What Causes Neck Pain?
Neck pain often develops from a combination of structural issues, injuries, and lifestyle factors. For many, the problem begins with changes in the cervical spine itself. Conditions like facet joint arthritis or osteoporosis can weaken the bones and joints, while arthritis may also lead to bone spurs and thickened ligaments. These changes can narrow the spinal canal, a condition known as spinal stenosis, and place pressure on nearby nerves. Degenerative disc disease is another frequent culprit, and when combined with trauma or aging, it may result in herniated discs that cause nerve compression and radiating pain.
The most common causes of neck pain include:
- Arthritis, osteoporosis, or degenerative disc disease in the cervical spine
- Bone spurs, thickened ligaments, and spinal stenosis
- Herniated discs and nerve compression
- Whiplash and other traumatic injuries
- Muscle overuse, poor posture, and chronic stress
By understanding the many potential causes of neck pain, you can ensure you’re getting effective, targeted treatment. At Pain Management of North Dallas, we carefully evaluate your symptoms and lifestyle to pinpoint the source of discomfort and build a plan that restores long-term neck pain relief.
What Symptoms Might I Experience in Addition to Neck Pain?
Neck pain is rarely just an isolated ache. Many patients also experience stiffness that makes it difficult to turn their head, or you may notice grinding or crunching noises called crepitus when you move. In some cases, the discomfort spreads upward into the skull and triggers headaches, making the pain feel even more disruptive.
When nerves in the cervical spine become irritated or compressed, a condition called cervical radiculopathy can develop. This often causes symptoms that extend beyond the neck itself and travel into the shoulders, arms, and even the hands. These nerve-related symptoms may include:
- Numbness, weakness, or tingling
- Burning or prickling sensations
- “Pins-and-needles” feelings that follow the path of the affected nerves
When necessary, we use advanced imaging such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI studies to view the structures in your cervical spine. For patients with suspected nerve involvement, diagnostic tests such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) studies provide additional insight into nerve function. These tools allow our team to accurately identify the source of your pain and build a treatment plan designed specifically for your neck pain symptoms and condition.
How We Treat Neck Pain in North Dallas
At Pain Management of North Dallas, we create individualized treatment plans because every case of neck pain is different. Care often begins with conservative options and medications like muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatories to reduce pain and improve neck mobility. For patients needing additional neck pain relief, we offer advanced interventional treatments.
Some of the most effective treatments for acute and chronic neck pain include:
- Physical therapy, posture correction, and manual techniques
- Medications for pain and inflammation
- Targeted injections including epidural, facet joint, or nerve blocks
- Advanced pain management options like radiofrequency ablation, regenerative medicine, and spinal cord stimulation
Our team carefully selects the most appropriate treatment for each patient, with the goal of providing lasting relief and helping patients across Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Addison, and Dallas return to daily life with greater comfort.
Ready to book your treatment for neck pain relief? Call today or request an appointment with our board-certified neck pain specialists in one of our North Dallas-area pain clinics near you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Pain
Can neck pain cause problems beyond my neck and shoulders?
Absolutely. In some cases, chronic neck pain can contribute to tension headaches, fatigue, or sleep problems. Over time, this can affect mood and concentration, making it important to treat neck pain early before it leads to secondary issues.
Does stress really make neck pain worse?
Yes. Stress can cause muscles in the neck and shoulders to tighten, which may increase pain or make existing discomfort more noticeable. Many patients find that addressing stress through relaxation techniques, stretching, or lifestyle changes can help reduce flare-ups.
Can exercise help with neck pain?
Gentle, targeted exercise can strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility, which may reduce the frequency and severity of neck pain. Your provider can guide you toward safe movements and avoid exercises that could worsen your condition.
When should I consider specialized pain management care?
If you’ve tried basic remedies like rest, over-the-counter medication, or posture changes without improvement, it may be time to see a neck pain specialist. At Pain Management of North Dallas, we provide advanced options beyond primary care, helping patients achieve relief when first-line treatments aren’t enough.
