There’s a reason we call persistent trouble a “pain in the neck.” Neck pain interferes with almost everything you try to do, even sleeping.
The good news is, it usually goes away on its own. But what happens when literal neck pain is the persistent trouble that won’t go away?
Well, in this case, you need to get checked out by a neck specialist. Furthermore, this is only one sign that you need to see a specialist for neck pain. We’ve listed several more signs below.
Note that many of these signs are symptoms of very serious health problems. Please read through this list now and see a neck specialist right away if you notice any of these signs.
1. The Neck Pain Started After an Injury
If the neck pain started after any type of injury or trauma (car accident, fall, strain) get to a qualified neck specialist immediately. There are two reasons for this.
One: the extent of the damage must be determined. That is, any complications must be addressed before they get worse. Secondly, the injury must be documented in case any legal action is taken later.
2. You Are 50 Years Old or Older
Neck pain when you’re 50 or older could be from a condition that has been developing for many years. The sooner you begin to manage this pain, the better.
You see, it’s possible this pain/condition is not curable, only manageable. If you don’t start treatment now, it could get much worse and stay that way.
3. You Can’t Sleep or Work
Does your neck pain prevent you from sleeping or performing daily functions? Get to a neck specialist now before this causes further injury or complications.
4. You Experience Weak Legs or Incontinence
Neck pain that accompanies weak legs, incontinence, or numbness in your pelvic areas is a possible sign of cauda equina syndrome. This condition is serious and must be treated with emergency surgery.
5. Pain or Tingling Going Down One Side of Your Body
Do you also experience tingling, pain, or numbness on one side of your body? This could be caused by a herniated disc, bone spurs, or some other condition putting pressure on your spinal nerve roots. A neck specialist will tell you for sure.
6. Fever or Any Other Illness Symptoms
A lot of serious illnesses, like meningitis, cause a stiff neck or neck pain. If the neck symptoms are accompanied by swollen glands, fever, or any other signs of illness, get to a neck specialist or general practice doctor right away.
7. The Pain Doesn’t Go Away or Gets Worse
As mentioned, neck pain from non-serious issues, like pinched nerves, goes away on its own within a few days. If the pain doesn’t go away or gets worse, see a neck specialist.
8. The Pain Is Accompanied By Any Other Symptoms
Again, minor neck pain on its own isn’t serious. But if any other symptoms co-occur with your neck pain, they could indicate any number of health problems. See a specialist to find out for sure what’s going on.
See a Neck Specialist Immediately if You Notice These Signs
If you’re experiencing one or more of the symptoms above, don’t hesitate to see a neck specialist. Contact us right now so we can assign your case to one of our qualified specialists immediately.
