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The head is supported by the lower neck and
upper back, and it is these areas that commonly cause neck pain. The top
three joints in the neck allow for most movement of your neck and head. The
lower joints in the neck and those of the upper back create a supportive
structure for your head to sit on. If this support system is affected
adversely, then the muscles in the area will tighten, leading to neck pain.
Neck pain may also arise from many other
physical and emotional health issues.
Treatment
Treatment of neck pain depends on the
cause. Many acute problems in the spine/neck generally resolve themselves in
as little as a few days to a few months. Persistent problems involving the
cervical spine should be evaluated by a health care practitioner. Common
treatments could include medication, body mechanics training, ergonomic
reform, or physical therapy.
Medication
Analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs
are recommended for pain. Other medications like muscle relaxants such as
orphenadrine or tzigandizine are more of help. Over the counter topical
creams and patches containing counterirritants are often used. However,
there is little evidence to support efficacy.
Conservative treatment
Mobilization and/or manipulation plus
exercise has been found to be beneficial in both acute and chronic
mechanical neck disorders.
Neck pain can be treated by numerous
approaches. They range in complexity depending on the severity and
underlying causes of the pain. Treatment is administered by chiropractic,
osteopathic and physical therapy. The benefit of mobilization and joint
manipulation alone is not clear.Neck pain can also be eased via many self
help techniques such as stretching and strength building exercises.
The use of heat or cold may provide short
term pain relief. Ultrasound has been shown not to be efficacious.
Surgery
Surgery is usually not indicated for most
mechanical causes of neck pain. If neck pain is the result of instability,
cancer, or other disease process surgery may be necessary. Surgery is
usually not indicated for "pinched nerves" or herniated discs unless there
is spinal cord compression or pain and disability have been protracted for
many months and refractory to conservative treatment such as physical
therapy.
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