Neck Pain

Neck pain can range in severity from mild to severe and debilitating. It’s often due to spinal misalignments that cause muscle compression or nerve impingement. At the office of David A. Wiles, MD, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, you receive a comprehensive diagnosis and advanced treatment for persistent neck pain. Call the office or book an appointment online today to learn more.

What causes neck pain?

Your neck has a delicate structure that makes it vulnerable to pain and injury. You may develop neck pain because of poor posture, repetitive movements, trauma, everyday wear-and-tear, or extended sitting. 

Misalignments in the thoracic or lower cervical spine vertebrae can also cause neck pain. Nerves that connect to these vertebrae become compressed or pinch, causing pain in your neck and shoulders. 

Some of the most common causes of neck pain include:

• Whiplash from a car accident
• Sports injuries, like a tackle
• A herniated disc in the cervical spine
• Holding your head in an irregular position, like hunching over a smartphone or tablet
• Forward head posture
• Degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis
• Bone spurs

If you have an acute case of neck pain from sleeping in a funny position, icing and over-the-counter medications may help you find relief. But persistent neck pain may require medical intervention. 

What symptoms accompany neck pain?

Neck pain often occurs in conjunction with other symptoms, such as: 

• Reduced range of motion
• Headaches
• Weakness or pain in the arms
• Upper back pain
• Muscle spasms

Dr. Wiles evaluates your neck pain and accompanying symptoms to determine the cause. He may order imaging tests like X-rays or magnetic reasoning imaging (MRIs) to inform his diagnosis. 

How do you treat neck pain?

Dr. Wiles customizes your treatment plan according to the reasons for your neck pain. This treatment plan may include medications, corticosteroid injections, and referrals to physical therapy. 

You may need surgery if you have structural problems like stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal) or a herniated disc. When surgery is necessary, Dr. Wiles uses minimally invasive surgical techniques to restore function and relieve pain. 

Medications, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections can help relieve pain and restore function but aren’t a cure for structural problems like stenosis or a herniated disc in the cervical spine.

Surgeries offered include anterior cervical discectomy to remove damaged disc material and bone spurs, as well as cervical laminoplasty to decompress the spinal cord.

If you’re suffering from persistent neck pain, call the office of David A. Wiles, MD, or book an appointment online today.