What are the symptoms of neck and back pain?
Neck and back pain can range from mild, sore, and aching discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. Other symptoms of neck and back pain include:
- Decreased range of motion
- Stiffness in your neck and back
- Trouble finding a comfortable position for sleeping, sitting, or standing
- Pain that worsens with certain movements
- Pain that worsens when coughing or sneezing
- Numbness and tingling in your arms or legs
- Sharp, shooting pain into your arms or legs
Different conditions can also cause other unique symptoms. To determine the cause of your pain, the Ortho One team completes a thorough consultation and exam.
What causes neck and back pain?
The neck and back have many structures in your spine and surrounding soft tissues that can trigger pain and other uncomfortable symptoms. Common issues that cause neck and back pain include:
- Facet syndrome
- Spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Whiplash
- Radiculopathy
- Arthritis
- Degenerative joint disease
- Disc herniations
Depending on the extent and severity of your symptoms, the Ortho One team uses different diagnostic testing methods to determine the cause of your pain.
How are neck and back pain diagnosed?
Diagnosing neck and back pain can be complex due to the delicate nature of your spine, spinal nerves, and surrounding soft tissues. The Ortho One team takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, beginning with a thorough consultation and exam.
During your exam, your provider performs specific orthopedic tests to locate the source of your pain and identify the structures causing your pain. In some cases, these tests may increase your discomfort, so let your provider know if you experience an increase in symptoms.
After your exam, the team may order X-rays or an MRI of your spine, or additional testing such as blood work or a nerve conduction study. With the results from your exam and any specialized testing, the team identifies your diagnosis and offers treatment options.
How are neck and back pain treated?
Based on your diagnosis, the Ortho One team may recommend a variety of therapies and treatment options, including:
- Physical therapy
- Hot and cold therapy
- Lifestyle modifications
- Massage therapy
- Bracing and supports
- Anti-inflammatory and pain medications
- Joint injections
In most cases, treatment begins with a trial of conservative therapy before progressing to prescription medications or joint injections. The team provides referrals to orthopedic spine specialists for surgical consultations, as needed.
To get relief from your neck or back pain, visit Ortho One Jacksonville by scheduling a visit online or over the phone today.
