Chronic Neck Pain

Chronic neck pain can be a debilitating symptom with the potential of spreading throughout the rest of the body. There are a number of problems that can cause pain in the neck. Irritation of the nerve pathway may also trigger pain in the shoulders, back and other parts of the body. In best cases, neck pain will diminish in a couple days or weeks. Although, if the pain remains for months you should consult with your doctor and factor out conditions that may be causing it.

Neck Pain Symptoms:

• Pain that radiates down into the shoulders.
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness.
• Trouble with lifting objects
• Problems with walking and balance.
• Stiff neck.
• Sharp pain in at least one spot.
• Soreness or tenderness.

Top 3 Chronic Neck Pain Treatment Options at Apex:

Epidural steroid injections

Research on the outcomes of epidural steroid injections for chronic neck pain is limited. A review by independent experts systematically searched the professional literature for research supporting the use of epidural steroid injections for chronic neck pain. They found one published, clinical trial, which they judged to be of low quality. It showed a modest benefit.

Cervical Facet Injections

A cervical, thoracic or lumbar facet joint injection involves injecting a small amount of local anesthetic (numbing agent) and/or steroid medication, which can anesthetize the facet joints and block the pain. The pain relief from a facet joint injection is intended to help a patient better tolerate a physical therapy routine to rehabilitate his or her injury or back condition.

Medial Branch Block

A medial branch block is an injection of a strong local anesthetic on the medial branch nerves that supply the facet joints. The facet joints, also known as the zygapophysial joints, are part of the bony framework of the spine. They are small bony projections from one vertebra meeting with similar bony projections from the vertebra above or below. Sometimes, due to a variety of acute and chronic conditions, the facet joints can become inflamed. For lower back (lumbar) facet joints, the pattern of pain is usually an achiness in the low back, radiating across the lower back and slightly down the back of the buttocks and upper thighs. Usually, standing or bending backward worsens the pain. For neck (cervical) facet joints, the pattern of pain is an achiness in the neck, slight radiation across the neck and shoulders, and worsening symptoms with turning the head from side to side or looking up.