Neck Pain Specialist
Tom Macek, MD
Board Certified Pain Management & Board Certified Anesthesiology located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Too many men and women shrug off neck pain as a part of daily life. When the pain persists or becomes too much to bear, turn to Dr. Tom Macek, a highly regarded pain management specialist serving the greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida, area. Dr. Macek has the skill and training needed to accurately diagnose and treat all types of neck pain, helping you find lasting relief and a return to healthy function. Schedule a visit today using the online tool or by calling the office.
Neck Pain Q&A
What causes neck pain?
Your neck is a part of your body that gets little attention until something goes wrong. The uppermost portion of your spine, called your cervical spine, plays essential roles in supporting your head, enabling flexibility, and protecting your spinal cord.
Your neck is made up of a network of bones, tendons, muscles, ligaments, nerves, and soft tissues. When something goes wrong with any of these components, significant pain and limited head mobility can result.
Neck pain has many causes, including:
- Muscle strain
- Traumatic injury
- Certain diseases
- Joint degeneration
- Nerve compression
Occasional neck pain that improves after a day or two of self-care is usually nothing to be concerned about. If your pain is severe or lingers, however, schedule an appointment with Dr. Macek.
Can I prevent neck pain?
Some types of neck pain are unavoidable, like being involved in a car accident or other unexpected injury. There are many ways, however, to reduce your risk of other types of neck pain.
Research suggests that a lifestyle involving lots of time sitting in one position can lead to neck pain and other health issues. If you work at a desk, be sure to take plenty of breaks, stretch, and maintain an active lifestyle. Make your workspace more ergonomic by adjusting your chair and computer monitor.
How is neck pain treated?
Physical therapy can relieve pain and strengthen your neck to prevent future injury. Your therapy might include electrical stimulation, heat, ice, and postural adjustments.
Short-term immobilization can relieve pressure on your cervical spine and give your body a chance to heal. Steroid injections can reduce swelling and pain, and can help you tolerate physical therapy.
Medication may also play a role in treating your neck pain. Muscle relaxants, pain medications, and even certain antidepressants can all reduce pain.
To learn more about these and other neck pain treatments, schedule an appointment with Dr. Macek today.