While most neck pain tends to be temporary, if you’re not paying attention to your posture or are continuing to make the same “mistakes” that may have led to your pain or discomfort in the first place, your neck pain is likely to come back from time to time, possibly becoming progressively more severe. By taking some important steps, however, you can improve your odds of enjoying lasting neck pain relief.
Find a Pain Relief Medication That Works Best for You
It may take some experimentation, but finding the right pain relief medication can help with long-term relief for acute neck pain. For chronic neck pain, it’s best to check with your doctor since some medications for more severe neck pain may have side effects associated with long-term use.
Safe Exercise and Physical Therapy
Performing exercises safely (meaning always following proper technique) and regular physical therapy can also lead to long lasting neck pain relief, especially for chronic conditions not necessarily requiring surgery, such as cervical disc disease (a disc anomaly). A physical therapist can help to identify “triggers” that likely result in your neck pain. You’ll learn to avoid such trigger points, either by modifying your activities or properly stretching muscles supporting your neck, shoulders and upper back.
Pay Attention to Your Posture
Poor posture may result in recurring neck pain, especially if you keep putting added stress on the same muscles, tendons and joints that are supporting the neck. Consider your posture while you sleep, too, since lack of proper neck support can result in recurring neck stiffness when you get up each day.
Look into Relaxation Techniques
If your neck pain is linked to depression, counseling may provide much-appreciated long-term relief. When stress contributes to your neck pain, taking up yoga or finding other relaxation techniques that work best for you may be the key to enjoying lasting relief from neck pain.
Meet with a Spinal Specialist
If your neck pain continues to impede your ability to carry out daily activities, it may be time to consult with a spinal specialist. Your doctor may be able to recommend a specialist or spine surgeon in Los Angeles who can see if pain is originating from a specific condition or cause and can provide you with your treatment options. To schedule an in-person consultation with a professional, experienced, and trusted spine surgeon near you, call (310) 828-7757 and request a consultation at The Spine Institute Center for Spinal Restoration.