Cervical Pain Specialist

What causes cervical pain?

Cervical pain, simply known as neck pain, can be caused by a number of disorders and diseases. It can involve any of the tissues in the neck, and result in greater damage to the neck and spine if not treated. Common conditions known to cause neck pain include:

• Cervical sprain/strain
• Disc bulge/herniation
• Cervical radiculopathy
• Muscle spasms
• Facet impingement
• Degenerative-disc disease
• Arthritis
• Brachial-plexus injuries

The experienced therapists at Empire Physical Therapy & Athletic Rehabilitation, PC are familiar with these causes and their treatment options. No matter your hobby, sport, or reason for seeking treatment, their therapists can customize a program to meet your neck-pain needs and achieve success.

What is cervical disc disease?

The most common cause of neck pain is cervical-disk disease, which is caused by an abnormality in one or more discs (the cushions between each vertebrae). Degeneration of the disc due to wear and tear, or disc herniation – also called a slipped disc or a ruptured disc – can cause inflammation or muscle spasms in the neck.

What are some symptoms of cervical disc disease?

Neck pain is just that: pain or stiffness in the neck. Cervical disc disease, however, can also usually be characterized as general neck pain, or a stiff neck. Nerve pain in the form of sharp or electric-shock-like discomfort, usually in the shoulders and/or arms, can also be experienced when cervical-disc disease is present. A tingling sensation in the hands, fingers, or arms is also a symptom.

What kind of treatment helps cervical pain?

Physical therapy is one of the most common treatments used for chronic neck pain. Most physical therapy programs involve applying treatments to reduce pain and/or stiffness, at which point patients begin an exercise program of strengthening and stretching the neck.

Aerobic exercises, for instance, are often used to alleviate neck pain, as they increase blood flow to the muscles and soft tissues of the neck and upper back, helping to loosen the muscles and increase range of motion.

At Empire Physical Therapy & Athletic Rehabilitation, PC, therapists go over a series of slow range-of-motion exercises (up and down, side to side, ear to ear), encouraging strength and mobility both in and around the neck, reducing stress on the cervical spine. Other treatment methods include applying ice packs, heat therapy, massage, ultrasound, electrotherapy, and others.

Life takes a toll on the body, on some parts more than others. Your neck endures a great deal of stress; it’s important you take great care of it. Schedule an appointment at Empire Physical Therapy & Athletic Rehabilitation, PC if you are in or around New York City and have been experiencing cervical pain. Do not hesitate to call the office, or book an appointment by using the online scheduling tool.