Neurological Evaluations for Neck and Back Pain Q & A
Midtown Primary Care Doctors offers advanced neurological evaluations for neck and back pain so patients in New York City can relieve pain and other symptoms that can affect their everyday quality of life.
What types of neurological assessments are used for neck and back pain?
A neurological assessment begins with a complete physical exam and evaluation, which may include range-of-motion and other types of exercises to elicit symptoms. The most common nerve symptoms associated with neck and back pain include:
headache- pain that radiates into the arms or legs
- numbness in the hands or feet
- tingling or burning sensation in the back, neck, arms, legs, buttocks, hands or feet
- weakness or spasms in the areas served by the nerves that pass through the injured area of the spine
- in more advanced cases that involve the legs or arms, motor function can be impaired
When a physical exam fails to find the exact cause of the symptoms, Midtown Primary Care Doctors may order testing to stimulate different nerves in order to check for abnormal responses or diagnostic imaging like x-ray, MRI or CT scan to look for other causes.
What are the most common causes of neck and back pain?
Neck and back pain can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- falls
- car accidents
- sports injuries
- degenerative disc disease
- spondylolisthesis
- disc herniation
- osteoarthritis
This is just a partial list; there are many other causes. The best way to make sure you get the right treatment is to have an evaluation at the first sign of neck or back pain to prevent your condition from becoming more severe.
How are neck and back pain treated?
The treatment will depend on the underlying cause, but many types of neck and back pain can be treated with pain medication, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. Often, a combination of approaches is needed to get the best results. Midtown Primary Care Doctors will determine the best therapeutic options for you based on your specific needs.
Testimonials and Reviews
Love Midtown Primary Care Doctors and staff one of my favorite places on the planet. Extremely knowledgeable and generous with his time and energy as is his staff. I always feel very safe and comfortable when I am there. THANK YOU!!!!
Midtown Primary Care Doctors have been my primary care physicians for years. They are knowledgeable and always thorough. The staff is also fantastic–helpful and easy to reach.