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Neck Pain Prevention

We all experience neck pain at some point in our lives?- that nagging twinge after a long drive; stiffness after sleeping with the head at an awkward angle; a burning sensation following many hours sitting at the desk at work. Most of the time, neck pain can be attributed to muscle strain. Sometimes, it's caused by nerve compression produced by a degenerative condition within the cervical spine. Whatever the cause, common sense can be one of your most effective tools for neck pain prevention.

Steps to Take for Neck Pain Prevention

The common-sense approach to neck pain prevention means understanding the anatomical structure of the neck and the potential effects of your physical actions. The cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae. The top two vertebrae, known as the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2), form a fulcrum upon which the skull rests and pivots. The other five vertebrae (C3-C7) provide support for the head and are separated by cartilaginous cushions known as intervertebral discs. Muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints also make up the cervical spine anatomy.

A major factor in the functionality of the cervical spine is the strength of the muscles in the neck and shoulders, as well as your general overall health. Here are a few common-sense tips to ensure better physical fitness and to help avoid neck pain:

• Get regular exercise, including weight training to strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles.
• Avoid prolonged poor posture while seated, especially with the shoulders hunched forward or the head tilted downward.
• Maintain a healthy weight by eating a low-fat, low-sodium diet.
• Don’t smoke cigarettes, the ingredients of which constrict blood vessels and have other harmful effects.
• Practice sound body mechanics, especially when lifting heavy objects or participating in sports that require a lot of bending, twisting and explosive movement.

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When Neck Pain Strikes

When pain, tingling, numbness or muscle weakness associated with nerve compression in the cervical spine become debilitating, contact Laser Spine Institute to find out how to rediscover a life without neck or back pain. Our orthopedic specialists perform minimally invasive, outpatient procedures using gentle, endoscopic techniques that are an attractive alternative to traditional, highly invasive neck surgery.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.