Neck Pain
Neck Pain Specialist in North and Central NJ and New York City
Chronic neck pain impacts every aspect of your life, impeding your ability to work and sleep comfortably. At Caring Pain Management in North and Central New Jersey and New York City, Jinghui Xie, MD, can expertly evaluate, treat, and relieve neck pain caused by underlying spinal injuries and disorders. Using advanced diagnostic techniques, she identifies your condition and develops a personalized treatment plan that relieves pain and promotes healing.
Neck Pain Q & A
What is neck pain?
Neck pain is a symptom of problems originating in the cervical spine, a structure made of the seven vertebrae just below the base of the skull. It can also occur due to inflammation of the ligaments and muscles in the neck.
What causes neck pain?
Most neck pain is caused by strain and overuse of your neck muscles or the discs in your cervical spine.
Everyday activities like working at a computer, gardening, or playing sports can create temporary discomfort that is relieved with rest and over-the-counter medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen.
More severe injuries, such as whiplash and mechanical disorders like arthritis, can create persistent neck pain that is more difficult to resolve. Common causes of chronic neck pain include:● Worn and narrowed spinal discs from osteoarthritis● Inflammation of joints from rheumatoid arthritis● Over-contracted neck muscles● Age-related spinal disc damage● Stiffness in the cervical spine● Pinched nerves● Spinal cord compression
● Chronic neck pain can also be a symptom of potentially life-threatening infections like meningitis or tumors.What are the symptoms of neck pain?
Depending on your condition, neck pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing sensations that are aggravated by movement. Some disorders pinch the cervical nerves, causing pain, numbness, and loss of muscle strength in the arms and legs.
Certain conditions can cause more severe symptoms like loss of control in the bladder and bowels if they're left untreated.What are treatment options for neck pain?
After a thorough physical examination, Dr. Xie creates the best treatment plan for you. If necessary, she uses X-rays, MRIs, or other advanced tools to diagnose your condition.
Dr. Xie at Caring Pain Management first uses a conservative approach when treating neck pain. If therapies like physical therapy, pain relievers, and prescription medications don't resolve your pain, she may suggest one the following:● Facet injections● Spinal cord stimulator● Physical therapy● Nerve blocks● Epidural steroid injections● Trigger point injections
Dr. Xie works with you to determine a treatment plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.