Common Neurological Conditions

What causes neck pain?

Pain located in the neck is a common medical condition. Neck pain can come from a number of disorders and diseases such as degenerative disc disease, neck strain, whiplash, a herniated disc, or a pinched nerve. Neck pain is also referred to as cervical pain, as that part of the spine is called the cervical spine.

What symptoms are associated with neck pain?

Neck pain is commonly associated with dull aching and sometimes the pain in the neck is worsened with movement of the neck. Other symptoms associated with some forms of neck pain include numbness, tingling, tenderness, sharp shooting pain, fullness, dizziness and lightheadedness.

How is neck pain diagnosed?

In diagnosing the cause of neck pain, it is important to review the history of your symptoms. Dr. Mir will note the location, intensity, duration, and radiation of the pain. Aggravating and/or relieving positions or motions are also recorded. The neck is examined at rest and in motion while tenderness is detected during palpation of the neck. An examination of the nervous system is performed to determine whether or not nerve involvement is present.

Typically, testing of neck pain can include electrical tests such as x-rays, MRI, Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Study test (NCS). Through these tests, Dr. Mir can determine the cause of your pain.

How is neck pain treated?

The treatment of neck pain depends on its cause. Treatment may include rest, heat/ice applications, traction, soft collar traction, physical modalities, massages, local injections of cortisone or anesthetics, topical anesthetic creams, topical pain patches, muscle relaxants, analgesics, and surgical procedures.