Neck/Arm Pain
Serving the South Florida and Orlando Areas
Dr. Andreas C. Tomac, MD, PhD, FAANS is a distinguished neurosurgeon specializing in diagnosing and treating Neck/Arm Pain.
What is Neck/Arm Pain?
Neck/arm pain refers to discomfort or pain experienced in the neck region, which may extend into the arms. This type of pain can have various causes and may manifest as a result of issues in the cervical spine (neck area) or related structures. Neck/arm pain can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms. Neck/arm pain can be caused by various factors, including muscle strain, ligament sprain, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, cervical spondylosis, spinal stenosis, or conditions like radiculopathy.
Who can Neck/Arm Pain affect?
Neck/arm pain can affect a broad spectrum of individuals. Factors contributing to its occurrence include:
- Age: Neck/arm pain can be prevalent across different age groups, with certain conditions like degenerative disc disease becoming more common as individuals age.
- Occupation: Jobs involving repetitive motions, prolonged sitting, or activities that strain the neck and upper extremities may increase the risk of developing neck/arm pain.
- Posture: Poor posture, whether related to work habits or daily activities, can contribute to the development of neck/arm pain over time.
- Trauma or Injury: Previous trauma or injury to the neck, such as whiplash from a car accident, can lead to persistent pain and discomfort.
- Underlying Conditions: Individuals with conditions like herniated discs, cervical spondylosis, or spinal stenosis may experience neck/arm pain.
- Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary lifestyles, lack of regular exercise, and obesity can contribute to musculoskeletal issues, including neck/arm pain.
- Genetics: Genetic factors may play a role in predisposing some individuals to conditions affecting the cervical spine.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of neck/arm pain can vary, and individuals may experience:
- Pain: Discomfort or pain in the neck that may radiate into one or both arms. The pain may be sharp, stabbing, or aching.
- Radiating Pain: Pain that extends from the neck into the shoulders, arms, and possibly the hands.
- Numbness and Tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling in the arms or hands.
- Weakness: Weakness in the arms or hands, affecting grip strength or coordination.
- Stiffness: Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the neck.
- Headaches: Some individuals may experience headaches, particularly if the pain originates from the neck.
Treating Neck/Arm Pain
How is Neck/Arm Pain diagnosed?
Diagnosing neck/arm pain involves a comprehensive evaluation, and a neurosurgeon like Dr. Tomac may play a role in the diagnostic process. The steps typically include:
- Medical History: Dr. Tomac and his team gathers a detailed medical history, including information about the onset, duration, and characteristics of the pain, as well as any relevant medical conditions or injuries.
- Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination is conducted to assess the range of motion, reflexes, muscle strength, and any signs of neurological involvement. Dr. Tomac may perform specific tests to identify areas of tenderness or abnormalities.
- Imaging Studies: Imaging tests, such as X-rays, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), or Computed Tomography (CT) scans, may be ordered. These tests provide detailed images of the cervical spine, allowing visualization of the structures and identification of any abnormalities.
- Nerve Conduction Studies (Electromyography – EMG): These studies may be conducted to assess nerve function and identify areas of nerve compression or damage.
- Discography: In some cases, discography may be recommended. This involves injecting a contrast dye into the affected disc to assess its structure and identify areas of leakage.
What treatments are available?
Treatment options for neck/arm pain can vary based on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. A neurosurgeon like Dr. Tomac can provide expertise in both non-surgical and surgical interventions. Common treatment approaches include:
Conservative Treatments:
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to improve neck strength, flexibility, and posture.
- Pain Management: Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants for pain relief.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, particularly for conditions like herniated discs.
Interventional Procedures:
- Nerve Block Injections: Local anesthetic injections to block pain signals from affected nerves.
- Facet Joint Injections: Injections to reduce inflammation in the facet joints of the cervical spine.
Surgical Options:
- Discectomy: Surgical removal of a herniated disc or damaged disc material to relieve pressure on nerves.
- Cervical Fusion: Fusion of cervical vertebrae to stabilize the spine, performed in some cases.
- Artificial Disc Replacement: Replacement of a damaged disc with an artificial one to maintain motion.