Neck Pain

Neck pain is a common complaint, but if it lasts more than a week, don’t wait to seek treatment. At his practice in Kyle, Floresville, La Vernia, and Gonzales, Texas, fellowship-trained interventional pain management specialist Eric Miller, MD, offers minimally invasive and conservative treatments to manage neck pain and prevent it from worsening. Call the office of Dr. Eric Miller, MD, today to schedule a treatment for neck pain, or book your appointment online. 

Should I be worried about neck pain?

Not necessarily. Most cases of neck pain are mild and occur because of poor posture or general wear and tear. However, if your neck pain interferes with your ability to rest, work, or exercise, identifying the cause is essential. Intervention and treatment can prevent the problem from worsening and help you return to your favorite activities.

What are the symptoms of neck pain?

Neck pain symptoms include:

• A persistent ache
• Stabbing or burning pain
• Shooting pain that travels into the shoulders or arms
• Headache
• Stiffness in the upper back, shoulders, or neck
• Difficulty turning or tilting your head
• Tingling or numbness in your shoulders or arms 

Neck pain worsens during specific activities, like driving, lying down, or sitting at a computer.

How does a pain management specialist diagnose neck pain?

Dr. Miller reviews your medical records and asks about your lifestyle, including if you participate in activities that might strain your neck, like working out or lifting objects at work. He also asks about your pain, including where it hurts, what it feels like, and if certain activities like driving make it worse.

Dr. Miller completes a physical exam, checking your neck and upper back for redness, bruising, and signs of strain. He gently presses on your spine, shoulders, and upper back to identify sensitive areas and assesses your gait (the way you walk) and posture.

Dr. Miller orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, if he suspects your neck pain is due to an underlying medical condition, such as arthritis or a bone spur. He orders electrodiagnostic testing if he suspects nerve damage or a problem with your muscles. 

How does interventional pain management treat neck pain?

Dr. Miller treats neck pain using a conservative and minimally invasive approach. He might suggest:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Muscle relaxers
• Physical therapy
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Multiwave Locked System (MLS) laser therapy
• Corticosteroid injections
• Trigger point injections
• Nerve blocks
• Hot and cold therapy
• Spinal cord stimulation (SCS)
• Massage

It might take several types of treatment to provide lasting relief. Dr. Miller monitors your progress and adjusts your treatment plan to ensure long-term results. 

Call the office of Dr. Eric Miller, MD, today to schedule neck pain treatment, or book your appointment online.