Neck or cervical pain can originate from chronic degenerative processes or trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or a work-related injury. It can be isolated to the neck and shoulder area or can sometimes have symptoms radiating into the arms and hands. Our diagnostic approaches to neck pain include physical exams, nerve conduction studies/EMG, and imaging, such as MRIs, x-rays, and CT-scans. Treatment for neck pain is unique to each patient, and can include physical and occupational therapy, medication management, and interventional pain procedures.
There are three types of interventional pain procedures we commonly use with our patients to treat chronic degenerative or injury related pain. These include the following:
Cervical Facet Joint Injections/Medial Branch Blocks
These injections are used for diagnostic and potentially therapeutic purposes to aid in determining the origin of neck pain and to further an appropriate treatment plan.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Once the source of the pain is diagnosed, this procedure is a long-term solution for pain relief. The ablation targets the joint pain and decreases the nerve signal, thus reducing the pain.
Epidural Steroid Injection
These injections provide medication to a generalized area, reducing inflammation and providing pain relief.
Dr. John will spend time with you to determine your individual needs. His diagnostic and physical exam findings will help determine which injection will be most beneficial to address your specific pain symptoms.