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Neck Pain
Neck Pain
The neck, or cervical spine, supports the head and allows full movement of the head and neck. It also protects the spinal cord from injury. The neck is made up of seven vertebrae, with intervertebral discs between them. The muscles in your upper back and shoulders attach to these bones, enabling movement.


Symptoms
Neck pain is typically self-limiting and improves with simple treatments, but it can become serious when certain symptoms occur.
Weakness
Suggests nerve compression, potentially leading to paralysis.
Numbness or Tingling
May indicate nerve pressure. Persistent numbness points to nerve damage.
Loss of Bladder and Bowel Control
Signals severe spinal cord or nerve root compression, requiring immediate surgery.
Persistent Pain with Movement
Pain lasting beyond a few days or worsening after injury may suggest a fracture.
Causes
Neck pain can be caused by various factors.
- Degeneration (Spondylosis): Wear and tear of the discs.
- Disc Prolapse: Herniated discs causing sharp arm pain or weakness.
- Inflammation: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Postural Causes: Prolonged unnatural neck positions, such as poor posture.
- Traumatic Injuries: From minor sprains to severe injuries like whiplash.
Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the risk of neck pain.
- Poorly Controlled Hypertension: Can lead to neck pain and other complications.
- Age: Degenerative changes are more common with ageing.
- Prolonged Poor Posture: Leads to strain on the neck muscles and vertebrae.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of neck pain is done through physical and imaging tests.
- X-rays: To detect fractures or misalignment.
- CT Scans: For detailed imaging of bones but less effective for soft tissues.
- MRI: Preferred for detailed imaging of discs, nerves, and the spinal cord.
Treatments Provided By Us
Surgical
- Spinal Fusion: Removal of the damaged disc and insertion of bone or a cage to relieve pressure, though it may increase stress on adjacent discs.
- Arthroplasty (Artificial Spinal Disc): Replacement of the damaged disc with an artificial one, preserving movement and reducing stress on adjacent vertebrae.
- Laminectomy/Laminoplasty: Removal of part of the bone from the back of the neck to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
- Facet Blocks and Radiofrequency Neurotomy: Minimally invasive procedures that use radiofrequency to reduce pain by targeting facet joints.
- Disc Nucleoplasty: A minimally invasive procedure using coblation technology to remove disc material and treat mild disc prolapse.
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Non-Surgical
- Rest and Use of a Collar: Using a cervical collar for a few days to limit neck movement.
- Simple Analgesia: Medications such as paracetamol, NSAIDs, or COX-2 inhibitors to relieve pain.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: To improve mobility and alleviate discomfort.
- Hot Packs: To provide pain relief and ease stiffness.
- Physiotherapy: Techniques such as traction and mobilisation to restore neck function.
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Rehabilitation
After treatment or surgery, rehabilitation is crucial for recovery.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises focusing on restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the neck.
- Gradual Return to Activity: Patients are advised to slowly reintroduce activities that involve neck movement.
- Pain management: Depending on the severity of the injury or surgery, pain medication may be prescribed during the initial recovery period.
Complications
If untreated, neck pain can lead to chronic problems.
- Chronic pain
- Limited mobility
- Permanent nerve damage
Prevention Methods
To prevent neck pain:
- Maintain good posture and ergonomic practices.
- Avoid prolonged unnatural positions.
- Strengthen neck and upper back muscles through regular exercises.
- Implement lifestyle changes to reduce strain and injury risk.
When To See A Doctor
A doctor should be consulted if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening. It is especially important to seek medical attention if there is weakness, numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or persistent pain following an injury.
Doctors In-Charge
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Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon