Having a pain in the neck, could be more than just "a pain in the neck". The neck's job description is more than just to support the head. How else can a person look both ways, give a sidelong glance, or check a rear mirror?

Neck pain is a common complaint as people age, but neck injuries can be uncommonly difficult to deal with. Despite its lofty responsibilities, the neck is less protected than the rest of the spine, which leaves it vulnerable to injuries and disorders that produce pain and restrict motion. Fortunately, most neck pain is temporary. Some people, however, will need to seek medical help to keep their necks freely twisting and turning.

If you've suffered an injury that involves your neck, seek medical attention immediately. Even if your neck pain hasn't been caused by an injury, there are still times when you should seek medical attention when the pain is:

• continuous and persistent
• severe enough to hamper your daily activities
• accompanied by pain that radiates down the arms or legs
• accompanied by headaches, numbness, tingling, or weakness

After a thorough evaluation and diagnosis, your orthopedic surgeon will prescribe the appropriate course of treatment for you, which could range from anti-inflammatory medication, to physical therapy, to bracing, to surgery.

Scheduling an evaluation

To determine what is causing your neck pain and what treatment plan is best for you, contact the Citrus Memorial Health System Physician Referral Line at (352) 637-3337 or call one of our orthopedic surgeons.