Neck Pain

Neck pain is a common complaint, but the good news is it’s something you don’t have to live with any longer. At Interventional Pain Center in Norman, Oklahoma, anesthesiologist and fellowship-trained interventional pain medicine physician James Stephens, DO, offers highly effective neck pain treatments that restore musculoskeletal functioning and your quality of life. Call the office to learn more about your options, or schedule a visit online today.

What is neck pain?

Neck pain involves tissue damage or pain in your neck joint that may extend into your head or shoulders. It can resolve on its own over time with rest, but sometimes medical intervention is necessary to ease long-lasting neck discomfort. 

Dr. Stephens at the Interventional Pain Center is highly trained in treating all types of pain to enhance your quality of life. He provides surgical and nonsurgical pain relief options based on your needs, lifestyle, and treatment preferences. 

What type of pain occurs in the neck?

Neck pain may present as:

• Aching
• Numbness
• Tingling 
• Burning pain
• Radiating discomfort
• Sharp pain
• Stiffness
• Reduced range of motion
• Muscle soreness
• Weakness
• Headaches 

The discomfort might be mild or severe. The treatment that’s best depends on what’s causing your neck pain and its severity. 

What can lead to neck pain?

The following situations can contribute to neck pain:

• Whiplash
• Car accident injuries
• Work-related injuries 
• Sports injuries
• Strains
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Bulging or herniated discs
• Skeletal irregularities
• Spinal stenosis

• Vertebral compression fractures
• Degenerative disc disease
• Cancer of the spine
• Spine infections
• Fractures
• Sprains
• Heavy lifting
• Age-related wear

If your neck pain is severe or doesn’t resolve within a few days, see Dr. Stephens for an evaluation.

How is neck pain diagnosed?

Dr. Stephens pinpoints the root cause of neck discomfort by asking about your medical history and symptoms, completing a physical exam, and ordering blood tests or imaging procedures. You might need X-rays, an MRI, a CT scan, or additional diagnostic testing that allows him to customize an effective treatment plan.

How is neck pain treated?

Interventional Pain Center offers numerous neck pain treatments, including:

• Bracing 
• Medications 
• Epidural steroid injections
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Spinal fusion
• Vertebral augmentation
• Nerve blocks
• Joint injections
• Kyphoplasty
• Intrathecal pain pump for cancer pain
• Spinal cord stimulation
• Minimally invasive surgeries

Dr. Stephens uses the latest advances in technologies and treatments to enhance neck pain relief and restore optimal musculoskeletal functioning. He may refer you to physical therapy if needed after surgery. You might be a candidate for more than one type of neck pain treatment.

To request a neck pain evaluation at Interventional Pain Center, call the office or book one online today.