Treating Neck Injuries

Action packed not only describes the movies these days. With sports becoming more aggressive, and accidents at an all time high, neck injuries are treated more frequently. A restless night’s sleep will leave the occasional “crick” in the neck and working out may cause strained muscles. However, certain neck injuries don’t just go away after simple stretches but will actually cause damage to the nerves and spinal cord. These injuries become more difficult to diagnose and treat the more they affect the nervous system. At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, the physicians and medical staff know the complications with neck injuries and holistically diagnose and treat patients for a full recovery and a better quality of life.

If not treated immediately, neck injuries can cause a lifetime of difficulties that could lead to paralysis. Southwest Spine and Pain Center works vigorously to eliminate that as an option for their patients. The pain management specialists apply minimally invasive approaches to chronic neck pain and injury. Patients will have options for their neck problems such as clinical treatments (ie injections/medications), physical therapy, and strengthening exercises.

Whiplash is caused from a sudden trauma that forces hyperextension to a quick forward movement of the neck. Most often the result from a car accident or sports injury, whiplash can damage joints, nerve roots, and even the spinal cord. Symptoms of whiplash include pain, numbness and tingling down the arm, stiffness, and dizziness. Often times, patients who suffer from whiplash do not feel the affects immediately. They may have pain following days after the injury. Physical therapy, medication, and a neck brace are treatment options for this kind of neck trauma.

The second most common neck injuries that physicians see and treat are herniated discs. The bones in the spine protect the nerves from the brain. These bones are separated by discs that act as an extra protectant for the bones and nerves. If a disc is moved out of place, it is herniated, and immense pain and pressure is placed on the spinal nerves. Patients who have herniated discs have symptoms like weakness, numbness, and pins and needles down their arms. A herniated disc can be caused from lifting heavy loads that is too much pressure for the back. The physicians at Southwest Spine and Pain Center treat herniated discs frequently. Treatment usually involves physical therapy, but may end with surgery if the injury is severe enough.

High school and college sports are seeing an increase of neck injuries as their teams are becoming more competitive. If you or someone you know is involved with a high impact sport, make sure they are taking all the necessary precautions and wearing protective gear. Concussions and neck injuries can cause serious damage that could last a lifetime. Call and schedule an appointment with a physician at Southwest Spine and Pain Center to treat any kind of neck pain and/or injury!

If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!

The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.

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