How Do I Know If My Neck Pain is Serious?

Neck pain can occur for a couple of different reasons. In many cases, the pain isn’t serious and will go away on its own after a few hours or after taking a hot bath and applying muscle relaxants. In some cases, however, pain in the neck can be symptomatic of degenerative conditions or other serious problems. At The Neuro & Spine Wellness Center, we encourage you to come in for an appointment if you are concerned about neck pain or injury related to your neck.

Neck Pain Resulting from Injury or Illness

If you experience pain or discomfort in your neck following an accident or injury, it’s important to seek medical attention. This type of pain can be symptomatic of a serious injury that requires surgery or other intensive treatment. It’s common to first experience symptoms of neck pain a day or two after a car accident, fall, or other injury.

If you are experiencing pain in the neck along with another illness, it’s vital that you see a doctor immediately. This type of pain can be the sign of meningitis or other serious diseases.

Persistent Pain in the Neck

In many cases, minor pains in the neck go away when you take ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain relievers. You may also get relief from using hot compresses or applying muscle relaxant cream to your neck. If these remedies work, your pain probably is not serious. However, if you are experiencing pain that doesn’t respond to these treatments or that continues to come back over the course of several days, you may have a more serious problem.

Symptoms of Weakness

If you experience weakness or numbness in the hands, feet, legs, or arms along with the pain in your neck, contact your doctor immediately. You may be suffering from spinal problems, problems with your nerve endings, or other serious problems that require medical attention.

Whether you require Frisco spine surgery or other treatment for neck pain, The Neuro & Spine Wellness Center can help resolve your issues with pain in the neck, back, spine and more. Call us at 214-494-0455 or contact us online to set up an appointment.