Do you need neck pain relief in Chicago? From injuries to infections, there are many possible causes of neck pain. When left unaddressed, neck pain can cause pounding headaches that make it difficult to concentrate and complete day-to-day tasks. In this blog, we’ll examine the unique connection between neck pain and headaches. We’ll also review tips for reducing pain and when you should consult a medical professional.
Understanding the Connection Between Neck Pain and Headaches: Common Causes
While the neck and the head are two different body parts, they’re linked in several ways. Here are some common causes of neck pain and headaches:
- Injuries: The nerves and muscles in the neck are closely connected to the head. If you injure your neck, the pain may extend to your head.
- Muscle tension: Tight or strained neck muscles can radiate pain up to the head, resulting in tension headaches.
- Nerve compression: Conditions such as herniated discs can compress your nerves, which causes both neck pain and headaches.
- Poor posture: Slouching or looking down for extended periods of time strains the neck muscles and joints. It also reduces blood flow to your head, which can cause headaches.
- Medical conditions: Medical conditions that affect the neck and cervical spine, such as arthritis or disc degeneration, can cause nerve irritation, joint inflammation and headaches.
Lifestyle Tips for Preventing Neck Pain and Headaches
Whether your pain is caused by poor posture, tense muscles or some other reason, it’s important not to ignore it. Here are some general lifestyle tips designed to prevent neck pain and headaches:
- Practice good posture: To avoid posture-related pain, keep your head aligned over your shoulders and avoid slouching.
- Set up an ergonomic workspace: Ergonomic workspaces utilize furniture to help maintain good posture and reduce neck pain. This furniture includes chairs with lumbar support, adjustable chairs and standing desks.
- Take breaks: If you have a desk job, try to take breaks every 30-60 minutes. Standing, stretching and moving around help relieve muscle tension.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can cause muscle stiffness and headaches.
- Perform stretches: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises, such as yoga and Pilates, can help build neck and shoulder flexibility.
- Reduce stress: Did you know that mental stress can cause muscle tension? Practicing self-care methods, such as meditation and breathing exercises, can lower stress levels and help relieve neck and head pain.
When to See a Neck Pain Specialist in Chicago
Although lifestyle tips can be effective, they’re not always enough. You should consult a neck pain specialist if you continue to experience pain, or if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Neck stiffness
- Pain that radiates to the shoulders/arms
- Increased light and sound sensitivity
- Pain at the back of the head
- Dizziness or nausea
During your consultation, the neck specialist will start by diagnosing your condition. In addition to reviewing your symptoms, they may ask about your medical history, conduct a physical examination or recommend imaging tests. Once they understand your exact condition, they can create a tailored treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Neck Pain and Headaches in Chicago
Looking for professional neck pain solutions? At MAPS Centers for Pain Control, we offer specialized treatments designed to manage neck pain, alleviate throbbing headaches and improve overall quality of life. Our minimally invasive treatment plans may include a combination of the following:
- Injection-based therapy
- Interventional pain procedures
- Medication management
- Physical therapy
- Meditation and mental wellness practices
We offer double-board certified and fellowship-trained physicians who are highly experienced in treating pain. Our team will start by assessing your unique condition, including your head and neck health. Then, we’ll build a personalized plan that addresses the root cause of your pain, without relying on invasive surgeries. Interested in learning more? Contact our neck doctors in Chicago today!