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Neck Pain

What is it?

Neck pain, or cervicalgia, occurs in the neck area of the spine, which consists of the first seven vertebrae. It can be either acute or chronic and is often accompanied by symptoms such as stiffness, difficulty moving the head, headaches, dizziness, and numbness or weakness in the arms and hands.

Neck pain can have several common causes, including age-related wear and tear on the joints, leading to cervical osteoarthritis. Poor posture, such as slouching over a computer, can also cause tension in the neck muscles. Other frequent causes include injuries like whiplash from accidents or falls, and herniated discs in the neck that compress the nerves. Additionally, stress and anxiety can contribute to muscle tension in the neck.

Symptoms

The symptoms of neck pain can include stiffness in the neck, difficulty moving the head, and pain that may radiate down to the arms and hands. Other common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and numbness or weakness in the upper limbs. In severe cases, there may be intense pain that limits range of motion in the neck.

Treatment

The treatment for neck pain varies depending on the cause and severity of the symptoms.

• Conventional Treatments: Most cases of mild to moderate acute neck pain (cervicalgia) usually resolve within 2 to 3 weeks with conservative treatment. This approach includes applying local heat, progressive cervical mobilisation exercises, and stretches, as well as using anti-inflammatory medications and, in some cases, mild opioids. For myofascial pain, ultrasound-guided injections at specific pain points with local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory medications, or botulinum toxin can help facilitate a faster recovery.
• Interventional Treatments: In cases of severe and debilitating acute neck pain, especially when radiculopathy is present (pain radiating down the arm), more targeted treatment may be necessary from the outset. For chronic neck pain, which is often associated with wear and tear, herniated discs, or osteoarthritis in the neck structures, interventional treatments can provide significant pain relief.

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