Neck Injuries in Buffalo, NY
One commonly overlooked parts of the body is the neck – that is, until it becomes irritated or painful. Neck injuries are some of the most painful injuries you can experience, as your neck holds your head and allows it to move freely. When your neck is injured, you may no longer be able to move your head in the same way than you did before. When you start experiencing neck pain, it may be best to visit a physician to diagnose and treat your neck injuries in Buffalo, NY.
Neck Injury Symptoms
Neck injuries can be frustrating and painful because of the symptoms they offer you. Some of the most common symptoms of neck injuries include difficulty turning your neck, having consistent headaches, experiencing muscle spasms in either the neck or shoulders, having general neck pain and stiffness, or trouble with weakness in the arms, legs, hands, or fingers.
The neck contains part of your spine, and your spine relates to and partially controls the rest of your body. For this reason, if you’re experiencing any neck pain or neck injury symptoms, it’s vital to reach out to your physician.
Common Neck Injuries
There are many different types of neck injuries possible to obtain, but some are more common than others. The most frequently seen neck injuries often include neck sprains, stiff muscles and tendons, pinched nerves, and herniated discs. Neck sprains and stiff muscles are mild neck injuries. Sprains occur when a ligament in the neck is torn, while stiff muscles can be caused by sleeping improperly or turning your head awkwardly or quickly.
Next, pinched nerves are moderate injuries that happen when bone or tendon pushes up against a nerve in your neck which can cause pain, too.
Lastly, herniated discs are the most serious neck injury on this list. A herniated disc occurs when the spinal disc is torn or begins to pop out of the spinal disc itself. Like most neck injuries, herniated discs can appear because of common wear.
Neck Injuries in Buffalo, NY: Treatment Options
No matter what neck injury you have, there is likely a treatment option for you. Common neck injury treatment options include but are not limited to physical therapy, medications, massages, and rest. If you don’t have an injury that requires surgery, physical therapy may be recommended as your first form of treatment.
Physical therapy can help increase the strength and range of motion of your neck. Additionally, your physician may prescribe you medications or recommend you take over the counter anti-inflammatory medications. The less inflamed the area around your neck injury is, the quicker and easier it will be to heal.
Lastly, rest is essential. The more you move a neck injury, the more aggravated it gets. If you take time to rest, your neck has the time it needs to heal without it intensifying. Your treatment option will be dependent on your injury, so it’s essential to discuss your potential options with your physician.
Neck Injury Prevention
The key to dealing with neck injuries is not to get them in the first place if you can help it. Taking preventative measures like exercising your neck, using good posture, sleeping in a good position, and avoid carrying heavy loads. The more aware you are of the strain you put on your neck, the less likely you are to experience a neck injury.
Treat Neck Injuries in Buffalo, NY: Today
Instead of letting your neck injury worsen, it’s vital to visit a physician to identify the best treatment option for you. Medical Care of WNY is a top medical care provider in Western NY.
Our experienced medical professionals can diagnose the cause of your neck pain and begin treating your neck injury as soon as possible. Get back to feeling as good as new and contact Medical Care of WNY to schedule an appointment.
Watch our educational videos to learn more about our treatments!