Neck Pain Specialist
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Houston Neurology & Sleep Diagnostic Center
Allen Chu, MD, PhD
Neuromuscular Medicine Specialist & Sleep Medicine Specialist located in Greater Houston, TX
Neck pain is a widespread complaint that can stem from conditions ranging from poor posture to neurological malfunction. At Houston Neurology & Sleep Diagnostic Center in Houston, Texas, Allen Chu, MD, PhD, offers expert diagnosis and treatments to relieve neck pain and address the underlying condition causing it. Call or schedule an appointment online today.
Neck Pain
What causes neck pain?
One of the most common causes of neck pain is your posture. It’s estimated that the average American spends more than 11 hours a day staring at a screen. Whether you’re looking down at your phone, hunched over a desk, or slumped on your couch watching television or something on your tablet or laptop, the posture you take to see a screen can put a significant amount of stress on your neck, which can lead to muscle strain, inflammation, and nerve compression.
Other causes of neck pain include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Herniated discs
- Bone spurs
- Spinal stenosis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Cancer
- Stress
You can reduce your risk of neck pain by using good posture, getting up and walking around every hour or so, and adjusting your workstation to minimize stress on your neck.
When should I talk to a doctor about neck pain?
In many cases, neck pain subsides after a day or two of rest and at-home care such as heating pads, ice packs, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. However, if your pain doesn’t start to go away after a few days of rest or if you have any numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms, hands, or face, make an appointment with Dr. Chu right away.
What testing can diagnose the cause of my neck pain?
At Houston Neurology & Sleep Diagnostic Center, Dr. Chu offers comprehensive exams and diagnostic testing to identify the root cause of your neck pain. During your exam, he asks about your symptoms, lifestyle, and general health. He may feel your neck or guide you through some gentle stretches to see if your range of motion is limited and to gauge your pain.
Dr. Chu may also order diagnostic tests including X-rays, MRIs, electromyograms, or nerve conduction studies to collect more information about your condition.
What is the treatment for neck pain?
Dr. Chu creates customized treatment plans to relieve your pain and heal the condition causing it. Depending on your needs, he may recommend physical therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), or anti-inflammatory medication. You may also benefit from steroid injections or treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation, to resolve nerve pain.
If you’re living with neck pain, call Houston Neurology & Sleep Diagnostic Center or schedule a consultation online today for expert, personalized care.
