Neck pain is a common complaint that can significantly affect daily life, making it difficult to perform simple tasks or get a good night’s sleep. Understanding the root cause of neck pain is essential for effective treatment. At Nebraska Orthopaedic Physical Therapy, our expert physical therapists are dedicated to identifying the underlying neck pain causes and developing personalized treatment plans to help patients find relief and restore their quality of life.
Understanding Common Neck Pain Causes
Neck pain can arise from a variety of conditions, each with distinct causes and symptoms. By identifying the specific neck pain causes, our physical therapists can tailor treatment to address the root of the problem and provide long-term relief.
Cervical Radiculopathy
One of the more serious causes of neck pain is cervical radiculopathy, which occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine is compressed. This compression can lead to pain that radiates from the neck down into the shoulders, arms, and even hands. Patients may also experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected areas. Cervical radiculopathy is often associated with conditions such as herniated discs or bone spurs that put pressure on the nerve roots.
Facet Joint Dysfunction
Facet joint dysfunction is another common cause of neck pain, particularly in older adults. The facet joints are small joints located between the vertebrae in the spine. Over time, these joints can degenerate, leading to pain and stiffness in the neck. This condition often results in localized pain that can be exacerbated by certain movements, such as turning the head. Facet joint dysfunction can significantly impact a person’s ability to move freely and comfortably.
Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, the intervertebral discs in our spine undergo changes that can lead to degeneration. Degenerative disc disease is a condition in which the discs lose their flexibility, elasticity, and shock-absorbing capabilities. This degeneration can result in pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion in the neck. In some cases, the degenerative changes can also lead to other neck pain causes such as cervical radiculopathy or facet joint dysfunction.
Whiplash Associated Disorder
Whiplash-associated disorder is an injury that occurs when the neck is suddenly and forcefully hyperextended, often due to a car accident or a fall. This rapid movement can cause damage to the muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues in the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Symptoms of whiplash-associated disorder may not appear immediately after the injury, making it essential to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent long-term complications.
Postural Dysfunction
Poor posture is a common but often overlooked cause of neck pain. When a person consistently holds their head in an unnatural position, such as slouching or leaning forward while working at a computer, it can lead to strain on the neck muscles. Over time, this strain can cause pain and discomfort, contributing to a condition known as postural dysfunction. Addressing the causes of posture-related neck pain is crucial for preventing the pain from becoming a chronic issue.
How Physical Therapy at Nebraska Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy is designed to address the specific neck pain causes that are identified during a comprehensive evaluation. The first step in finding relief is to undergo a thorough assessment, during which a skilled physical therapist will evaluate your posture, range of motion, muscle strength, and overall spinal health. This evaluation helps to pinpoint the exact cause of your neck pain, whether it’s due to a condition like cervical radiculopathy or a more common issue such as muscle strain.
Once the underlying cause has been identified, the therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This plan may include exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the neck, improve posture, and increase mobility. For degenerative conditions like arthritis or disc disease, the goal is to manage symptoms and slow the condition’s progression.
By addressing the root cause of your pain, physical therapy at Nebraska Orthopaedic Physical Therapy can help you find lasting relief and prevent future episodes of neck pain. Whether your pain is due to poor posture, an injury, or an underlying condition, the right treatment can make all the difference in restoring your quality of life!
