Non-Surgical Treatments for Neck Pain: What Are Your Options?

If you're dealing with neck pain, you might be worried that surgery is the only option for relief. Fortunately, there are many non-surgical treatment options available that can ease your discomfort. The key is to partner with a team of specialists who can accurately identify the cause of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan using advanced non-surgical techniques.

Pain Management

A pain management doctor addresses neck pain using non-surgical methods such as injections, nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation.

Injections

Injections for pain management offer a safe and effective way to achieve long-term relief without surgery. One of the most common types is an epidural steroid injection, which is often used for lower back pain but can also be beneficial for upper back and neck pain.

Nerve Blocks

Nerve blocks involve injecting an anesthetic near specific nerves to stop pain signals from reaching the brain. These injections are effective for treating pain caused by inflamed nerves and can also help identify the exact source of the discomfort.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation is a procedure that uses high-energy electromagnetic waves to apply heat and destroy nerves that transmit pain impulses. This treatment is often used for patients who have undergone injections and need additional pain relief.

Spinal Cord Stimulation

In a spinal cord stimulation procedure, mild electric pulses are used to interrupt pain signals traveling from the spinal cord to the brain. These pulses are generated in a small implanted device and delivered to a rich network of nerves near the spinal cord through thin wires.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapists are highly effective in treating neck pain caused by injuries or aging. They help strengthen the body to prevent future injuries and help increase range of motion. Physical therapy involves a combination of active and passive techniques to aid recovery and improve overall function.

Active Physical Therapy

During active physical therapy, individuals complete exercises to help them regain strength, flexibility, and mobility, as well as relieve pain. Patients use equipment such as exercise bikes, treadmills, and weights, as well as their own bodies to build strength.

Passive Physical Therapy

Passive therapy involves a physical therapist manipulating muscles and joints to help patients regain strength and range of motion.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractors provide a natural approach to healing without medications or surgery. They use their hands or special equipment to apply a controlled, sudden force to a joint. Chiropractors also use various manipulative techniques, hands-on muscle release techniques, and rehabilitation instruction to help patients achieve their healing goals. In addition to treating neck pain, chiropractic care can alleviate persistent headaches, boost energy levels, improve posture, and promote overall well-being.

Finding Personalized Treatment for Neck Pain

Individualized treatment plans are crucial to addressing neck pain without the use of surgery. At The Spine & Sports Health Center, we’ll create a personalized plan to help relieve your pain so you can get back to your usual activities as quickly as possible. Contact us today for more information or to make an appointment with our expert team.