Neck Pain

At UT Southwestern Medical Center, specialists at the Spine Center offer patients with neck pain the most advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies and techniques. Our spine specialists have expertise in comprehensive care such as nerve conduction studies, therapeutic injections, and specialized spine imaging.

Our collaborative team approach gives patients access to physiatrists, pain management specialists, and other specialists with one call. Our goal is to partner with our patients in their care, get them back to good health as soon as possible, and help them understand that their best days are still ahead.

Spine Center

Comprehensive Spine Care to Reclaim Quality of Life

The specialized spine doctors at UT Southwestern Spine Center are dedicated to helping patients overcome spine problems, providing comprehensive care and access to the latest and most effective treatments.

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Why Choose UT Southwestern for Neck Pain?

Neck pain can affect everything from mobility to mood – but with the right treatment plan, life can be enjoyable again.

At the Spine Center, we don’t believe in the one-size-fits-all concept. Each patient's treatment plan is as unique as their pain. Our multimodal approach aims to eliminate pain and restore normal function – without unnecessary surgery.

Unlike other clinics that may offer only specific treatments, UT Southwestern provides a full range of therapeutic options to meet our patients’ needs.

Healing is a journey best taken together. We build strong partnerships with our patients, encouraging them to be active participants in their care.

What Causes Neck Pain?

Neck pain (also called cervicalgia) affects people of all ages and ranges from occasional discomfort to severe pain. It can be caused by factors such as:

Arthritis, a condition that involves inflammation of the joints
Cervical spondylolisthesis, a condition in which a vertebra slips out of its proper position and onto the vertebra below it, potentially compressing nerves and causing pain
Cervical stenosis, a narrowing in the spine that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves
Genetics, such as a family history of degenerative disc disease or other spinal issues
Herniated discs, which occur when the gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the exterior layer, potentially pinching nearby nerves
Injuries, including trauma from accidents, falls, or sports activities
Myofascial pain syndrome, a condition characterized by tight, tender areas of muscle (trigger points) that are sensitive to pressure
Poor posture, which can strain the muscles and ligaments in the neck
Spinal fractures, which can cause severe pain and instability in the neck

For some patients, neck pain comes and goes; others deal with chronic neck pain.

Regardless of the cause and type, experiencing neck pain can greatly diminish patients’ quality of life.

What Are the Symptoms of Neck Pain?

Neck pain can significantly impact daily life, and the severity and type of symptoms often depend on the underlying cause of the pain. Common symptoms include:

Muscle tightness and spasms, which can lead to stiffness and a reduced range of motion in the neck
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands
Pain that radiates to the shoulders, arms, and even the head

What Are the Complications of Neck Pain?

Neck pain, if left untreated, can lead to several complications that significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Common complications include:

Chronic pain: Persistent neck pain can evolve into a chronic condition, making it more difficult to treat and manage over time. Chronic pain can reduce mobility and lead to deconditioning of muscles, which further exacerbates the pain and discomfort.
Referred pain: Neck pain can cause pain in other areas of the body, such as the head, shoulders, or arms.
Neurological issues: Severe neck pain is sometimes associated with nerve compression. In some cases, it can cause headaches, changes in vision, and balance problems.
Mental health concerns: Chronic neck pain can contribute to mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression. The constant pain and its limitations can lead to emotional distress, impacting a person’s overall well-being.

How Can Neck Pain Be Prevented?

Neck pain can often be prevented by adopting healthy habits and making ergonomic adjustments in daily routines. Key prevention strategies include:

Maintaining good posture: Shoulders should be aligned with the hips, and ears should be directly over the shoulders when standing and sitting.
Taking frequent breaks: Take regular breaks to stretch and move around, especially during long periods of sitting or computer use, to prevent muscle stiffness and fatigue.
Making ergonomic adjustments: Computer monitors should be at eye level, chairs should support the lower back, and feet should be flat on the floor.
Staying active: Regular physical activity, including exercises that strengthen and stretch the neck and upper back, can reduce the risk of pain by keeping muscles strong and flexible.
Sleeping in the proper position: Use a supportive pillow that keeps the neck aligned with the spine.
Avoiding heavy items: Avoid carrying heavy bags with straps over one shoulder; instead, opt for a backpack that distributes weight evenly.
Quitting smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of neck pain due to its impact on bone and disc health.
Managing stress: Practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress and prevent muscle tension.

How Is Neck Pain Diagnosed?

If a patient has neck pain, we’ll conduct a physical examination and order spine imaging and other studies to determine its cause. Tests, procedures, and studies used to evaluate and diagnose neck pain might include:

Bone scan: An imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive material to look for abnormalities in the bones
Computed tomography (CT) scan: Uses specialized X-ray equipment to create images of the body that can help detect bone abnormalities, in particular
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of soft tissues, including muscles and nerves
Myelography: Involves injecting a contrast dye into the spinal canal to highlight the spinal cord and nerve roots on X-rays or CT scans
X-ray: Uses radiation to produce images of bones and joints

How Is Neck Pain Treated?

After diagnosis, we make sure patients see the right experts to treat their specific symptoms. Spine Center specialists treat neck pain with a complete spectrum of therapies that might include:

Anti-inflammation drugs: Medications that reduce inflammation and relieve pain
Biofeedback: A technique that teaches patients to control physiological processes such as muscle tension, heart rate, and pain perception
Cortisone injections: Anti-inflammatory steroid injections that can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation
Physical therapy: Tailored exercises and treatments to improve mobility, strength, and function while reducing pain
Neck surgery: Used in rare cases to address severe or persistent neck pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments

We’ll create a care plan that minimizes the number of visits a patient needs to make, while also providing all the support needed.

How Can Neck Pain Be Treated at Home?

Neck pain can often be managed effectively at home with a combination of techniques, such as:

Heat and cold therapy: Applying ice packs during the first 48-72 hours after an injury can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. After this period, using heat, such as a warm shower or heating pad, can help relax and loosen muscles, increasing blood flow to the area.
Gentle stretching and exercises: Engaging in gentle neck exercises, such as neck rolls and shoulder shrugs, can improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
Good posture practices: Maintaining proper posture, especially when sitting for long periods or using electronic devices, can alleviate neck strain.
Stress reduction techniques: Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce muscle tension caused by stress, which often contributes to neck pain.
Supportive sleep environment: Using a cervical pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck can improve sleep posture.