Neck Pain

Most people have neck pain occasionally, but if your symptoms continue or keep you up at night, seek treatment. At his practice in Dallas and Carrollton, Texas, double board-certified pain management specialist Mohammed Shaikh, MD, and his team offer a wide range of minimally invasive treatments for neck pain, including therapeutic facet injections, medial branch blocks, and radiofrequency ablation. Call today to receive treatment for neck pain, or make your appointment online.

Should I be worried about neck pain?

Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal problem that affects the seven vertebrae between your shoulders and head (or the surrounding tissues). 

Often, neck pain improves with rest, ice, and activity modification. But if your symptoms keep you from work or other activities, it’s crucial to identify the source.

What are the symptoms of neck pain?

Common neck pain symptoms include:

• Headache
• Decreased range of motion
• Muscle tightness and spasms
• Pain that’s worse when you hold your head in certain positions
• Pain that keeps you up at night

If any of these symptoms last more than a few days, contact Dr. Shaikh and his team.

What causes neck pain?

Neck pain occurs for various reasons, including: 

• Worn joints
• Nerve compression
• Strained muscles
• Injuries, such as whiplash

In some cases, neck pain happens because of an underlying health problem, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoporosis.

How is neck pain diagnosed?

Dr. Shaikh reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes an exam. He looks at your neck, checking for redness, bruising, or swelling, and gently presses on your neck and shoulders, looking for sensitive areas.

Next, Dr. Shaikh tests your ability to look up and down and turn your head from side to side. He also orders X-rays, a discogram, an MRI, or diagnostic injections to examine your vertebrae and intervertebral discs.

How is neck pain treated?

Dr. Shaikh and his team treat neck pain using a conservative and minimally invasive approach. They may recommend:

• Epidural steroid injections
• Therapeutic facet joint injections
• Medial branch blocks
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Spinal cord stimulation
• Selective nerve root blocks
• Peripheral nerve root stimulator
• Physical therapy
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

Depending on the cause of your neck pain, you might benefit from a combination of treatments.

Is there any way to prevent neck pain?

There are things you can do to reduce your risk of neck pain. 

Dr. Shaikh and his team recommend practicing good posture, exercising regularly, and sleeping in a healthy position. If you work at a computer or drive long distances, take frequent breaks to move around and stretch your neck and shoulders. 

Call the office near you today to explore the treatments for neck pain, or make your appointment online.