When to See a Specialist About Your Neck Pain

Neck pain can occur at any time, making it difficult to look up, down, or side to side. Although it usually improves with rest and activity changes, neck pain that continues for more than a few days shouldn’t be ignored.

At Sunshine Spine and Pain Specialists, PLLC, in Sarasota, Florida, our team of interventional pain management specialists provides complete care for neck pain. In this blog, we explain which symptoms require a professional exam.

Neck pain: What it is and common causes

Neck pain is discomfort, aching, or stiffness that affects any part of the cervical spine (the seven vertebrae above your shoulders that support your head). Most symptoms occur specifically in the neck. However, they may also radiate into your shoulders, arms, or back.

Often, neck pain is caused by sleeping in an awkward position or straining, but it can also point to more serious issues, such as arthritis, whiplash, or a herniated disc. That’s why knowing when to see a specialist is so important.

Neck pain symptoms: 4 signs you should see a specialist

Several neck pain symptoms necessitate a professional exam, including:

1. Severe pain

Neck pain is usually mild. However, if your symptoms affect your ability to work, exercise, or do other activities, identifying the cause is essential. That’s especially true if home remedies, like ice and rest, don’t help. 

Severe neck pain often worsens quickly. We can diagnose the source and make personalized treatment recommendations.

2. The pain occurs following an injury

Most neck pain occurs because of strain or general wear-and-tear. If your symptoms start after trauma, like a fall or car accident, it’s likely due to a musculoskeletal injury. 

High-speed collisions and other types of impact can strain the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your neck and damage your vertebrae and intervertebral discs. Prompt treatment can prevent this damage from worsening and speed up healing.

3. Fever or unexplained weight loss

Rarely, neck pain occurs alongside systemic symptoms, like fever and unexplained weight loss. These issues can indicate potentially serious medical conditions, like vertebral osteomyelitis. 

Vertebral osteomyelitis is a bone infection caused by germs and bacteria. It tends to occur in people with vertebral fractures (broken bones).

4. Headaches and dizziness

Sometimes, neck pain causes headaches and dizziness. This usually indicates a pinched nerve or a herniated disc, but it can also be caused by neurological issues. Although rare, getting screened for migraines, brain tumors, and inner ear problems is crucial to providing peace of mind.

How is neck pain diagnosed?

At Sunshine Spine and Pain Specialists, PLLC, we diagnose neck pain using an integrative and minimally invasive approach.

First, we review your medical records and ask about your symptoms, including when they started, what they feel like, and if they worsen during certain activities, like driving or lying down.

Next, we examine your neck, checking for bruising, swelling, and redness. We also assess your neck’s range of motion and gently press on your vertebrae, shoulders, and base of your skull to identify sensitive areas.

Sometimes, visual observation is enough to make a diagnosis. However, if we suspect an underlying injury, like a fracture or herniated disc, we order diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI.

After confirming the diagnosis, we develop a personalized treatment plan to relieve pain and promote healing.

Remember, You don’t have to live with neck pain!

Our caring team regularly helps people living with neck pain. Schedule an evaluation today through online booking or by calling Sunshine Spine and Pain Specialists, PLLC.