How do orthopedists diagnose neck pain. What treatments do orthopedists recommend for neck pain. When should you see an orthopedist for neck pain. How long does it take to recover from neck pain under orthopedic care.

The Expertise of Orthopedists in Treating Neck Pain

Orthopedists are widely regarded as the gold standard in neck pain treatment. Their specialized training in the musculoskeletal system makes them uniquely qualified to address the complex network of muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and bones that often contribute to neck discomfort.

These medical professionals, also known as orthopedic surgeons, undergo extensive education and training. Typically, an orthopedist completes up to 14 years of formal education, including:

• College
• Medical school
• Five years of postgraduate work, including residency at a major medical center
• Optional further specialization in fields such as pediatric orthopedics, sports medicine, or specific body areas like the spine or knee

Finding the Right Orthopedist for Your Neck Pain

To find an orthopedist specializing in neck pain, consider these steps:

1. Ask your primary care physician for a referral
2. Visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website
3. Use their searchable database to find a qualified specialist in your area

The Diagnostic Process: How Orthopedists Identify the Root Cause of Neck Pain

The cervical spine, or neck portion, is a complex structure comprising vertebrae, disks, ligaments, muscles, spinal cord, and nerves. Neck pain can result from injury or abnormality in any of these components. To accurately diagnose the cause of your neck pain, an orthopedist will typically follow these steps:

1. Comprehensive Medical History

The orthopedist will gather information about:

• Previous neck problems
• Other illnesses or injuries that might contribute to your current condition

2. Thorough Physical Examination

This may include:

• Evaluation of neck motion
• Assessment of pain severity

3. Neurological Testing

The orthopedist may test the function of nerves and muscles in your arms and legs to identify any nerve-related issues stemming from your neck.

4. Imaging and Laboratory Tests

Depending on the initial findings, the orthopedist may order:

• X-rays
• Other imaging procedures to evaluate bones, disks, spinal cord, nerve roots, and muscles in your neck
• Blood tests to rule out systemic conditions

Orthopedic Treatment Options for Neck Pain

Once the cause of your neck pain has been determined, your orthopedist will recommend a tailored treatment plan. This may include one or more of the following approaches:

1. Rest and Activity Modification

Often, neck pain can be significantly improved by resting for a few days and avoiding activities that strain neck muscles, joints, or ligaments. How long should you rest your neck? Typically, 1-3 days of relative rest is recommended, followed by gradual return to normal activities as tolerated.

2. Medication

Various medications may be prescribed to address different aspects of neck pain:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling
• Muscle relaxants to ease tension
• Pain relievers to manage discomfort

3. Immobilization

In some cases, your orthopedist might recommend wearing a neck brace for a certain period. This helps promote healing and prevent re-injury. How long should you wear a neck brace? The duration varies depending on the severity of your condition, but typically ranges from a few days to several weeks.

4. Physical Therapy and Exercise

Your orthopedist may refer you to a physical therapist who will design a customized program focusing on:

• Stretching exercises to improve flexibility
• Strengthening exercises to support the neck
• Techniques to prevent future neck problems

5. Surgery

In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. This is typically considered when:

• You’ve suffered a herniated disk in your spine
• There’s pressure on your spinal cord or nerve roots
• Conservative treatments have failed to provide relief

Common Causes of Neck Pain: Beyond Muscle Strain

While muscle strain is a frequent culprit, neck pain can arise from various conditions affecting the complex anatomy of the cervical region. Understanding these potential causes can help in seeking appropriate treatment:

1. Cervical Spondylosis

This age-related wear and tear of the cervical spine can lead to chronic neck pain. How does cervical spondylosis develop? Over time, the disks between vertebrae may dehydrate and shrink, leading to bone spurs and potential nerve compression.

2. Whiplash

Often associated with car accidents, whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked backward and then forward, straining the soft tissues of the neck. How long does whiplash pain last? While many cases improve within a few weeks, some individuals may experience chronic pain for months or even years.

3. Cervical Radiculopathy

This condition, often referred to as a “pinched nerve,” occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine becomes compressed or irritated. What are the symptoms of cervical radiculopathy? Patients may experience pain, numbness, or weakness radiating from the neck into the shoulder, arm, or hand.

4. Cervical Spinal Stenosis

This narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain and other neurological symptoms. Can cervical spinal stenosis be reversed? While the condition itself cannot be reversed, symptoms can often be managed effectively with appropriate treatment.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Neck Pain

While most cases of neck pain are not emergencies, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation. Seek immediate care if your neck pain is accompanied by:

• Severe headache
• Fever and neck stiffness
• Numbness, weakness, or tingling in arms or legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

These symptoms could indicate serious conditions such as meningitis, spinal cord compression, or other emergent issues requiring prompt intervention.

The Role of Lifestyle in Neck Pain Prevention and Management

While orthopedic treatment is crucial for addressing existing neck pain, lifestyle factors play a significant role in both prevention and long-term management. Consider incorporating these strategies into your daily routine:

1. Ergonomic Adjustments

Proper ergonomics can significantly reduce the risk of neck strain. How can you improve your workspace ergonomics?

• Position your computer monitor at eye level
• Use a chair that supports your lower back
• Keep your feet flat on the floor or use a footrest
• Take regular breaks to stretch and move around

2. Sleep Posture

Your sleeping position can impact neck health. What’s the best sleeping position for neck pain?

• Sleep on your back or side, not on your stomach
• Use a pillow that keeps your neck in a neutral position
• Consider using a cervical pillow for additional support

3. Regular Exercise

Strengthening the muscles that support your neck can help prevent pain. Which exercises are beneficial for neck health?

• Neck rotations and tilts
• Shoulder blade squeezes
• Chin tucks
• Low-impact aerobic activities like swimming or walking

4. Stress Management

Stress often manifests as physical tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders. How can you reduce stress-related neck tension?

• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Consider massage therapy or acupuncture
• Ensure adequate sleep and rest

Emerging Treatments in Orthopedic Care for Neck Pain

As medical science advances, new treatments for neck pain are being developed and refined. While these may not be appropriate for all patients, they represent exciting possibilities in orthopedic care:

1. Regenerative Medicine

This field includes treatments that aim to regenerate damaged tissues. What are some examples of regenerative treatments for neck pain?

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections
• Stem cell therapy
• Growth factor injections

2. Advanced Imaging-Guided Procedures

These techniques allow for more precise diagnosis and treatment. How do imaging-guided procedures improve neck pain treatment?

• Enable targeted injections to specific pain sites
• Allow for minimally invasive procedures
• Improve accuracy in diagnosing pain sources

3. Neuromodulation

This approach involves altering nerve activity through targeted delivery of electrical stimulation or chemical agents. What neuromodulation techniques are used for neck pain?

• Spinal cord stimulation
• Peripheral nerve stimulation
• Radiofrequency ablation

4. Wearable Technology

Advancements in wearable devices are offering new ways to monitor and manage neck pain. How can wearable technology help with neck pain?

• Track movement patterns and posture
• Provide real-time feedback for posture correction
• Monitor pain levels and activity to inform treatment decisions

While these emerging treatments show promise, it’s important to discuss their appropriateness with your orthopedist, as they may not be suitable for all patients or conditions.

The Importance of Follow-Up Care in Orthopedic Treatment

Successful treatment of neck pain doesn’t end with the initial intervention. Follow-up care plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal outcomes and preventing recurrence. Why is follow-up care so important in orthopedic treatment of neck pain?

1. Monitoring Progress

Regular check-ups allow your orthopedist to assess how well the treatment is working and make necessary adjustments. How often should you have follow-up appointments? This varies depending on your condition and treatment plan, but typically ranges from every few weeks to every few months initially.

2. Addressing Complications

Follow-up visits provide an opportunity to identify and address any complications or side effects of treatment promptly. What are some potential complications of neck pain treatment?

• Medication side effects
• Delayed healing
• Development of new symptoms

3. Adjusting Treatment Plans

As your condition evolves, your treatment plan may need to be modified. How might an orthopedist adjust your treatment plan?

• Changing medication dosages or types
• Modifying physical therapy exercises
• Recommending additional interventions if needed

4. Preventive Care

Follow-up care isn’t just about treating existing problems; it’s also about preventing future issues. What preventive measures might an orthopedist recommend?

• Exercises to maintain neck strength and flexibility
• Ergonomic adjustments to your home or work environment
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors

Remember, your active participation in follow-up care is essential for achieving the best possible outcomes in your neck pain treatment journey.

The Orthopedist — Neck Pain Specialist – Neck Pain Center

When it comes to treating neck pain, many patients consider orthopedic care the gold standard. That’s because orthopedists are specifically trained to deal with problems involving the musculoskeletal system — the network of muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and bones that support your body and allow movement — problems within the musculoskeletal system often cause neck pain.

At the Orthopedist’s Office: Specialized Training

Orthopedists, also referred to as orthopedic surgeons, are medical doctors with extensive training. A typical orthopedist has completed up to 14 years of formal education, including college, medical school, and five years of postgraduate work including residency at a major medical center, with the option for further specialization in a field like pediatric orthopedics, sports medicine, or a certain area of the body, such as the spine or knee.

To find an orthopedist, first ask your primary care physician for a referral. You also can go to, the Web site of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the professional association for orthopedists, where you will find a searchable database.

At the Orthopedist: Getting a Diagnosis

The cervical spine (the neck portion) is made up of vertebrae (bones), disks (shock-absorbing tissue between the vertebrae), ligaments (thick, band-like tissue that connects the bones), muscles, spinal cord, and nerves. Neck pain can result from injury to or an abnormality of any of these structures.

To diagnose the cause of your neck pain, your orthopedist will:

• Get your complete medical history, including any previous problems you’ve had with your neck and any other illnesses or injuries that might have contributed to your current situation
• Perform a physical examination that can include an evaluation of your neck motion and how severe your neck pain has become
• Possibly test the function of the nerves and muscles in your arms and legs to see if there are nerve problems related in your neck pain
• Consider ordering X-rays or other imaging procedures to evaluate the bones, disks, spinal cord, nerve roots, and muscles in your neck, as well as blood tests

At the Orthopedist: Getting Treatment

After the cause of your neck pain has been established, your orthopedist will recommend a course of treatment that may include:

• Rest. Much of the time, neck pain can be resolved, at least in part, just by resting for a few days and being careful not to engage in activities that strain neck muscles, joints, or ligaments.
• Medication. Drugs to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and relieve pain are also among the most effective treatments for neck pain.
• Immobilization. To help you heal and prevent re-injury, your orthopedist might recommend that you wear a neck brace for a certain amount of time.
• Physical therapy and exercise. Your orthopedist might refer you to a physical therapist who will customize a program of stretching and strengthening to relieve your neck pain and help prevent future problems.
• Surgery. In rare cases, the orthopedist might recommend surgery. This may be necessary if you’ve suffered a herniated disk (the disk protrudes outward) in your spine or if some other problem is putting pressure on your spinal cord or nerve roots.

To ensure that your neck condition is properly treated, it’s important that you follow your orthopedist’s instructions closely, resting and taking medication as recommended.

Stiff Neck & Shoulder Pain

Neck pain or stiffness is a very common symptom that most people experience at some point in their lives. In fact, a CDC survey found that 13.9% of men and 17.4% of women surveyed reported having had neck pain in just the last three months.

Neck pain can be dull or sharp, sudden or gradual, brief or chronic, and causes can vary widely from benign to emergency conditions. Whether you need a doctor or can treat your pain at home depends upon what happened just before the pain started and what other symptoms you may be having.

Common Causes of Neck Pain

The neck is an area where several important muscles, bones, blood vessels, and nerves are grouped closely together. Therefore, a sore neck can be caused by any injury or illness that affects one or more of those systems. Some common neck pain causes include:

In some cases, a painful or stiff neck can also be caused by a serious or life-threatening medical condition, such as heart attack, meningitis, or Lyme disease.

Treating Neck Pain at Home

In many cases, neck and shoulder pain is caused by a mild muscle strain or tension. If you don’t have other symptoms and you don’t remember any traumatic event that caused the pain to start, there’s a good chance this may be the source of the issue. Fortunately, this type of pain usually goes away within a few days with gentle stretching, massage, and applying ice or heat a few times a day. You should also check your posture and whether you’re sleeping in a position that puts pressure on your neck or shoulder.

When to See a Doctor for Neck Pain

See a doctor right away if your neck pain occurs after a traumatic accident or fall, such as a car accident, diving accident, or head injury. While some pain and stiffness is to be expected after an event like this, it’s critical to find out whether those symptoms are related to a more serious condition, such as a bone fracture. If your pain is not associated with a traumatic injury, watch for other symptoms. While many cases of neck pain or stiffness are nothing to worry about, some underlying causes for the pain may be very serious.

See a doctor if your pain:

• Is so bad it interferes with normal activities or sleeping

• Gets worse or lasts for several weeks despite home treatment

• Comes with tingling in any part of your body

• Comes with urinary or bowel incontinence

Get to an emergency room immediately if your neck pain occurs with symptoms such as:

If your neck pain comes with any of the emergency symptoms listed above, seek care at an emergency room right away. If you do not have any emergency symptoms, schedule a visit with your primary care physician, an orthopedist, or a neurologist. An orthopedist is a doctor who specializes in musculoskeletal conditions, including those that affect the spine. A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in nerve conditions. In some cases, they may work together.

See your primary care physician if:

• You do not have any other symptoms aside from neck pain.

• You do not remember a specific event that triggered the pain. For example, you just woke up one day and it was there.

• Your insurance requires you to see your primary care physician for a referral to a specialist.

See an orthopedist if:

• You feel or hear grinding, crunching or popping in your neck bones.

• Applying heat or ice provides temporary relief, but the pain keeps coming back.

• You remember a specific event when the pain started, such as stepping off a curb, lifting something, or bending over.

See a neurologist if:

• You feel a tingling sensation.

• You experience incontinence.

• You experience fatigue or “brain fog.”

• You feel shooting pains or numbness and you have already had another doctor rule out a potential heart problem.

Once you and your doctor have identified the problem, you may want to consider visiting a massage therapist or chiropractor as part of your treatment plan. Be prepared to answer questions about the type of pain you’re experiencing, what may have brought it on, what treatments you’ve already tried, and other questions to help give the practitioner a full understanding of your condition. These types of treatments will probably require multiple sessions, but may be effective at giving you relief.

Remember: Neck and shoulder pain or stiffness are common symptoms with a wide range of possible causes. When you experience this type of pain, it’s important to pay attention to what the rest of your body is telling you as well. When in doubt, see a doctor for a thorough examination, diagnosis and treatment plan.

Choosing a Doctor Who Treats Neck and Back Pain

There are as many choices as there are colors in the rainbow. There are a number of distinct physicians within the medical world (including medical doctors and doctors of osteopathy) that you have a choice from. Internists, family physicians, orthopaedists, neurosurgeons, spine surgeons, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists, neurologists, anesthesiologists, and even some psychiatrists that treat lower back disorders. There are places that have multiple specialists who treat these disorders as a group.

There are a number of distinct physicians within the medical world that you have a choice from. Photo Source: 123RF.com.There are many types of nonmedical practitioners to choose from, and they vary greatly even within their own specialty. You can go to a chiropractor, physical therapist, massage therapist, athletic trainer, acupuncturist, Feldenkrais or Pilates practitioner, personal trainer, or even an aroma therapist.

Internists and Family Practice Physicians

Internists and family physicians are the most typical entry into the world of medical treatment. The second most common reason for a visit to your primary care doctor is back pain. These individuals have one of the most difficult jobs. These doctors have to know about heart disease, circulation, lungs, liver, kidneys, diabetes, infectious disease, as well as spine. They have the hardest job in medicine.

These docs might initially use medications and activity restrictions. If their treatment is not effective, they might refer to a physical therapist. Some may refer to chiropractors. Osteopaths may treat the problem themselves with manipulation and muscle techniques. No matter to which you go, if the problem is resolved, obviously there is no further need of treatment.

Physician Specialists

• The physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) doctor has a four-year residency after medical school that is different from the orthopaedist, spine surgeon, or neurosurgeon. They are not surgeons and are given a comprehensive education in spinal disorders. These doctors can specialize in nonsurgical treatment of the back. Many perform EMGs that are electrical nerve diagnostic tests to help understand the source of nerve pain. Others have taken fellowships in interventional spinal injections to complement their treatment programs. These individuals are a good choice for initial treatment.

• The neurologist also can have an excellent understanding of spinal disorders. They have a four-year post-medical school residency. Most specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders of which spinal disorders are a component. Some can have extensive training in spinal biomechanics, and many gain this knowledge in their practice. They are the true experts in diagnosing specific nerve disorders such as peripheral neuropathy and multiple sclerosis. They specialize in EMGs. Most times, you would be referred to this specialist by your family doctor or specialist.

• The rheumatologist is another choice as a treating physician. He or she is a specialist in joint disorders that include the spine. They first do a residency in internal medicine and then do a fellowship in rheumatology. These are the true specialists in autoimmune joint disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and SLE (lupus) among others. Again, you normally would see this specialist by referral from another physician.

• Doctors of osteopathy are probably one of the most misunderstood of all the physician groups. They are trained in in anatomy, physiology, and pathology in osteopathic schools exactly the same as in medical schools. After graduation, many take residencies in the medical world, and some take osteopathic residencies. In general, they are essentially medical doctors with the initials DO (doctor of osteopathy) instead of MD. All are trained in osteopathic manipulation, but many don’t use this form of therapy in their practice. Many are specialists after taking a residency such as PM&R, neurology, or orthopaedics. Many are a good first choice for back care.

Physical Therapists

The physical therapist spends four to six years in college before getting a bachelor’s or master’s degree in PT. These individuals are very well trained in anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise therapy. They have therapeutic machines at their disposal to reduce swelling and promote healing. Some therapists strictly specialize in spinal rehabilitation, and others are generalists treating all joints in the body, as well as stroke patients and cardiac rehabilitation.

They are the experts in looking at the body for injuries and developing a treatment protocol to help heal and compensate for injury. They are the mainstays for many physicians to treat the lumbar spine.

Personal Trainers

If personal trainers have been through an athletic training degree, they are normally well educated about the body. They have not had formal diagnosis courses, but if something is painful, most will avoid that activity. Many are great at core training; the training of the muscles around your “core.”

Donald S. Corenman, MD, DC is a practicing orthopaedic spine surgeon and chiropractor in Vail, CO and the author of Everything You Wanted to Know About The Back, a consumer’s guide to the diagnosis and treatment of lower back pain. Click here for more information about the book.

What is an Otolaryngologist – Head and Neck Surgeon?

Insight into ear, nose, and throat specialists

Otolaryngology (pronounced oh/toe/lair/in/goll/oh/jee) is the oldest medical specialty in the United States. Otolaryngologists are physicians trained in the medical and surgical management and treatment of patients with diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT), and related structures of the head and neck. They are commonly referred to as ENT physicians.

Their special skills include diagnosing and managing diseases of the sinuses, larynx (voice box), oral cavity, and upper pharynx (mouth and throat), as well as structures of the neck and face. Otolaryngologists diagnose, treat, and manage specialty-specific disorders as well as many primary care problems in both children and adults.

What Do Otolarygologists Treat?

The Ears-Hearing loss affects one in ten North Americans. The unique domain of otolaryngologists is the treatment of ear disorders. They are trained in both the medical and surgical treatment of hearing, ear infections, balance disorders, ear noise (tinnitus), nerve pain, and facial and cranial nerve disorders. Otolaryngologists also manage congenital (birth) disorders of the outer and inner ear.

The Nose-About 35 million people develop chronic sinusitis each year, making it one of the most common health complaints in America. Care of the nasal cavity and sinuses is one of the primary skills of otolaryngologists. Management of the nasal area includes allergies and sense of smell. Breathing through, and the appearance of, the nose are also part of otolaryngologists’ expertise.

The Throat-Communicating (speech and singing) and eating a meal all involve this vital area. Also specific to otolaryngologists is expertise in managing diseases of the larynx (voice box) and the upper aero-digestive tract or esophagus, including voice and swallowing disorders.

The Head and Neck-This center of the body includes the important nerves that control sight, smell, hearing, and the face. In the head and neck area, otolaryngologists are trained to treat infectious diseases, both benign and malignant (cancerous) tumors, facial trauma, and deformities of the face. They perform both cosmetic plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Training and Patient Care

Otolaryngologists are ready to start practicing after completing up to 15 years of college and post-graduate training. To qualify for certification by the American Board of Otolaryngology, an applicant must first complete college, medical school (usually four years), and at least five years of specialty training. Next, the physician must pass the American Board of Otolaryngology examination. In addition, some otolaryngologists pursue a one- or two- year fellowship for more extensive training in one of seven subspecialty areas.

These subspeciality areas are pediatric otolaryngology (children), otology/neurotology (ears, balance, and tinnitus), allergy, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, head and neck, laryngology (throat), and rhinology (nose). Some otolaryngologists limit their practices to one of these seven areas.

What makes otolaryngologists the most appropriate physicians to treat disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck?

These specialists differ from many physicians in that they are trained in both medicine and surgery. Otolaryngologists do not need to refer patients to other physicians when ear, nose, throat, or head/neck surgery is needed and, therefore, can offer the most appropriate care for each individual patient.

Diagnosis and Treatment in Seven Areas of Expertise

Otology/Neurotology: diseases of the ear, including trauma (injury), cancer, and nerve pathway disorders, which affect hearing and balance.

Examples: ear infection; swimmer’s ear; hearing loss; ear, face, or neck pain; dizziness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

Pediatric Otolaryngology: diseases in children with special ENT problems including birth defects in the head and neck and developmental delays.

Examples: ear infection (otitis media), tonsil and adenoid infection, airway problems, Down’s syndrome, asthma and allergy/sinus disease.

Head and Neck: cancerous and noncancerous tumors in the head and neck, including the thyroid and parathyroid.

Examples: lump in the neck or thyroid, cancer of the voice box.

Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: cosmetic, functional, and reconstructive surgical treatment of abnormalities of the face and neck.

Examples: deviated septum, rhinoplasty (nose), face lift, cleft palate, drooping eyelids, hair loss.

Rhinology: disorders of the nose and sinuses.

Examples: sinus disorder, nose bleed, stuffy nose, loss of smell.

Laryngology: disorders of the throat, including voice and swallowing problems.

Examples: sore throat, hoarseness, swallowing disorder, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Allergy: treatment by medication, immunotherapy (allergy shots) and/or avoidance of pollen, dust, mold, food, and other sensitivities that affect the ear, nose, and throat.

Examples: hay fever, seasonal and perennial rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, laryngitis, sore throat, otitis media, dizziness.

Neck pain – Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

Your doctor will take a medical history and do an exam. He or she will check for tenderness, numbness and muscle weakness, as well as see how far you can move your head forward, backward and side to side.

Imaging tests

Your doctor might order imaging tests to get a better picture of the cause of your neck pain. Examples include:

• X-rays. X-rays can reveal areas in your neck where your nerves or spinal cord might be pinched by bone spurs or other degenerative changes.
• CT scan. CT scans combine X-ray images taken from many different directions to produce detailed cross-sectional views of the internal structures of your neck.
• MRI. MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to create detailed images of bones and soft tissues, including the spinal cord and the nerves coming from the spinal cord.

It’s possible to have X-ray or MRI evidence of structural problems in your neck without having symptoms. Imaging studies are best used as an adjunct to a careful history and physical exam to determine the cause of your pain.

Other tests

• Electromyography (EMG). If your doctor suspects your neck pain might be related to a pinched nerve, he or she might suggest an EMG. It involves inserting fine needles through your skin into a muscle and performing tests to measure the speed of nerve conduction to determine whether specific nerves are functioning properly.
• Blood tests. Blood tests can sometimes provide evidence of inflammatory or infectious conditions that might be causing or contributing to your neck pain.

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Treatment

The most common types of mild to moderate neck pain usually respond well to self-care within two or three weeks. If neck pain persists, your doctor might recommend other treatments.

Medications

Your doctor might prescribe stronger pain medicine than what you can get over-the-counter, as well as muscle relaxants and tricyclic antidepressants for pain relief.

Therapy

• Physical therapy. A physical therapist can teach you correct posture, alignment and neck-strengthening exercises, and can use heat, ice, electrical stimulation and other measures to help ease your pain and prevent a recurrence.
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Electrodes placed on your skin near the painful areas deliver tiny electrical impulses that may relieve pain.
• Traction. Traction uses weights, pulleys or an air bladder to gently stretch your neck. This therapy, under supervision of a medical professional and physical therapist, may provide relief of some neck pain, especially pain related to nerve root irritation.
• Short-term immobilization. A soft collar that supports your neck may help relieve pain by taking pressure off the structures in your neck. However, if used for more than three hours at a time or for more than one to two weeks, a collar might do more harm than good.

Surgical and other procedures

• Steroid injections. Your doctor might inject corticosteroid medications near the nerve roots, into the small facet joints in the bones of the cervical spine or into the muscles in your neck to help with pain. Numbing medications, such as lidocaine, also can be injected to relieve your neck pain.
• Surgery. Rarely needed for neck pain, surgery might be an option for relieving nerve root or spinal cord compression.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Self-care measures you can try to relieve neck pain include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers. Try over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), naproxen sodium (Aleve) and acetaminophen (Tylenol, others).
• Alternate heat and cold. Reduce inflammation by applying cold, such as an ice pack or ice wrapped in a towel, for up to 20 minutes several times a day. Or alternate the cold treatment with heat. Try taking a warm shower or using a heating pad on the low setting.
• Home exercises. Once the worst of your pain has subsided, begin gentle stretching exercises daily. Your doctor or a physical therapist can instruct you in the proper technique. First warm your neck and back with a heating pad or in the shower or bath. Then gently tilt, bend and rotate your neck.

Alternative medicine

Talk to your doctor if you’re interested in trying alternative treatments for your neck pain. Your doctor can discuss the benefits and risks. Alternative treatments include:

• Acupuncture. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into various points on your body. Studies have found that acupuncture may be helpful for many types of pain. But studies in neck pain have been mixed. For best results, you may need to undergo several acupuncture sessions. Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a certified practitioner using sterile needles.
• Chiropractic. Performed mainly on the spine, a chiropractic adjustment applies a controlled, abrupt force to a joint. Chiropractic treatments to the neck can provide short-term pain relief, and, for many people, carry minimal risks.
• Massage. During a massage, a trained practitioner manipulates the muscles in your neck with his or her hands. Little scientific evidence exists to support massage in people with neck pain, though it may provide relief when combined with your doctor’s recommended treatments.

Preparing for your appointment

You might initially contact your family doctor about your neck pain, and he or she may refer you to:

• A doctor who specializes in nonoperative treatment of musculoskeletal conditions (physical medicine and rehabilitation)
• A doctor who specializes in arthritis and other diseases that affect the joints (rheumatologist)
• A doctor who specializes in treating nerve-related disorders (neurologist)
• A doctor who operates on bones and joints (orthopedic surgeon)

What you can do

Before your appointment, you may want to write a list of answers to the following questions:

• When did your symptoms begin?
• Have you ever injured your neck? If so, when did the injury occur?
• Do any particular neck movements improve or worsen the pain?
• What medications and supplements do you take regularly?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor might ask some of the following questions:

• Where exactly does your pain occur?
• Is the pain dull, sharp or shooting?
• Do you have numbness or weakness?
• Does the pain radiate into your arm?
• Is the pain made worse by straining, coughing or sneezing?
• Do you have other physical problems?

July 31, 2020

Show references

1. Neck pain. American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/Practice/Clinical/Patients/Diseases_And_Conditions/Neck_Pain/. Accessed June 11, 2015.
2. Chronic neck pain tip sheet. American Osteopathic Association. tps://www.osteopathic.org/search/Pages/results.aspx?k=Chronic neck pain. Accessed June 11, 2015.
3. Isaac Z. Evaluation of the patient with neck pain and cervical spine disorders. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed June 11, 2015.
4. Isaac Z. Treatment of neck pain. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed June 11, 2015.
5. Chiropractic and neck pain. American Chiropractic Association. https://www.acatoday.org/content_css.cfm?CID=2430. Accessed June 11, 2015.
6. Neck pain. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00231. Accessed June 11, 2015.

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Neck pain: Symptom When to see a doctor

Neck pain caused by muscle tension or strain usually goes away on its own within a few days and needs only conservative treatment at the most. Neck pain that continues longer than several weeks usually will still respond to exercise, stretching, physical therapy, massage and watchful waiting, but steroid injections or even surgery are occasionally indicated.

To help relieve discomfort, try these self-care tips:

• Ice or heat. Apply an ice pack or bag of frozen peas to your neck for 15 minutes three or more times a day. Taking a hot shower or bath can help relax strained muscles.
• Stretching. Stretch your neck muscles by turning your neck gently from side to side and up and down.
• Massage. Rubbing the sore places in your neck can help relieve muscle spasms.
• Good posture. Practice good posture, especially if you sit at a computer all day. Keep your back supported, and make sure that your computer monitor is at eye level.

Schedule an office visit

Call your doctor if you have neck pain that:

• Worsens in spite of self-care
• Persists after several weeks of self-care
• Radiates down your arms or legs
• Is accompanied by headache, numbness or tingling

Seek emergency medical care

Call 911 or your local emergency number or have someone drive you to the emergency room if you have severe neck pain that’s associated with:

• Traumatic injury. Examples include car collisions, diving accidents or falls.
• Muscle weakness. Weakness in an arm or leg or trouble walking may be a sign of a more serious problem.
• High fever. If you have severe neck pain with a high fever, you might have meningitis, an infection of the membrane covering your spinal cord and brain.

Sept. 01, 2020

Show references

1. Neck pain. American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/Practice/Clinical/Patients/Diseases_And_Conditions/Neck_Pain/. Accessed June 11, 2015.
2. Chronic neck pain tip sheet. American Osteopathic Association. tps://www.osteopathic.org/search/Pages/results.aspx?k=Chronic neck pain. Accessed June 11, 2015.
3. Isaac Z. Evaluation of the patient with neck pain and cervical spine disorders. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed June 11, 2015.
4. Chiropractic and neck pain. American Chiropractic Association. https://www.acatoday.org/content_css.cfm?CID=2430. Accessed June 11, 2015.
5. Neck pain. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00231. Accessed June 11, 2015.
6. Isaac Z. Treatment of neck pain. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed June 11, 2015.

Products and Services

1. Book: Back and Neck Health
2. Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to Pain Relief

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Otolaryngologists: Ear, Nose, Throat Doctors

If you have a health problem with your head or neck, your doctor might recommend that you see an otolaryngologist. That’s someone who treats issues in your ears, nose, or throat as well as related areas in your head and neck. They’re called ENT’s for short.

In the 19^th century, doctors figured out that the ears, nose, and throat are closely connected by a system of tubes and passages. They made special tools to take a closer look at those areas and came up with ways to treat problems. A new medical specialty was born.

What Conditions Do Otolaryngologists Treat?

ENT’s can do surgery and treat many different medical conditions. You would see one if you have a problem involving:

• An ear condition, such as an infection, hearing loss, or trouble with balance
• Nose and nasal issues like allergies, sinusitis, or growths
• Throat problems like tonsillitis, difficulty swallowing, and voice issues
• Sleep trouble like snoring or obstructive sleep apnea, in which your airway is narrow or blocked and it interrupts your breathing while you sleep
• Infections or tumors (cancerous or not) of your head or neck

Some areas of your head are treated by other kinds of doctors. For example, neurologists deal with problems with your brain or nervous system, and ophthalmologists care for your eyes and vision.

How Are ENT Doctors Trained?

Otolaryngologists go to 4 years of medical school. They then have at least 5 years of special training. Finally, they need to pass an exam to be certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology.

Some also get 1 or 2 years of training in a subspecialty:

• Allergy: These doctors treat environmental allergies (like pollen or pet dander) with medicine or a series of shots called immunology. They also can help you find out if you have a food allergy.
• Facial and reconstructive surgery:These doctors do cosmetic surgery like face lifts and nose jobs. They also help people whose looks have been changed by an accident or who were born with issues that need to be fixed.
• Head and neck:If you have a tumor in your nose, sinuses, mouth, throat, voice box, or upper esophagus, this kind of specialist can help you.
• Laryngology:These doctors treat diseases and injuries that affect your voice box (larynx) and vocal cords. They also can help diagnose and treat swallowing problems.
• Otology and neurotology:If you have any kind of issue with your ears, these specialists can help. They treat conditions like infections, hearing loss, dizziness, and ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus).
• Pediatric ENT: Your child might not be able to tell their doctor what’s bothering them. Pediatric ENTs are specially trained to treat youngsters, and they have tools and exam rooms designed to put kids at ease.

Common problems include ear infections, tonsillitis, asthma, and allergies. Pediatric ENT’s also care for children with birth defects of the head and neck. They also can help figure out if your child has a speech or language problem.

• Rhinology: These doctors focus on your nose and sinuses. They treat sinusitis, nose bleeds, loss of smell, stuffy nose, and unusual growths.
• Sleep medicine: Some ENT’s specialize in sleep problems that involve your breathing, for instance snoring or sleep apnea. Your doctor may order a sleep study to see if you have trouble breathing at times during the night.

How Do I Find an Otolaryngologist?

Ask your primary care doctor or go to the American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery website to find one in your area. Look for one that specializes in your specific problem.

Cervical osteochondrosis: symptoms and treatment

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Cervical osteochondrosis: symptoms and treatment

Rarely are people now not faced with the manifestations of this widespread disease: according to statistics, about 60% of the population in developed countries, to varying degrees, suffer from manifestations of osteochondrosis.The main reasons for such widespread use are sedentary work and the lack of movement of a modern person.

Earlier, cervical osteochondrosis in men usually manifested itself from 45-50 years old, in women – a little later – 50-55 years old. But now there is a rapid rejuvenation: a typical picture is noticeable signs of the disease in 30-year-olds, cases and the appearance of the first symptoms at 20 are not uncommon.

Read more …

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine: symptoms

In the early stages, the disease practically does not manifest painful symptoms: you may feel discomfort in the neck after heavy physical exertion or prolonged sitting in a tense position, after a sudden movement or bending heads.

The main symptoms are headache, dizziness and lack of coordination, slight crunching when moving the head, general weakness; less often there is weakness of the hands, numbness of the tongue and speech impairment, problems with breathing, vision, hearing, increased sweating, abnormally high blood pressure. The main zones are the back of the head, neck, collar zone. In most cases, only a few of the listed symptoms of the disease are simultaneously observed.

In general, the symptoms of osteochondrosis are not obvious, they are often masked by the use of painkillers.This is one of its dangers: most of the symptoms are possible with other pathologies, which complicates the diagnosis of cervical osteochondrosis.

Read more …

Symptoms in women

Features of the female body make it possible to detect signs of the disease at earlier stages, as they appear rather quickly, especially from 45 to 65 years old. In addition, there is a number of “reserve” symptoms, which are more often or more pronounced in women:

• sudden pressure surges
• cyanosis of the skin
• numbness of the skin, accompanied by tingling
• nausea

Stages of development of osteochondrosis

In the development of cervical osteochondrosis, it is customary to distinguish 4 stages.But this is a rather arbitrary division, since most of the symptoms of the disease can manifest themselves in other pathologies. In addition, the actual degree of tissue degradation of the cervical spine may not correspond to the externally manifested symptoms.

First stage (preclinical)

At the initial stage, symptoms are mild and are often attributed to stress or other illnesses. There is an unpleasant stiffness in the neck, pain with sudden movements or bending. At this stage, it is quite possible to get rid of the incipient osteochondrosis with the help of therapeutic exercises, or simply move more, adjust nutrition.

Second stage

The pain intensifies, becomes constant, with sharp turns or bends it is already strong. Severe headaches appear, the patient begins to tire quickly, becomes scattered, periodically parts of the face become numb.

Third stage

Formation of herniated discs often causes dizziness, weakness of the arms, pain radiates to the back of the head and arms, and is constantly felt in the shoulders.

Fourth stage

In the end, the intervertebral discs are destroyed, they are replaced by connective tissue.Nerves are pinched, which leads to difficulty in movement, acute pain, increased dizziness, and tinnitus.

Causes and risk factors

Oddly enough, the possibility of developing osteochondrosis in humans is due to one of its evolutionary advantages – upright posture: the vertebrae press on each other, and with age, the connective tissue degrades. As a consequence, this is an almost inevitable process in the elderly. But there are many factors that contribute to the earlier and more intensive development of cervical osteochondrosis:

• First of all, it is a sedentary and sedentary lifestyle, which is often observed in modern life (office workers, drivers and other “sedentary” specialties, TV, long hours at the computer), lack of physical activity
• Tense, unnatural postures during work: for example, at the computer, a person often leans forward, taking a tense posture
• Opposite reason – loads that are too high, unusual for a given person; but even trained athletes, such as weightlifters, are at risk;
• Any reasons that violate the natural posture of a person: uncomfortable shoes, especially with high heels, unsuccessful posture during sleep, flat feet, rheumatism, scoliosis;
• Overweight, which is often caused by poor nutrition
• Frequent stress, strong nervous tension, constant overwork
• Local hypothermia

Read more…

Why is cervical osteochondrosis dangerous?

There are many vital vessels, arteries, capillaries concentrated in the neck area, so any violations there can have unpleasant consequences, including oxygen starvation, hypertension, vegetative vascular dystonia.

Cervical osteochondrosis affects the segments of the spine that control the work of the shoulder and elbow joints, thyroid gland, hands and other organs. With osteochondrosis, if it is not treated, there is a high probability of pinching of the nerves, squeezing of blood vessels, which inevitably affects the work of other organs.

Which doctor to contact

Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are usually mild, especially at the initial stage, in addition, almost all of them are characteristic of other pathologies: in such conditions, it is best to contact a therapist who will analyze your complaints, conduct an examination and refer you to diagnostics and to a more highly specialized specialist – a neurologist, orthopedist.

Who will continue to carry out the treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the disorders detected during the diagnosis.For example, a hernia or disc displacement may require the assistance of a traumatologist. Massage and exercise therapy, physiotherapy are non-surgical methods of treatment, in severe cases, the patient is referred to a surgeon.

Diagnostics

Since the symptoms of osteochondrosis are mild and often intersect with other pathologies, it is better to conduct the initial examination with a therapist or another specialist – a neurologist, orthopedist. He will ask you about pain and other symptoms, check the mobility of the neck, skin condition, balance, reflexes.

If the primary diagnosis is “cervical osteochondrosis”, the doctor will refer you further for additional research. The most effective of these is MRI, followed by computed tomography. X-ray studies are much less effective in comparison with the first two, especially with advanced disease. The condition of the soft tissues is checked using ultrasound. If your doctor suspects damage to your blood vessels, you may be referred for a duplex scan of the vessels.

Since some of the symptoms overlap with signs of angina and coronary artery disease, you may need to consult a cardiologist who will refer you for an EKG and echocardiography.

How to treat cervical osteochondrosis

Real, stable success in the treatment of cervical osteochondrosis can be achieved only with an integrated approach, which includes drugs, massage of the collar zone, therapeutic exercises, physiotherapy. In severe cases, surgery may be required. Naturally, the patient must eliminate or minimize the factors that contribute to the development of the disease: move more, eat better, etc.

We strongly advise against resorting to self-medication, primarily due to the fact that the symptoms of osteochondrosis can mean a completely different disease: not only will the drugs you choose will not help in treatment, they can also harm.Even with painful exacerbations, do not rush to the pharmacy for painkillers – it is better to make an appointment with a doctor, and even better – do it in advance, at the first symptoms.

Relief of acute pain

Osteochondrosis, especially in the later stages, is accompanied by severe pain, therefore, the first task of the attending physician is to relieve your suffering. He will prescribe you pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamins, chondroprotectors to repair cartilage tissue, medicines to improve blood circulation and reduce muscle spasm.

In this article, we deliberately do not give the names of specific drugs – it is better to leave their choice to doctors, who will take into account all possible consequences and evaluate contraindications.

Therapeutic gymnastics for cervical osteochondrosis

The easiest and most affordable way, including at home, is medical gymnastics. At the same time, it is also quite effective, as it strengthens the neck muscles, restores blood circulation in damaged areas, and compensates for the lack of movement in everyday life.Physiotherapy can be supplemented with swimming, aqua gymnastics.

There are many methods, including the use of simulators: most of them do not require special equipment or any special conditions, but we advise you to contact the exercise therapy office, where you will be selected the most effective exercise complexes and conducted classes under the guidance of an experienced specialist.

More …

Correct and constant use of physiotherapeutic methods improves blood circulation in damaged areas, reduces inflammation and pain, slows down the process of ossification.

For osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, electrophoresis, magnetotherapy, laser therapy, shock wave therapy, therapeutic baths and showers, mud therapy and other methods are used.

Neck massage for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

With osteochondrosis, massage can be very effective: it improves blood circulation, reduces the likelihood of spasms by reducing muscle tone, relieves pain symptoms and improves the patient’s overall well-being.

But massage and manual therapy must be used with extreme caution, since an inept and rough effect on the diseased parts of the body can only harm.We strongly advise you to consult your doctor first.

Surgical treatment

In especially advanced cases, even surgical intervention is not excluded: narrowing of the lumen of the spinal column, the formation of herniated intervertebral discs, with spondylolisthesis.

The surgeon decides on the need and method of surgical intervention, he also determines the preparatory operations, the duration of the postoperative period and rehabilitation.

Possible complications and consequences

There are many nerve endings and blood vessels in the neck area that directly affect the work of other parts of the body: if cervical osteochondrosis is not treated, this can lead to an increase in many other diseases:

• Migraine – it is in the neck region that the vertebral artery delivers blood to the brain: even narrowing leads to severe headaches.
• Visual impairment – the carotid and vertebral arteries, which are responsible for supplying blood to the organs of vision, pass through the neck: compression of the nerve roots and blood vessels leads to a decrease in vision.

Read more …

Forecast

Cervical osteochondrosis is a disease that is unlikely to be completely cured, but using a variety of techniques, you can slow down the development of the disease and significantly facilitate the patient’s life. Naturally, with a neglected disease, it is impossible to make any firm predictions.

Prevention of cervical osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a disease, the negative impact of which, with proper and timely prevention, can be minimized. It is necessary to think about its prevention even in childhood: a violation of posture, flat feet in a child is a reason to consult a doctor for a diagnosis.

The basis for the prevention of osteochondrosis is a correct lifestyle: reasonable physical activity and periodic loads during sedentary work, healthy eating, control of body weight.

Read more …

Doctors

Experienced and qualified neurologists work in the Semashko Medical Center:

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Manual therapy of the cervical spine: prices, reviews

The most common disease of the cervical spine is osteochondrosis. Degenerative-dystrophic processes can be observed in young patients, which is associated with sedentary work, a sedentary lifestyle, hobby for gadgets associated with high loads on this department.Even in the early stages of the disease, it requires the timely intervention of a doctor, because the functions of the brain and the whole body largely depend on the condition of the neck.

Manual therapy of the cervical spine is one of the safest methods of treatment that can be used as an independent one or to supplement the main course (for example, medication). It is used for hernias, protrusion, osteochondrosis, spasm of the cervical muscles, pain associated with tension and in other cases.

Indications for treatment

Dysfunction of the cervical spine leads to the appearance of a number of nonspecific symptoms. You can go to a chiropractor if you have the following symptoms:

• spasms, increased tone of the muscles of the neck, shoulders;

• pain syndrome when turning the head and at rest;

• crunch in the neck when bending, turning the head;

• minor coordination disorders, dizziness;

• tinnitus, hearing impairment, distortion of sounds;

• persistent headaches;

• flies and nets before the eyes;

• decreased performance, fatigue;

• memory impairment, decreased concentration;

• sleep disturbances, drowsiness in the morning.

The first step may be an appeal to a general practitioner or neurologist. The chiropractor needs to provide the results of examinations, only after that he will be able to develop an individual treatment regimen. It is important to remember that ready-made solutions are not used here: each case is individual and requires a certain set of exposure techniques.

Procedure

The cervical vertebrae are more mobile and less.Their bone structures are thinner than those of the vertebrae of other departments. In addition, in this area are blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. Therefore, only an experienced qualified specialist can influence this department.

Neck chiropractic is a manual intervention. The set of specific techniques depends on the patient’s condition and disease. The session begins with assessing the condition of the vertebrae, conducting short tests, and determining muscle tone.Based on the information received, the doctor selects the techniques that will have the best therapeutic effect and will be comfortable and painless.

The duration of the session is from 10 to 30 minutes. The condition may require from 3 to 15–20 sessions, while the specialist will draw up and agree on a visit schedule. Usually, two visits a week are enough, less often procedures are carried out every other day. Younger patients usually require fewer sessions, which is associated with the relative strength of bone tissue, elasticity of ligaments and muscles.When working with elderly patients, an experienced chiropractor is especially careful to avoid injury and damage.

Effects of manual therapy of the cervical spine

The result of manual therapy of the neck is the anatomically correct position of the vertebrae, improved blood supply to tissues and the brain, normalization of vascular and muscle tone. With the help of this method, it is possible to improve the supply of tissues with oxygen and essential substances, prevent degenerative processes, improve mobility, and stop unpleasant symptoms.The pain syndrome disappears after the first sessions, and by the end of the course it is possible to register a persistent positive effect: relief of vestibular symptoms, normalization of hearing and vision, increased efficiency, improvement of cognitive processes.

Manual therapy as an additional method

If the disease is severely advanced or accompanied by concomitant pathologies, manual therapy of the cervical vertebrae can complement other methods of treatment. You can find out the condition, the degree of the disease (for example, with hernias) using X-ray methods, MRI.In some cases, laboratory diagnostics will be required in order to determine the inflammatory process, infections that can cause an illness.

Manual therapy can complement the course of restorative massage, medication, be carried out after surgical interventions (after complete healing of tissues and examination by a doctor).

For whom

is contraindicated

Manual influence on the cervical spine is not carried out in the presence of the following diseases:

• malignant tumors;

• tuberculosis;

• severe somatic diseases, exacerbation of chronic ailments;

• recent trauma, recent stroke or heart attack;

• mental illness;

• severe diseases of the heart and blood vessels;

• osteomyelitis;

• osteoporosis of the 3rd or 4th stage.

It is important to inform your doctor about your health condition. There are also relative contraindications, in which manual therapy is possible, the final decision on the need to use this method is made by a specialist.

Conditions of efficiency

In order for manual exposure to bring the desired results, it is important to comply with several conditions:

• contact only a reliable clinic: you must have a license to provide such services, it is advisable to first study the reviews;

• a chiropractor must have a higher medical education, as well as certificates and / or documents confirming the possession of the techniques of this method;

• provide the doctor with images, statements, results of diagnostics and medical reports if you have addressed other specialists with your disease before.

Manual therapy of the cervical spine should only be performed by a doctor. It is desirable that he be an orthopedic traumatologist or neurologist by basic education, because this direction is closely related to these specializations.

An effective correction is possible when the patient is relaxed. Therefore, it is important to choose a specialist whom you will trust, this is one of the important conditions.

The doctor will determine exactly what kind of violations he is dealing with.Reversibles are subject to relatively rapid correction. If you have chronic diseases that have been going on for a long time, it will take more time and effort.

Manual neck therapy in the Family Doctor clinic

Cervical spine manual therapy sessions are conducted by experienced specialists – manual therapists, neurologists, orthopedic traumatologists with appropriate training. We offer our patients professional diagnostics: modern equipment allows us to obtain accurate examination results in a short time.In each case, an individual therapy regimen is drawn up. Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment is carried out at each appointment – the doctor will definitely specify what results have already been achieved, how much the state of health has improved.

If you have diseases of the cervical spine or you observe symptoms characteristic of them, contact the Family Doctor clinic.

Make an appointment by calling the single contact center +7 (495) 775 75 66, through the on-line registration form and at the clinic’s registry.

Cost

doctor chiropractor

neurologist, chiropractor, reflexologist

traumatologist-orthopedist, chiropractor, leading specialist of the clinic

neurologist, chiropractor

90,000 Treatment of spondyloarthrosis of the cervical spine in St. Petersburg

Symptoms

The initial symptoms of spondyloarthrosis are mild and are manifested mainly by discomfort in the neck after sleep, as well as after a long stay in an uncomfortable position.Gradually progressive deformity of the joints causes compression of the vertebral nerve roots, vessels, vegetative plexuses, with the appearance of the following symptoms:

• Pain in the neck, head, shoulder girdle, arms, less often in the sternum.
• The appearance of specific sounds (crunching, clicking) when turning and tilting the head.
• Muscle spasm in the projection of the injured joint.
• Limited range of motion in the cervical spine.
• Visual and hearing impairment.
• Development of paresthesias – numbness of various parts of the neck, shoulder girdle, upper limbs.
• Vestibular disturbances: feeling of loss of balance, dizziness, tinnitus.

Stages of development of deforming spondyloarthrosis of the cervical spine

There are 4 stages in the development of spondyloarthrosis.

• Stage I. Dystrophy of the hyaline cartilage that covers the articular surfaces of the vertebrae begins. Symptoms are absent, sometimes with increased stress, the patient feels discomfort in the neck.
• Stage II. Due to a decrease in the production of articular fluid, the nutrition of the cartilage is disrupted, it begins to thin, the elasticity of the ligaments is weakened, and the range of motion in the affected cervical segment decreases. The patient develops a feeling of stiffness and mild soreness in the neck in the morning, which soon disappears.
• Stage III. Spondylolisthesis develops – one of the damaged vertebrae shifts back, osteophytes grow – spiny bone growths. Osteophytes narrow the intervertebral foramen, irritating the roots of the spinal nerves passing through them, while the patient experiences constant excruciating pain.
• IV stage. Complete destruction of cartilage, instead of which massive bone growths are found on the articular surfaces.

How to diagnose

Diagnostics is based on patient complaints, information about the course of the disease, clinical examination data with an assessment of neurological status, as well as the results of laboratory and instrumental examinations.

Radiography allows you to determine the state of the facet joints, if pronounced structural changes have already occurred in them: thinning of the cartilage, osteophytes, narrowing of the joint space.

Computed tomography (CT) is the most informative for detecting pathologies of hard tissues – bones and cartilage, fixes the initial signs of spondyloarthrosis.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveals the slightest changes in cartilage, bones, ligaments and vessels of the vertebral joints.

90,000 X-ray of the neck with functional tests

directions

The cervical spine, as a complex anatomical structure, is a combination of bones, blood vessels, muscles, ligaments, tendons and intervertebral discs.This is a very important part of the human body, because the spinal cord passes through the cervical region, as well as brain impulses that travel through the neck to the entire body. In addition, there are blood arteries nearby, which are responsible for the blood supply to the brain and other important systems and organs. The bone structure of the cervical spine is represented by seven vertebrae, which, together with the muscle corset, help to hold the head upright, turn it in different directions, and tilt the head. Therefore, any injuries, pathologies and injuries of the cervical spine lead to dysfunction not only directly to the neck itself and affect the limitation of its movement, but also affect the cerebral blood supply, the state of the central nervous system, etc.d.

Medical specialists

X-ray laboratory assistant

Currently, work is underway on the site to change the price list, check the current information by phone: 640-55-25 or leave a request, the operator will contact you.

Prices for services

• X-ray of the cervical spine in a direct posterior projection
  900a

• X-ray of the cervical spine in lateral projection
  900a

• X-ray of the cervical spine in an oblique projection
  900a

• X-ray of the upper cervical vertebrae (through the open mouth)
  1350a

• Radiography of the cervical spine in frontal projection with a movable jaw
  1350a

• Radiography of the cervical spine during functional tests
  2450a

The information and prices presented on the site are for reference only and are not a public offer.

Our clinics in St. Petersburg

You can get detailed information and make an appointment by calling
+7 (812) 640-55-25

The cervical spine itself is very active and mobile, while fragile and vulnerable, prone to frequent injuries and pathologies.Its distinctive feature is the presence of two segments – the first vertebra (atlas) and the second (axis), with the help of which a person rotates his head and tilts back and forth.

Any deviations and diseases in the cervical spine lead to severe pain not only in the neck, but also in the head, leading to a general deterioration in the human condition, the work of the brain and many internal organs.

Comprehensive diagnostics, which includes, first of all, X-ray of the cervical spine, including those carried out with functional tests, usually helps to reveal the ailment, to detect the pathology of the cervical spine.

If you are looking for where to get a high-quality X-ray of the cervical spine in St. Petersburg, then in the medical center “Medicenter” in the emergency room you will be given an effective X-ray examination of the cervical spine. The emergency room “Medicenter” is equipped with a high-tech digital X-ray apparatus Clinomat, which allows to carry out an X-ray examination in full and to study images in various processing modes. After the X-ray of the neck, qualified and experienced doctors of “Medicenter” will advise you, listen carefully to complaints, refer you to narrow-profile specialists based on the results of the study and prescribe an effective treatment.

Causes of ailments of the cervical spine

Injuries are the most common causes of diseases and injuries of the cervical spine. In addition, diseases of the cervical spine arise as a result of congenital anomalies, hereditary factors, a sedentary lifestyle and lack of sufficient physical activity, improper exercise, the presence of tumors and malignant neoplasms, colds and infectious diseases, metabolic disorders and the presence of endocrine diseases.

Consequences of injuries and untimely treatment of cervical ailments

The consequences of injuries and neglected diseases of the cervical spine are very serious and sometimes fatal. A dangerous development of the disease can be compression of the spinal cord, leading to disruption of the musculoskeletal system, disorders of the nervous system, respiratory and cardiovascular systems, and sometimes even death. In any case, even minor injuries can cause circulatory disturbances in the brain, blurred vision, tissue swelling, severe headaches, pressure surges, numbness of the upper extremities and other disorders of the internal organs.Timely diagnosis and treatment of the cervical spine will not only save your health, but also help to avoid disability and death.

Indications for X-ray of the cervical spine

The most common diseases of the cervical spine are osteochondrosis and intervertebral hernia. To identify these diseases, as well as diagnose injuries, diseases of the cervical spine, a functional X-ray examination of the neck is performed.

Indications for neck radiography may include:

• bruises, dislocations and other mechanical injuries of the cervical spine;
• birth injuries of the cervical spine;
• osteochondrosis of the cervical spine;
• spondylosis;

90,023 kyphosis;

• cervical lordosis;
• congenital malformations of the cervical spine;

90,023 arthritis;

• cervical sciatica;
• deformation of the intervertebral discs;
• tumor processes, metastases;
• pain in the neck when turning the head;
• characteristic crunch in the neck;

90,023 headaches of an unclear nature;

• limb numbness, joint pain, etc.d.

In addition, an X-ray of the cervical spine can be prescribed for insomnia, hand tremors, in the presence of a combination of other symptoms.

It is important to note that, unfortunately, X-ray of the cervical spine is not always sufficient to identify some pathologies of this part of the spine. So, for example, x-rays will not be able to show the condition of the tissues. An MRI may be needed to get an overall picture. Therefore, most often, diseases and injuries of the cervical spine are studied in a comprehensive manner.At the same time, an X-ray of the cervical spine is often the only way to make an accurate diagnosis and identify diseases with similar symptoms.

Contraindications to radiography of the cervical spine

Given the presence of X-rays during cervical X-rays, even in low doses, neck X-rays are contraindicated in pregnancy. It is not recommended to carry out the procedure for children under 15 years of age (only for health reasons and in the direction of the attending physician, when other studies are not effective), as well as for persons suffering from mental illness that interfere with the normal examination and patients in critical condition, especially with bleeding …

Preparation for X-ray of the cervical spine

Before the examination, all jewelry must be removed from the neck, mobile phone must be removed, and prepared to follow the instructions and teams of specialists performing neck x-rays. For some time during the study, you will have to be motionless.

Radiography of the cervical spine does not require other preliminary actions and preparation.

X-ray of the cervical spine

Taking into account the complex anatomical structure of the cervical spine, its proximity to the brain and the severity of the consequences of its injury, X-ray of the cervical spine is done in several projections: anterior and lateral.X-ray of the neck with functional tests allows you to see the displacement of the vertebrae, the degree of this deformity, and make a more accurate diagnosis. X-ray examination with samples is done with the patient lying on his side and on his back. It is very important to remain still during the shot so that the result is clear and effective. In addition, radiography is sometimes prescribed through the patient’s open mouth – to examine the first cervical vertebra. In any case, the whole procedure takes no more than 20 minutes and is completely painless.

873,837,756,990,1306,1408

Kolesnikova Elena

07/21/2021

14:07
medi-center.ru

Thank you very much to our doctor Budginaite Ksenia Alexandrovna !!! For responsiveness, professionalism, attentive attitude, humanism and dedication, a responsible approach to work !!!

Alferov Petr Leonidovich

28.12.2020

20:17
medi-center.ru

Many thanks to the physician therapist Aleksandr Sergeevich Dereshovsky for the professional performance of his work, for his patience and humanity. I would like to thank the staff of the clinic’s call center and my brother’s honey, who collects swabs for corona analysis. All of these employees promptly and professionally helped to overcome the virus. I wish you health and patience. Well done!

Nikolaev Arseny Vitalievich

03.09.2020

13:34
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Good afternoon! I would like to thank the traumatologist Riahi Aymena for his professionalism and high responsibility in his work! Damaged ligaments, for the first time in my life, I was very worried. At the very first visit, I received qualified help and recommendations for a speedy recovery. I am a very curious person and I was pleasantly pleased with the fact that I was able to get answers to all my questions related to stretching (as an injury), materials for leg fixation, etc.This is a very important quality of a doctor when he can explain processes from his field in a professional, but at the same time understandable language for a simple layman.
Thank you MediCenter for your attitude towards recruiting!

Good afternoon! I want to express my deep gratitude to the neurologist Yana Starostenko, I was on compulsory medical insurance, with the problem of pain, I am very grateful for the sensitive approach. I felt much better. thanks a lot! finally I feel like a man.

Hello! We would like to leave a good review about the work of the medical center.On March 11, 2020, my daughter (3.5 years old) suffered a dislocation of the elbow joint. We immediately turned to the trauma center at Polikarpov Alley, 6, building 2, letter A. We arrived at about 23:00. We were immediately met at the entrance by the doctor A.O. Joraev. Instantly found an approach to the crying child. This problem is often encountered in young children, so the doctor immediately understood what had happened and what to do. He performed several manipulations, took an X-ray to make sure that there was no serious injury, then a few more manipulations and the pen worked.The doctor and the administrator of the medical center tolerated and sympathetic to the crying child and did everything right. We express our gratitude to the staff of the medical center and personally to the doctor A.O. for fast and professional work!

I would like to express my gratitude to Vladimir Aleksandrovich Sidorkin (ENT). Thanks to professionalism and experience, the doctor was able to diagnose inflammation of the trigeminal nerve, although initially he assumed pharyngitis, because the pain was in the area of ​​the frontal sinuses. The doctor made the correct diagnosis after looking at the X-ray disc.The neurologist confirmed the diagnosis.
We kindly ask you to provide the ENT doctor with the ability to view X-ray images on digital media (disks) so that the doctor does not run around the clinic looking for a PC with a drive.

Cervical osteochondrosis | Symptoms, treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine in Izhevsk

Cervical osteochondrosis is a common disease resulting from a sedentary lifestyle, improper diet, and decreased physical activity.Pathological changes can manifest themselves at a young age, mainly in office workers, people who spend a lot of time at the computer, in front of the TV, neglect the recommendations of specialists for arranging a place for sleep and rest.

Osteochondrosis of the neck is a degenerative lesion of the intervertebral discs and joints of the cervical spine, which leads to pinching of nerve endings and inflammation. The result is pain, weakness, and dizziness.If the problem is ignored, then metabolic processes are disrupted, the spinal section is destroyed, there is a risk of a hernia.

The Neurology Department of the Elena Malysheva Clinic invites you to undergo diagnostics and treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. If you have signs of pathological changes, then do not delay the visit to a specialist. After all, the quality of your life, the full functioning of the whole organism depends on it.

Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis

The main symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine are:

• feeling of weakness;
• pain in the neck, shoulders, back of the head, arms;
• coordination disorder;
• nausea and dizziness;
• pain and crunch when turning the head;
• hearing impairment, vision.

The manifestation of symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis depends on the degree (stages) of the disease:

• 1 degree. Preclinical stage. Minor manifestations. The feeling of pain occurs only during movement.
• 2nd degree. The nerves are pinched when the intervertebral discs are displaced, which leads to intense pain, as well as a deterioration in the general condition. Absent-mindedness, fatigue, decreased performance appear.
• 3rd degree. The pain spreads to the arms, shoulders, dizziness, muscle numbness appears.
• 4 degree. The destruction of the intervertebral discs occurs, which leads to impaired coordination, curvature of posture.

Diagnostics

To draw up a program of assistance in identifying signs of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, the doctor conducts an initial examination and prescribes a subsequent diagnosis. The patient can be referred to:

• radiography. Allows you to see the displacement in the spine;
• MRI. Creates a picture of the development of pathology, size, direction of growth of deviations;
• ct.It makes it possible to assess the size of the vertebral changes;
• UDS. Helps to assess blood flow velocity;
• analysis of urine and blood to assess the general condition, exclude contraindications;
• examination by a gynecologist, oncologist, psychologist, therapist, as well as other specialists, which eliminates contraindications when choosing methods of providing assistance to a patient

Based on the results of the diagnosis, the doctor decides on the appointment of treatment methods.

Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis

Treatment of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is aimed at:

• elimination of pain syndrome;
• relieving tension from the neck-collar zone;
• Improving the blood supply to the problem area;
• relapse prevention.

For a comprehensive solution to the tasks set, the treatment of osteochondrosis of the neck is used medication and physiotherapy, aimed at:

• Relief of the sensation of symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis;
• removal of edema and impact on nerve endings;
• reduction and elimination of muscle spasm;
• restoration of cartilage tissue;
• acceleration of metabolic processes for recovery;
• improving the rheological properties of blood;

Drug treatment of cervical osteochondrosis with an advanced form of pathology is carried out using methods that give a quick analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, providing a general strengthening effect.In this case, blockages and injections are used, which are prescribed by a doctor and performed by special medical workers in a hospital.

To completely eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, treatment is carried out using physiotherapy (ultrasound, magnetotherapy, electrophoresis), which is assigned individually to each patient undergoing a course of recovery in the clinic.

Additional ways to eliminate the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine and treatment are:

• physiotherapy exercises;
• classic and manual massage;
• manual therapy;
• swimming;
• special diet.

A set of methods for treating cervical osteochondrosis is selected by a neurologist, based on the patient’s complaints, the results of diagnostics, and the general condition of the body.

Benefits of treatment in the medical center of Elena Malysheva

If you have decided to undergo treatment in the clinic of Elena Malysheva, then you can be sure that here:

• Experienced certified professionals work. We approach each problem in a comprehensive manner. Therefore, the examination can be carried out by several doctors at once, which will make it possible to make an accurate diagnosis, to determine which specialist will treat you.
• Affordable prices for treatment in Izhevsk. The tariffs for all types of services can be found in the price list. The final calculation is made after determining the entire set of procedures required for recovery.
• All conditions have been created for diagnostics and subsequent treatment. Special rooms and wards have been equipped, in which each patient will feel comfortable.
• Individual approach. All procedures are prescribed taking into account the characteristics of the patient’s body, his complaints, symptoms, past diseases, and diagnostic results.We guarantee effective and safe treatment.

You can make an appointment with a neurologist by calling (3412) 52-50-50. We also suggest filling out the form on the website, and our operators will contact you to agree on a convenient time for visiting a specialist.
90,000 MRI of the cervical spine in Novosibirsk with and without contrast, 💊 price

In the neck area, there are large blood vessels, nerve plexuses are located, and the cervical region is the most mobile segment of the spinal column.Moreover, this area is prone to trauma and the development of various diseases. If you suspect any abnormalities, it is important to undergo an MRI of the cervical spine in a timely manner. In Novosibirsk, this service is offered by the clinic for radiation diagnostics “Apex”.

What the doctor will see

Images in different planes obtained during magnetic resonance imaging allow the specialist to establish the existing deviations with millimeter accuracy:

• congenital and / or acquired pathologies of bone tissue development;
• anomalies of development, tortuosity or narrowing of blood vessels;
• changes in the intervertebral discs;
• Condition of soft tissues of the neck with bruises, inflammatory processes, etc.

Chapter clear – mood

The procedure is painless and does not require special preparation, except for the cases when the introduction of a contrast agent into the patient’s body is indicated for a more accurate analysis.

All metal jewelry and objects must be removed. After that, the patient is placed on the table of the tomograph, if necessary, the medical officer injects a contrast agent. The table is moved to the working area of ​​the apparatus to obtain images of the area under study.On average, the duration of the study is about 20-30 minutes. When conducting MRI of the spine with a contrast agent, the duration of the study may increase by 10-20 minutes. You also need to keep in mind that its use will affect the cost of the service.

At the end of the examination, the patient is handed a conclusion with images on a digital medium (CD) for presentation to the attending physician, who, based on all the data obtained, will make the final diagnosis.

Preliminary Write

Experienced radiologists at the Apex Center help their patients diagnose diseases in a timely and accurate manner and begin treatment. You can make an appointment with the best specialists of the department using the contact information on our website. Here you will also find out about the price of an MRI of the cervical spine.

A timely established cause of the disease is half the way to recovery.

90,000 MRI of the cervical spine and angiography of the neck arteries

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