stiffness. Improved flexibility can significantly benefit daily activities.
Pain Management Techniques
Our therapists utilize various modalities to manage your current pain. These may include manual therapy like massage and joint mobilization to address tension or the application of heat, cold, and electrical stimulation to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Why Choose All American Medical for Neck Pain Treatment?
We understand the frustration and limitations neck pain can cause, but surgery and pain medication are rarely the only remedies. All American Medical is committed to helping you naturally achieve a long-term recovery and a pain-free life.
Our doctors and physical therapists will also equip you with the knowledge and tools to actively reclaim your quality of life. By understanding your condition and its root causes, you will be better prepared to make informed decisions about your healthcare.
Get in touch with us today, and we will review your specific situation and discuss your options.