What is the best non-surgical way to relieve neck pain?

My patients often ask me for my recommendations on relieving neck pain with conservative (i.e., non-surgical) treatment. Depending on the diagnosis, I create a plan of care for the patient, offering them a number of options so they can choose what works best for them. What works for some may not be the solution for others. Many people will need to utilize a multi-pronged approach to truly feel a difference. There is no one best way to find relief when it comes to neck and/or back pain, and I realize that can be a frustrating thing to hear. Some discomfort is simply a normal part of the aging process. It would be unrealistic and irresponsible for me to promote the idea that pain is completely avoidable.

If you’re experiencing low-level discomfort that isn’t serious enough to derail your daily routine, I recommend seeing your orthopedic physician simply to get ahead of any issues that could be just starting to present themselves. More than likely, they’ll recommend physical therapy and strengthening as a first step. Some lifestyle modifications may be in order. I would not expect that any medication will be suggested.

If your issues are more significant and your pain is disrupting your daily routine, your doctor can offer more aggressive treatment options like injection therapy and the use of anti-inflammatory steroid medications. These can be extremely effective in helping patients be more comfortable and return to the things they’d like to do.

When patients want to discuss non-surgical options to address their pain, my recommendations are as follows:

• Light Exercise/Stretching/Yoga
• NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
• Physical Therapy
• TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
• Chiropractic Care
• Acupuncture
• Steroid Injections

This list is not in order of importance. If you’re opposed to taking medications, then it’s your prerogative to bypass that suggestion. If you don’t feel comfortable being adjusted by a chiropractor, then perhaps try a different option on the list. With that said, this list encompasses the non-surgical options there are available. It’s important to approach this with an open mind and consider at least trying each suggestion at least once.

On the rare occasion that non-surgical options are unsuccessful in treating a neck or spine issue, surgery may be recommended. That said, never assume that neck or back pain automatically mean that you’ll need surgery. Many, if not most, do not. If you do require surgical intervention, finding a surgeon who you feel comfortable with and whose care philosophy you understand and agree with is paramount. Never hesitate to get a second opinion. Do your research, and be sure you’re getting information from reliable sources like hospital systems, reputable orthopedic practices, and qualified journalists.

I actively want my patients to feel better, as does every medical professional. It serves no purpose for me to keep patients in pain. I promise you I’d rather treat a patient once successfully than spend five visits with them and be unable to move the needle at all to help them. I succeed when my patients do – when they feel better, can move more, and are able to return to an active life, I feel incredible satisfaction in my work.

As humans, we are much stronger and more resilient than we can conceive of. Our bodies are able to withstand decades of injuries and a lifetime that likely has less sleep and not as many nutritional meals as we should have had. Pain is unfortunately the price that we pay as we age, and no one is immune. My role as a surgeon is to repair issues where I can, mitigate discomfort with the tools I have available, and enable my patients to be as active and independent as they want to be.