Suggest Treatment For Pain At The Base Of Neck

Posted on Sat, 29 Aug 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 29 Aug 2015 Answered on

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had pain at the base of my neck for over3 weeks
Tried ice, heat, pain meds, neck exercises and bought a new temperpudic pillow
still hurts everyday. what could be causing my pain?

Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Read below.

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I am sorry about the pain you are in.

Considering the location of the pain and your age the most probable cause is neck arthritis, inflammatory changes in the vertebrae, joints and ligaments which are common with chronic degenerative changes of the spine with age.

Of course the diagnosis should by supported by imaging, starting from the simplest one a cervical X-ray.

Regarding the management your doctor is correct in prescribing physical therapy which is very important. It is unfortunate that you couldn't get an earlier appointment.
Among other measures a soft cervical collar can help. Apart from usual painkillers (like Ibuprofen) muscle relaxants may also provide some benefit. Tramadol is another pain killer used when the above are not enough.

I remain at your disposal for further questions.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar