General Neck Pain

Causes of Neck Pain

Muscle strain or tension can be caused from everyday activities, such as bending over a desk for hours, poor posture while watching TV or reading, positioning your computer monitor too high or too low, sleeping in an uncomfortable position, twisting and turning your neck in a jarring manner while exercising, or lifting objects too quickly or with poor posture. Injury or trauma can result in severe neck injuries, such as vertebral fractures, whiplash, blood vessel injury, and even paralysis.

More serious causes of neck pain are cervical spondylosis, herniated disk, pinched nerves, degenerative disk disease, cervical radiculopathy, small spine fractures caused by osteoporosis, cervical stenosis, or infections such as osteomyelitis, septic discitis, or meningitis.

What You Can Expect at UTHealth Houston Neurosciences

The UTHealth Houston Neurosciences Spine Center brings together a multidisciplinary team of board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeons, neurologists, researchers, and pain management specialists who work together to help provide relief for even the most complex problems. Your team will share insights, leading to better treatment decisions and outcomes.

We first investigate nonsurgical treatment options, including medical management, pain management, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and watchful waiting. When surgery is needed, our neurosurgeons routinely employ innovative minimally invasive techniques. Throughout the treatment process, we will work closely with the doctor who referred you to ensure a smooth transition back to your regular care. While you are with us, you will receive expert care, excellent communication, and genuine compassion.

Neck Pain Specialists

	Joseph Amos, MD		Clinical Assistant Professor
	Ashley Amsbaugh, MD		Clinical Assistant Professor
	Mark Burish, MD		Assistant Professor
	Nadya Dhanani, MD		Assistant Professor
	Hiral Patel, MD		Clinical Assistant Professor

Anatomy of the neck and spine

The spine is divided into the following regions:

• The cervical region (vertebrae C1-C7) encompasses the first seven vertebrae under the skull. Their main function is to support the weight of the head, which averages 10 pounds. The cervical vertebrae are more mobile than other areas, with the atlas and axis vertebra facilitating a wide range of motion in the neck. Openings in these vertebrae allow arteries to carry blood to the brain and permit the spinal cord to pass through. They are the thinnest and most delicate vertebrae.
• The thoracic region (vertebrae T1-T12) is composed of 12 small bones in the upper chest. Thoracic vertebrae are the only ones that support the ribs. Muscle tension from poor posture, arthritis, and osteoporosis are common sources of pain in this region.
• The lumbar region (vertebrae L1-L5) features vertebrae that are much larger to absorb the stress of lifting and carrying heavy objects. Injuries to the lumbar region can result in some loss of function in the hips, legs, and bladder control.
• The sacral region (vertebrae S1-S5) includes a large bone at the bottom of the spine. The sacrum is triangular-shaped and consists of five fused bones that protect the pelvic organs.