NECK & CERVICAL

Conditions

Facet Joint Syndrome

This condition involves the deterioration of the facet joints, which help stabilize the spine and limit excessive motion. Facet Joint Syndrome occurs when the joints become stressed and damaged, which can happen for a variety of reasons. These can include but are not limited to everyday wear on the body, injury to the back or neck, or due to the degeneration of an intervertebral disc. Depending on the location of the of the affected facet joints, pain may be felt in the neck, shoulders and upper/middle back and may also cause headaches. If the affected joints are in the low back, you may experience pain in the buttocks, back of the thighs and low back.

Spinal Stenosis

The spinal column contains open spaces that create passageways for the spinal cord and the spinal nerves. Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of (or an intrusion into) these openings. This can cause a compression of the nerves. Spinal stenosis most commonly affects the upper and lower regions of the spine. Symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the problem.

Treatments

Facet Joint Injections

The facet joints, found on both sides of the spine, can become painfully irritated or inflamed. A facet joint injection may help diagnose the source of a patient’s pain and can also relieve pain and inflammation.

Stellate Ganglion Block

A stellate ganglion nerve block is an injection that numbs branches of nerves in your neck. This minimally invasive, image-guided procedure helps doctors find and treat a number of problems linked to the nerves. Treatment may require a series of injections.

Regenerative Medicine

If you suffer from joint, tendon, ligament, back, neck or pelvic pain, you may be a candidate for regenerative medicine. Regenerative medicine is an exciting scientific and medical discipline that focuses on tapping into the capacity of the body to restore the functioning of damaged cells, tissues and organs.

Care & Management

If you’re dealing with neck pain, you know how difficult it can be. Based on your doctor’s recommendations, you may be able to find relief through some simple strategies, such as taking over-the-counter pain relievers, applying ice or heat, and ensuring that your mattress and pillow provide adequate support. Your doctor may also recommend other treatments, such as minimally invasive procedures, exercise or physical therapy, depending on your condition.