Neck Pain Treatment
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Neck pain is incredibly common, and if you’re among the estimated 10% of adults suffering neck pain at any given time, you understand how disruptive the condition can be.
Finding relief is important, and it’s a specialty of Sachida Manocha, M.D., of Interventional Pain Center in Worthington and Newark, Ohio.
If you’re ready to find lasting relief from neck pain, schedule a visit with Dr. Manocha today. Online scheduling makes it easy to set up your visit at any time of day or night, or you’re always welcome to contact the office by phone to check availability.
What is Neck Pain?
Your neck consists of the seven uppermost vertebrae that connect the base of your skull with your thoracic cage. A system of connective tissues, muscles, blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues also make up your neck. If any one of these components sustains damage or stress, neck pain can result.
Although a relatively small area of your body, your neck serves numerous important functions. Like the rest of your spine, your neck protects your spinal cord. It also supports the weight of your head and enables head movement. You use your neck countless times throughout each day, even though you may not think about this part of your body until you experience pain.
Another type of neck pain doesn’t originate in your neck, but instead comes from other structures like your heart or lungs. This type of pain is called referred pain.
What Causes Neck Pain?
Neck pain can have numerous causes, including:
Whiplash or traumatic injury
Cervical spondylosis
Headaches
Sprains and strains
Osteoporosis
Arthritis
Fibromyalgia
Herniated disc
This is in no way a comprehensive list.
Anything that causes strain or stress on your neck can lead to neck pain, whether the stress originates from inside or outside the body.
Neck Pain Treatment Options
How is Neck Pain Treated?
If neck pain is not debilitating and was not caused by trauma, the pain can typically be treated
with self-care including a short period of rest, ice or heat treatment, gentle stretches, and physical therapy.
If the pain is more severe, treatment may include facet joint injections, neuromodulation, or a pain pump implant.
Facet Joint Injections
Facet joint injections can provide both diagnostic and treatment benefits. Each connection of your cervical vertebra has two facet joints on the back side of your spine. The injections deliver a mix of anti-inflammatory medication and an anesthetic directly into the targeted facet joints.
A special X-ray used with a contrast dye helps Dr. Manocha “see” the placement of the needle, ensuring that the medication is delivered to the intended portion of your cervical spine. You’ll remain awake and alert throughout, giving Dr. Manocha feedback as each injection is administered.
If a facet joint injection brings immediate pain relief, that joint is identified as the source of your neck pain. In addition, the injections continue to relieve pain for a period of time afterward.
Neuromodulation
Neuromodulation techniques can involve electrical stimulation, chemical agents, or other methods to alter the function of neural circuits. These techniques are used to treat various neurological and psychiatric conditions, such as chronic pain, movement disorders (like Parkinson’s disease), epilepsy, depression, and more.
Pain Pump Implant
For some, a pain pump implant is a strong treatment option. The process involves placing a catheter in your spine that extends to an external pump. The apparatus delivers carefully controlled doses of medication to ease pain. A trial period allows both you and Dr. Manocha to evaluate how effective the treatment is before the device is permanently implanted.
Ready to Improve Your Quality of Life?
To learn more about neck pain treatment at Interventional Pain Center, and find your own customized treatment plan, book a visit with Dr. Manocha online or by phone.