Understanding The Management Of Chronic Neck Pain
by Brian Perry
Neck pain is one of the commonest reasons people make a trip to the hospital. This symptom may be experienced as a sign of acute or chronic conditions in the cervical region. The causes are many but are often related to problems affecting the anatomical structures found within the region. In this article, we look at the possible causes, diagnosis and treatment of <a href="http://energywithintherapy.com">chronic neck pain</a>.
When you visit a doctor in Blue Bell, PA, they will start the process of diagnosis by taking a comprehensive history of your condition. Part of what they will want to know is how the problem started and how it has progressed over time. The next steps are for them to conduct a physical examination and to request for several investigations. These will be determined by the condition suspected. In general the commonly used investigations include X ray images, the MRI and CT scans.
Cervical disc herniation is a major cause of pain in the cervical region. The condition occurs when one or more inter-vertebral discs are displaced from their normal anatomical location. Normally, these discs play a vital role in shock absorption when forces are transmitted through the spine. Since they are in close proximity to nerve fibers that run along the length of the spine, their displacement frequently causes impingement.
The management of disc prolapse is divided into conservative and surgical options. Traction is one of the most frequently used (and effective) conservative options. Spinal traction entails the application of a steady pulling force on the spine with the aim of restoring the normal anatomy. About twenty sessions offered over 4 or 6 weeks are usually needed. Analgesic agents may be obtained over the counter or by way of prescription. Surgery is reserved for cases that do not respond to the conservative interventions.
Cervical disc degeneration occurs progressively as we age. The effects of degeneration are similar to those that are seen with herniation. Treatment is also divided into conservative and surgical. The main conservative treatments that are offered here include heat and cold compression therapies, neck exercises, and analgesic agents. These treatments have to be tried for a minimum of 6 months before surgical intervention is considered.
Pain that is described as being present in the cervical region and radiating to the arms is most likely the result of cervical spine narrowing (stenosis). It is easily diagnosed from X-ray images. This condition is asymptomatic in many people. When the symptoms are manifested, their onset is gradual and they progress in severity with time. Cervical spine stenosis is usually associated with other symptoms such as tingling of hands, numbness and in-coordination.
There are a number of alternative medicine techniques that have been tried for this problem with varying rates of success. Acupuncture is one of those that are most widely practiced. In this method, several small needles are inserted in predetermined areas of the body to influence the flow of life energy (qi). Other techniques that have been tried include massage and chiropractic adjustments.
There are many causes of neck pain affecting men and women in almost equal measure. The good news is that many of them are usually self-limiting and can be easily managed by home based therapies or over the counter analgesic agents. Others, however, are more serious and require professional help. It is important to always seek guidance when in doubt.
When you are looking for the facts about <a href="http://energywithintherapy.com">chronic neck pain</a>, come to our web pages online here today. Additional details are available at http://energywithintherapy.com now.
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New Unique Article!
Title: Understanding The Management Of Chronic Neck Pain
Author: Brian Perry
Email: nathanwebster335@live.com
Keywords: Chronic neck pain
Word Count: 565
Category: Alternative Medicine
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