Which Doctor To Consult For Neck And Shoulder Pain?

Which Doctor To Consult For Neck And Shoulder Pain
The Orthopedist — Neck Pain Specialist – Neck Pain Center When it comes to, many patients consider orthopedic care the gold standard. That’s because orthopedists are specifically trained to deal with problems involving the musculoskeletal system — the network of muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and bones that support your body and allow movement — problems within the musculoskeletal system often cause neck pain.

  • At the Orthopedist’s Office: Specialized Training Orthopedists, also referred to as orthopedic surgeons, are medical doctors with extensive training.
  • A typical orthopedist has completed up to 14 years of formal education, including college, medical school, and five years of postgraduate work including residency at a major medical center, with the option for further specialization in a field like pediatric orthopedics, sports medicine, or a certain area of the body, such as the spine or knee.

To find an orthopedist, first ask your primary care physician for a referral. You also can go to, the Web site of the, the professional association for orthopedists, where you will find a searchable database. At the Orthopedist: Getting a Diagnosis The cervical spine (the neck portion) is made up of vertebrae (bones), disks (shock-absorbing tissue between the vertebrae), ligaments (thick, band-like tissue that connects the bones), muscles, spinal cord, and nerves.

Get your complete medical history, including any previous problems you’ve had with your neck and any other illnesses or injuries that might have contributed to your current situationPerform a physical examination that can include an evaluation of your neck motion and how severe your neck pain has becomePossibly test the function of the nerves and muscles in your arms and legs to see if there are nerve problems related in your neck painConsider ordering X-rays or other imaging procedures to evaluate the bones, disks, spinal cord, nerve roots, and muscles in your neck, as well as blood tests

At the Orthopedist: Getting Treatment After the cause of your neck pain has been established, your orthopedist will recommend a course of treatment that may include:

Rest. Much of the time, neck pain can be resolved, at least in part, just by resting for a few days and being careful not to engage in activities that strain neck muscles, joints, or ligaments. Medication. Drugs to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and relieve pain are also among the most effective treatments for neck pain. Immobilization. To help you heal and prevent re-injury, your orthopedist might recommend that you wear a for a certain amount of time. Physical therapy and exercise. Your orthopedist might refer you to a physical therapist who will customize a program of to relieve your neck pain and help prevent future problems. Surgery. In rare cases, the orthopedist might recommend surgery. This may be necessary if you’ve suffered a herniated disk (the disk protrudes outward) in your spine or if some other problem is putting pressure on your spinal cord or nerve roots.

To ensure that your neck condition is properly treated, it’s important that you follow your orthopedist’s instructions closely, resting and taking medication as recommended. : The Orthopedist — Neck Pain Specialist – Neck Pain Center

Contents

What type of doctor treats neck and shoulder pain?

Preparing for your appointment – You might initially contact your health care provider about your neck pain. You then might be referred to:

  • A doctor who specializes in nonoperative treatment of musculoskeletal conditions (physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist)
  • A doctor who specializes in arthritis and other diseases that affect the joints (rheumatologist)
  • A doctor who specializes in treating nerve-related disorders (neurologist)
  • A doctor who operates on bones and joints (orthopedic surgeon)

When should I see a doctor for neck and shoulder pain?

Schedule an office visit Call your doctor if you have neck pain that: Worsens in spite of self-care. Persists after several weeks of self-care. Radiates down your arms or legs.

What is the best treatment for neck and shoulder pain?

Simple tips, home stretches and exercises to relieve neck and shoulder pain. – Along with other types of chronic pain, neck and shoulder pain can be treated with a combination of natural therapies and healthy practices, Hot and cold therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, and healthy posture are top recommendations.

What do you call a doctor who specializes in neck?

What is an Otolaryngologist – Head and Neck Surgeon? – An otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeon is a Doctor of Medicine who specializes in disorders of the head and neck, particularly those disorders related to the ears, nose and throat. The word “oto-rhino-laryngology” comes from the Greek words – “oto” for ear, “rhino” for nose and “laryn” for throat.

Should I go to neurologist or orthopedist for neck pain?

What Does an Orthopedic Doctor Do? – An orthopedic doctor’s main focus is narrower than a neurologist’s. The better part of an orthopedic doctors’ day is spent on, back, and neck. They also follow their patient from the start of treatment all the way through to recovery.

Who is the best professional to see for neck pain?

What kind of doctor should you see? – “There are two types of doctors that typically treat neck pain: neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons,” Chun said. “Neurosurgeons diagnose and treat disorders affecting the nervous system — the delicate and complex command, control and communication network in the body that’s made up of the brain, spine and neurovascular system.

What kinds of minimally invasive procedures do you offer?How many neck surgeries have you performed?What is the range of cervical care you provide?What if there is a neurovascular issue?Do you use the latest technologies such as image guidance, computer modeling and navigation?Do you treat the spinal cord itself?Do you collect data on patient outcomes and participate in the national registry that tracks results by procedure?

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“Choosing the right doctor for you and your neck pain shouldn’t be a pain in the neck,” Chun said. “But, be sure to do your due diligence. You — and your neck — are way too important.” Admin 2021-04-08T17:03:12-04:00

What kind of shoulder pain is usually associated with a neck issue?

Pinched nerve (cervical radiculopathy) – A pinched nerve in your neck can cause pain that radiates toward your shoulder. This is also known as cervical radiculopathy, Cervical radiculopathy most often comes from changes in your spine due to aging or injury.

  • tingling or numbness in your fingers or hand
  • weakness in the muscles of your arm, shoulder, or hand

What causes neck and shoulder pain at the same time?

Muscle strain – Several muscles are connected to both the neck and shoulder, such as the levator scapulae and trapezius. When one of these muscles becomes strained, pain and stiffness may be felt in both the neck and shoulder. Even in cases where a muscle strain develops in only the neck or shoulder, the pain may be referred to a nearby body region. See Neck Strain: Causes and Remedies

What does a neurologist do for neck pain?

2) A neurologist is highly specialized in diagnosing back pain and neck pain, and in assessing risks and treatment options. – Every back pain and neck pain patient is unique, with different degrees of problems associated with a bone or disc abnormality.

  • A neurologist is trained to discover the causes of symptoms, as well as using EMG testing to assess the injury to nerves and whether it is reversible in the short and long term.
  • However, conflicts in assessment can come in if a neurologist sees a patient sent to them by one of their surgical friends working in the same hospital system.

On the one hand, he/she has a primary duty to the patient to provide the best care possible. On the other, the neurologist’s salary might be paid by the hospital system, which receives compensation, as does the surgeon, when surgery is done. To have a true and unbiased second opinion about whether surgery is necessary, it’s best for you to see an independent neurologist or, at least, one in another hospital system.

How long does it take for neck and shoulder pain to go away?

Neck and Shoulder Pain: Causes, Management, and Prevention Strategies Neck and shoulder pain can result in significant discomfort for patients, which affects their quality of life, can decrease work productivity, and increase outpatient visits and the emotional and financial burden on patients.1 Although the causes of both conditions may differ, treatment options are generally similar.

Neck pain symptoms include difficulty moving the head, headaches, muscle spasms and tightness, and pain that worsens when holding the head in place for long periods, such as when driving or working on a computer.2 Shoulder pain can develop from the shoulder joint or any of the surrounding ligaments, muscles, or tendons.2 Pharmacists can play an important role in managing patients with neck and shoulder pain and providing prevention counseling tips.

CAUSES The neck can be susceptible to conditions and injuries that may cause pain and restrict motion. Similarly, the shoulder is prone to injury because it is a mobile joint with a large range of movement. Neck and shoulder pain can have a variety of causes (see table).

  1. MANAGEMENT Neck pain Mild to moderate neck pain usually resolves within 2 to 3 weeks with OTC therapies.
  2. Patients should seek medical care when neck pain is continuous and persistent, severe, accompanied by pain radiating down the arms or legs, or includes headaches, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
  3. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used as OTC neck pain management medications.3,5 Ice or moist heat can also be applied to the neck.

Pharmacists should tell patients that non-aspirin NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular adverse events and should therefore be used at the lowest possible dose for the shortest duration of therapy.6 Patients using acetaminophen should not exceed the maximum daily dose of 4000 mg/day.

  • Remind individuals not to use OTC acetaminophen products if they are taking prescription medications that also contain acetaminophen as the active ingredient.
  • Educate patients to read the drug facts label on OTC medications care- fully, especially combination products, as these may contain acetaminophen.

Physical therapy can offer neck-strengthening exercises to help ease pain and prevent recurrence.3,5 Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) involves placing electrodes on the skin near painful areas to deliver tiny electrical impulses that may decrease pain.5 Traction is another treatment method that involves using an air bladder, pulleys, or weights to gently stretch the neck, which may help relieve pain.3 Steroid injections should be reserved for pain not resolved by other methods, such as OTC products or physical therapy.

  • Shoulder Pain Shoulder pain may be treated with similar methods as neck pain, including acetaminophen, heat or ice applied to the area, and NSAIDs.4 Physical therapy can also help.
  • The condition known as frozen shoulder usually resolves on its own within 12 to 18 months.7 For pain associated with frozen shoulder that has not resolved, corticosteroid injections may help decrease pain and improve shoulder mobility.

Shoulder manipulation can also be performed with a general anesthetic to help loosen tightened tissue. Alternative treatments include acupunc- ture or TENS to help relieve frozen shoulder pain.7 Prevention Strategies Prevention is key for neck and shoulder pain issues.

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Pharmacists can play an important role in recommending lifestyle modifications. Patients should use good posture when sitting and standing to ensure that their shoulders are in a straight line over the hips with the ears directly above the shoulders.3,4 Encourage individuals to take frequent breaks to stretch the neck and shoulders, especially for those traveling long distances or those who spend a good part of the day at a computer.

Smoking can increase the risk of developing neck pain, so smoking cessation counseling is important. Patients should also avoid tucking the phone between the ear and shoulder, as this can increase the risk of neck and shoulder pain. Instead, encourage them to use a headset or speakerphone.

  • Educate patients to avoid carrying heavy bags, as this can also cause neck strain.
  • Sleeping in a good position, such as with a small pillow under the neck, is also essential to ensure that the head and neck align with the body.3,4 All these strategies may help prevent neck and shoulder pain.® Jennifer Gershman, PharmD, CPh, is a drug information pharmacist and Pharmacy Times®contributor who resides in South Florida,

REFERENCES 1. AAPM facts and figures on pain. The American Academy of Pain Medicine web- site. painmed.org/patientcenter/facts_on_pain.aspx. Accessed July 3, 2018.2. Neck and shoulder pain. Cleveland Clinic website. my.clevelandclinic.org/health/ symptoms/11978-neck-and-shoulder-pain.

Accessed July 3, 2018. Updated April 6, 2017.3. Neck pain. Mayo Clinic website. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neck-pain/ symptoms-causes/syc-20375581. Accessed July 7, 2018.4. Mayo Clinic staff. Shoulder pain. Mayo Clinic website. mayoclinic.org/symptoms/ shoulder-pain/basics/definition/sym-20050696. Accessed July 7, 2018.5.

Blanpied PR, Gross AR, Elliott JM, et al. Neck pain: revision 2017. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther.2017;47(7):A1-A83. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2017.0302.6. FDA drug safety communication: FDA strengthens warning that non-aspirin non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause heart attacks or strokes.

Can chiropractor fix neck pain?

Does chiropractic treatment help neck pain? – Chiropractors are primary health care providers who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal conditions, including the treatment of neck pain. Chiropractors commonly treat headaches, neck pain, back pain and other symptoms stemming from spinal problems. Which Doctor To Consult For Neck And Shoulder Pain There is considerable high-quality evidence to show that patients who experience neck pain (both acute and chronic) show statistically significant pain-level improvements following chiropractic spinal manipulation. This type of treatment has been found to be more effective than many other methods, such as medication or physical therapy.

Should I see an orthopedist for neck pain?

2. AN ORTHOPEDIST TREATS BACK AND NECK PAIN – Almost everyone has experienced back or neck pain at some point in their life. Even a minor backache can cause painful movement and an inability to work productively. Back pain is one of the leading reasons people call out sick to work.

What does a chiropractor do for neck pain?

Neck Adjustments – A neck adjustment (also known as cervical manipulation) is a precise procedure applied to the joints of the neck, usually by hand. A neck adjustment works to improve the mobility of the spine and to restore range of motion; it can also increase movement of the adjoining muscles.

Patients typically notice an improved ability to turn and tilt the head, and a reduction of pain, soreness and stiffness. Of course, your chiropractor will develop a program of care that may combine more than one type of treatment, depending on your personal needs. In addition to manipulation, the treatment plan may include mobilization, massage or rehabilitative exercises, or something else.

: Neck Pain and Chiropractic

Is neck pain a neurological problem?

Neurological back and neck pain is pain that affects your nervous system. This type of pain is more than muscle aches, it may be a symptom of a neurological disorder. It’s crucial to understand the difference between neurological back and neck pain and normal back and neck pain that can occur in the muscles.

Should I go to doctor or physio with neck pain?

When do I see a physio, and when do I see a doctor? There are often times in life when we get pain and just don’t know whether to see a doctor or go directly to the physiotherapist. Here in New Zealand physiotherapists can lodge ACC claims directly without you having to see a doctor first.

  1. But how do you know? Here we have prepared a simple list of questions to help you decide who should be your first phone call, Back In Action Physiotherapy or a doctor.
  2. Are you suddenly bleeding profusely, have 10/10 pain that is un-relenting, or your limb is distorted? Go to a Dr immediately, in-fact go straight to the hospital or a 24 hours medical centre.

Do you have pain that is 9 or 10/10 and there is no position or movement that can ease it slightly (even to a 7/10)? You will need to see a doctor for pain relief. They may refer you to a physiotherapist for treatment once your pain is under better control.

  • Do you have night pain that can not be relieved by rolling over, moving to a different position, or taking over-the-counter pain medication? Once again, you will need to see a doctor to get your pain and inflammation under control before seeing a physiotherapist.
  • Have you done this injury before and it feels similar and the doctor just referred you straight to a physiotherapist? Call your physiotherapist and during your initial session, they can help you fill out the appropriate forms.

Start your rehab immediately. Have you had a niggling injury that just isn’t going away? Does it come and go throughout the day but you can sleep through the night fairly easily? Is it stopping you perform your best at home or in your chosen sport? Call your physiotherapist and they can help you figure out the cause of the discomfort.

They will help you return to full daily living without pain again. They can also give you some home exercises and stretches so you can help yourself if the pains return. Does your child get pain whenever they exercise or by the end of a school day? This pain is usually in the knees or ankles and may be related to a sudden increase in height.

Call your physiotherapist and they can assess your child’s biomechanics (the way they move). We also look at training load to see if there is a physical cause for your child’s pain. Physiotherapists can give you advice on home exercises, stretches and treatment techniques so you can help them as well.

  1. It is important for your child to be seen by a physiotherapist so they do not end up with long term pain or compensatory injuries.
  2. They can often continue with a level of activity that is appropriate for them specifically.
  3. If you see your doctor and they diagnose growing pains we recommend you also see a physiotherapist.
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The therapist will help prevent further damage or compensatory postures and return to sport better, faster. Have you hurt yourself but your pain or swelling has come on a day or more later? Call a physiotherapist and book an appointment. We see this commonly in our clinic where patients are able to continue playing their sport or going about their normal daily business but do not realise they have injured themselves until a bit later on.

  1. If you are in discomfort we can help you so give us a call.
  2. Have you had an injury for years but now you just live with it thinking nobody can help? Give us a call at Back In Action Physiotherapy.
  3. We are highly skilled therapists who look at your whole body to determine the cause of discomforts and injuries so we can often help you get better.

So if you have made it to the bottom and you landed on ‘Call your physiotherapist’ then give us at Back In Action Physio a call. We are on 021 438825, or text, or email to or message us on Facebook. We will get you booked in and on the mend as soon as possible.

  • Are you still unsure? Give us a call and we can give you some free advice over the phone.
  • If for some reason you have come to see us but you should go and see your doctor as well, then we can refer you.
  • We can easily refer you back to your GP, directly to a Sports Doctor, surgeon, podiatrist, and even directly for an ultrasound or x-ray.

We look forward to meeting you and helping you get better, faster! : When do I see a physio, and when do I see a doctor?

Can neck pain cause neurological problems?

Cervical instability is very reversible cause of many neurological symptoms and syndromes.

What does a neurologist do for neck pain?

2) A neurologist is highly specialized in diagnosing back pain and neck pain, and in assessing risks and treatment options. – Every back pain and neck pain patient is unique, with different degrees of problems associated with a bone or disc abnormality.

  • A neurologist is trained to discover the causes of symptoms, as well as using EMG testing to assess the injury to nerves and whether it is reversible in the short and long term.
  • However, conflicts in assessment can come in if a neurologist sees a patient sent to them by one of their surgical friends working in the same hospital system.

On the one hand, he/she has a primary duty to the patient to provide the best care possible. On the other, the neurologist’s salary might be paid by the hospital system, which receives compensation, as does the surgeon, when surgery is done. To have a true and unbiased second opinion about whether surgery is necessary, it’s best for you to see an independent neurologist or, at least, one in another hospital system.

Should I see an orthopedist for neck pain?

2. AN ORTHOPEDIST TREATS BACK AND NECK PAIN – Almost everyone has experienced back or neck pain at some point in their life. Even a minor backache can cause painful movement and an inability to work productively. Back pain is one of the leading reasons people call out sick to work.

Do chiropractors help with neck pain?

Does chiropractic treatment help neck pain? – Chiropractors are primary health care providers who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal conditions, including the treatment of neck pain. Chiropractors commonly treat headaches, neck pain, back pain and other symptoms stemming from spinal problems. Which Doctor To Consult For Neck And Shoulder Pain There is considerable high-quality evidence to show that patients who experience neck pain (both acute and chronic) show statistically significant pain-level improvements following chiropractic spinal manipulation. This type of treatment has been found to be more effective than many other methods, such as medication or physical therapy.

What’s causing my neck and shoulder pain?

– Neck and shoulder pain is usually the result of strains and sprains from overexertion or bad posture. Sometimes this pain will go away on its own. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also treat the pain. Sometimes neck and shoulder pain is due to a fracture in the bones of your shoulder.