Get Your Free 15 Minute ConsultationSign Up Via Calendly→
Neck pain is a common and has a variety of causes, including:
The muscles around the neck, shoulder blade, and rib cage are used for postural support of the body. Overuse like poor posture when sitting at a computer often triggers muscle strains. Minor things like sleeping with too big of a pillow, quickly looking over shoulder when hunched over a steering wheel or clenching the jaw can strain neck muscles.
The bones of the neck and discs between them undergo wear and tear with age. This can cause degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) or degenerative disc disease (thinning of the discs) in your neck, resulting in increased stiffness and pain.
Nerve compression in the neck can occur due to herniated discs or bone spurs. These structures compromise the space between bones where the nerves exit the spine.
These structures press on the nerves branching out from the spinal cord and cause pain, numbness, or tingling into the arm or fingers.
Motor vehicle accidents and falls often result in whiplash injuries which occur when the head is jerked backward and forward. This stretches connective tissues of the neck beyond their limits, causing instability and pain in the neck.
Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, meningitis or cancer can also cause neck pain.
Typical symptoms associated with neck pain include:
At Rebalance Physical Therapy, we use a holistic approach to treat neck pain. We differ from traditional therapies by looking at the whole body to identify additional problems that can also worsen the primary problem.
We individualize evaluation and treatment in order to be most effective in addressing a person’s symptoms. We use the Integrated Systems Model (ISM) for Pain & Disability (Lee & Lee, 2007) as framework for treatment and interpret the unique picture of each individual patient. The goal of the ISM approach is to facilitate better strategies for posture and functional movement.
Whether it be sustained postural positions such as sitting at a desk or dynamic activities like picking up your child, functional activity requires integration of all regions of the body.
When a patient presents with pain, along with functional limitations such as difficulty lifting, we determine how all areas of the body interact with each other during total body function. By considering the connections between all parts of the body, the patient’s injury history and pain experience can be better reasoned, explained and treated appropriately.
This condition, often referred to as a “pain in the neck” quite literally, can cause a range of uncomfortable sensations that ripple through the upper body. From radiating pain to tingling limbs, here’s what you need to know about cervical radiculopathy and how it can be managed.
1. Understanding the Symptoms Cervical radiculopathy is characterized by a medley of symptoms that, while diverse, all stem from the same root cause. Affected individuals commonly report feelings of weakness or heaviness in their arms, along with localized pain that originates in one area and then travels outward. This radiating pain might start in the neck or shoulder, only to extend its reach down the entire arm. Additionally, the sensation of dull or sharp pain, akin to pins and needles, can also make an unwelcome appearance, often resembling the feeling of a limb “falling asleep.”
2. Pinpointing the Culprit The origin of cervical radiculopathy lies in the cervical spine, the neck region of your spine. This condition arises when a nerve in this area becomes inflamed or irritated. The culprits behind this irritation can vary widely, ranging from muscular imbalances to joint restrictions. These factors conspire to squeeze and strain the nerves, leading to the discomfort and disruption of sensation that characterize cervical radiculopathy.
3. The Reach of the Problem The complexity of the human nervous system is highlighted by the effects of cervical radiculopathy. The nerves of the cervical spine extend their reach throughout the shoulders and arms. When these nerves are compromised, they can impair the function and sensation of the entire upper extremity. The pain, coupled with reduced functionality, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.
4. Seeking Relief Addressing cervical radiculopathy requires a multi-pronged approach. While anti-inflammatory medications and ice packs can provide temporary relief, they only scratch the surface. Physical therapy emerges as a critical component of treatment, aiming to rectify the muscular imbalances that contribute to the condition. Consulting with a physical therapist offers a more sustainable solution, as they can delve into the root causes of the problem and prescribe tailored exercises and stretches.
5. The Holistic Path to Recovery Rebalance, a hub for comprehensive care, emphasizes a holistic approach to managing cervical radiculopathy. The skilled therapists at Rebalance evaluate each patient’s unique situation, offering a personalized blend of manual treatments, exercises, and lifestyle adjustments. This approach not only alleviates the immediate pain but also prevents future occurrences by addressing the underlying issues.
Bid Farewell to the “Pain in the Neck” If you find yourself grappling with the discomfort and tingling sensations brought on by cervical radiculopathy, don’t hesitate to reach out to Rebalance’s team of physical therapists. By tackling the problem head-on with a holistic and personalized strategy, you can regain control over your body and bid farewell to that persistent “pain in the neck.” Don’t let cervical radiculopathy dictate your life – take charge and embark on the journey to recovery.
Take the First Step Towards Relief! Don’t let cervical radiculopathy hold you back any longer. If you’re tired of dealing with the nagging pain, tingling, and discomfort, it’s time to take action. Contact Rebalance Physical Therapy today and begin your journey towards a pain-free life. Our team of dedicated professionals is ready to provide you with the expert care and personalized solutions you need to overcome cervical radiculopathy and regain your well-being. Reach out to us and say goodbye to the “pain in the neck” once and for all. Your path to relief starts here.