Is Your Neck Pain A Serious Issue?

Neck pain is marked by feelings of discomfort anywhere in the cervical region – from the bottom of the head to the top of your shoulders. This pain can remain in certain problem areas, or it can begin to radiate through your upper back, shoulders, and arms. Sometimes it’s only a minor issue, and sometimes it feels completely immobilizing.

At Greater Austin Pain Center, we do whatever is necessary to get to the bottom of your neck pain and find a solution.

The neck contains a group of important muscles – the erector spinae, the levator scapulae, the splenius cervicis, the trapezius, and more. While these muscles usually work in harmony throughout your everyday life, certain factors can turn them into problem areas for neck pain. Muscular discomforts like strains and sprains can be common, especially for those who perform manual labor or sleep in uncomfortable positions. Issues like arthritis, herniated discs, whiplash-associated injuries, and sports injuries like stingers can also play a part in neck pain.

Causes

  • Irregularity in sleeping position
  • Poor posture
  • Trauma/injury
  • Aging/wear and tear

Symptoms

  • Dull aches and pains
  • Soreness/stiffness
  • Severe pain
  • Feelings of limited mobility
  • Muscular weakness
  • Numbness/tingling

Neck Pain Treatment in Austin, Kyle, Dripping Springs, and San marcos

The treatment for your neck pain will vary depending on the type and severity of your condition. Fortunately, many non-surgical methods are effective and readily available.

Bundles of nerves can cause pain in any region of the body, but this nerve activity can be halted by injections of medication. These nerve blocks can be an effective remedy for multiple types of pain. For neck pain, a cervical nerve block can be administered. Such a treatment is often used as a response to pain, but it can also preemptively be administered if a specialist deems it necessary.

Another injectable option is epidural injections of steroids. Many spinal conditions cause painful compression or pinching of nerves, but an epidural steroid goes right to the source of the problem. Due to the quick turnaround time of an epidural procedure, it has become a go-to option for neck and spine pain relief.

Radiofrequency nerve ablation is another alternative. As the name suggests, it is a procedure that uses radio waves. Electric currents are created by these waves, which in turn heat an area of nerve tissue to the point where it can no longer send pain signals. In essence, the currents “burn” (ablate) nerves in order to stop your pain. Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure, and like epidural injections, they occur with fluoroscopic x-ray guidance.

Woman at elevators in front of San Antonio Eye Specialists sign.

Am I At Risk Of Developing Neck Pain?

The neck can be exposed to many factors that accelerate discomfort. If you have habits of sleeping in awkward positions, routinely turning your head for a work/sports activity, or displaying poor posture, your neck could be feeling the effects. The experts at Greater Austin Pain Center are happy to discuss neck pain and potential treatments with you. We look forward to developing a course of action that gets you through life pain-free.

Testimonials

"I am so relieved I could cry! Finally a pain specialist who listens, cares, and wants to help! Dr. Alan Silberberg has given me so much hope! As someone who has seen pain specialists for decades in different states, this is where you want to come. You NEED him in your life! My only regret is not coming in sooner."

Sarah Jean C.

"The staff is very friendly and I was seen on time. The intake process was seamless and efficient. Dr. Jarzombeck is always very kind and thorough in her explanations. These folks are a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Greater Austin Pain Center and Dr. Jarzombeck!"

Kim D.

"Everyone is always very nice and courteous. Dr. Julia is amazing! He is friendly, kind and caring and so easy to talk with.  All the office staff I have had contact with has always been courteous and kind as well. Would highly recommend coming here!"

Lesley C.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of neck pain?

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Symptoms of neck pain will vary from patient to patient. However, neck pain can typically be identified by a discomfort or stiffness in the neck or the surrounding area. Additional symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

What are the most common causes of neck pain?

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There are several different causes of neck pain, but the most common cause of neck pain is tightness of the neck muscles. This is often caused by undue strains, which occur when a muscle is stretched beyond its normal limits. This is most often caused by poor posture, or because the neck lacks the proper amount of support.

Neck pain can also result from acute injuries, age-related degenerative changes, and from other medical conditions. Aside from the neck muscles, other common causes of neck pain include arthritis, nerve compression, and degenerative disc disease.

What is the fastest way to relieve neck pain in Austin?

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The fastest way to relieve neck pain at home is to apply either ice or heat, with a towel barrier, to the area where pain is experienced. Over the counter medications, taken per the bottle instructions, may also be beneficial in treating neck pain. It is recommended to avoid activities that strain the neck, such as rapid movements of the head, and positions that put undue stress on the neck. Controlled movements at the neck and shoulders may help alleviate the pain, as well as gentle stretching of the neck muscles.

When is it time to see a neck pain doctor in Austin?

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Generally speaking, you should consider seeking professional medical care if you experience throbbing pain or if pain persists despite taking conservative measures. If you lie down and the pain worsens or if you can’t sleep because of the pain, it’s likely time to see a physician for your neck pain.If you’re not experiencing a high level of pain, try to wait about a week to see if your condition improves. You should seek immediate medical care if it doesn't improve or if your condition worsens.

How can Greater Austin Pain Center treat my neck pain?

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At Greater Austin Pain Center, we will take a multidisciplinary approach to treating your neck pain and offer a wide range of treatment options depending on the type and severity of your condition. A quick consultation with one of our pain care specialists can determine the best treatment plans for your neck pain. Depending on the doctor’s recommendation, we can provide medication management, and minimally-invasive, non-surgical options—such as nerve blocks and steroid injections—as well as spinal cord stimulators, if necessary.

Lunch & Learn With Our Doctors

Curious about Spinal Cord and Peripheral Nerve Stimulation? Join our doctors for an in-person lunch and learn session to find out more about these treatments and ask any questions you may have. This event will be 12–1pm, sign up below to receive more details and RSVP.

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Treat Your Neck Pain at Greater Austin Pain Center

If you’re experiencing neck pain and discomfort, reach out to the Greater Austin Pain Center. Our pain specialists have experience in treating neck pain, and we’re ready to help provide you relief from your symptoms. For neck pain treatment in Austin, Kyle, Dripping Springs, and San Marcos and the surrounding areas, choose the experts at Greater Austin Pain Center.

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