Back and neck pain are the most common pain complaints people have when going to the doctor. There are many reasons for pain in the back and neck. They are usually caused by similar things however the exact mechanism of injury will either cause pain to the back, the neck or to both areas.
Back Pain Causes
- Work injury
- Auto injury
- Fall
- Lifting wrong – usually lifting something too heavy or lifting and then twisting.
- Disease process – tumor, infection etc.
Neck Pain Causes
- Work injury
- Auto injury – may cause whiplash
- Fall
- Hitting your head
- Disease process – tumor, infection, etc.
Treatment for Back and Neck Pain
First, make sure that the cause of the pain is properly diagnosed by a doctor. The most common treatments include:
- Ice pack
- Heat pack
- Chiropractic
- Medication – pain medication, muscle relaxants
- Natural muscle relaxers
- Topical Analgesics
- Exercise – make sure you get approval from your doctor before beginning exercise program.