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Neck Pain

Douglas Maxey, MD -  - Pain Management Physician

Allay Spine and Pain Management

Douglas Maxey, MD

Pain Management Physician and Anesthesiologist located in McKinney, TX

If you have chronic neck pain or such severe discomfort that you can’t turn your head, it’s time to get professional treatment. At Allay Spine and Pain Management, Douglas Maxey, MD, a board-certified anesthesiologist and pain management physician, diagnoses the cause of your pain and offers state-of-the-art treatments to relieve your pain and help you get back to your regular activities. Call the practice in McKinney, Texas, or schedule a consultation online today for expert treatment for neck pain.

Neck Pain Q & A

What causes neck pain?

Almost everyone has a sore neck occasionally. Neck pain ranges in severity and has many potential causes, including:

  • Injuries like whiplash
  • Muscle tension
  • Herniated discs
  • Stenosis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Osteoporosis
  • Fibromyalgia 
  • Temporomandibular joint disorder

However, one of the most common causes of neck pain is poor posture. The conveniences and comforts of modern life often lead to postural abnormalities that stress the muscles, bones, and connective tissue in your neck. 

For example, the average American spends over five hours a day with their head tilted down to scroll through their phone. Additionally, many people work at computers, but their screens are too high or low, and they have to tilt their heads to see their screens. 

These abnormal tilts pull on your muscles and bones, creating tension and swelling. This can lead to nerve compression and other complications, including headaches and pain in your upper back, shoulders, arms, and hands.


When should I talk to a doctor about neck pain?

While minor neck injuries or sore muscles subside on their own in a couple of days, you should make an appointment with Dr. Maxey if your pain persists for more than a few days. 

You should also make an appointment if your neck pain is so severe that you can’t turn or nod your head, or if your neck pain follows an injury or accident. 


How is the cause of neck pain diagnosed?

Dr. Maxey begins with a review of your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and the details of any potentially related injuries. He examines your neck for signs of inflammation or injury. 

He might ask you to perform some gentle stretches or turn your head so he can see how your pain limits your mobility. In some cases, he orders X-rays, an MRI, electromyography, or nerve conduction studies to learn more about your condition. 


How is neck pain treated?

Following your consultation and exam, Dr. Maxey tailors your treatment program to address your specific condition. Depending on your needs, he might recommend:


  • Medication
  • Physical therapy
  • Epidural steroid injections
  • Facet joint injections
  • Facet joint rhizotomy
  • Occipital nerve blocks
  • Regenerative medicine
  • Spinal cord stimulation

Dr. Maxey often begins with conservative, noninvasive treatments. If this approach doesn’t relieve your pain, he moves on to more advanced therapies. 

Call Allay Spine and Pain Management today or make an appointment online if you have neck pain that interferes with your quality of life. 

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