Neck Pain Treatment
Treatment of neck pain depends on the cause.
Medication
Analgesics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs are recommended for pain. other medications like muscle relaxants such as orphenadrine or tzigandizine are more of help. Over the counter topical creams and patches containing counterirritants are often used. However, there is little evidence to support efficacy.
Conservative treatment
Mobilization and/or manipulation plus exercise has been found to be beneficial in both acute and chronic mechanical neck disorders. Neck pain can be treated by numerous approaches. They range in complexity depending on the severity and underlying causes of the pain. Treatment is administered by chiropractic, osteopathic and physical therapy. All of these specialties treat neck pain issues. The benefit of mobilization and Joint manipulation alone is not clear. Neck pain can also be eased via many self help techniques such as stretching and strength building exercises. The posture of an individual plays an important role in causing, as well as in seizing of neck pain. Forward stooped postures are the mainstay in causing pain. In this position the normal cervical lordosis is interrupted as a result the muscles from their point of origin to insertion is strained.
The use of heat of cold may provide short term pain relief. Ultrasound has been shown not to be efficacious. Travel-Ease™ relieves back tension and neck pain by supporting the head and neck and allowing your muscles to relax.
Surgery
Surgery is usually not indicated for most mechanical causes of neck pain. If neck pain is the result of instability, cancer, or other disease process surgery may be necessary. Surgery is usually not indicated for “pinched nerves” or herniated discs unless there is spinal cord compression or pain and disability have been protracted for many months and refractory to conservative treatment such as physical therapy.
Prognosis
About one-half of episodes resolve within one year. About 10% of cases become chronic. Wikipedia.org
