If you’re middle-aged or older, it’s likely that you either have had or will experience neck pain at some point. After all, decades of bending, lifting, turning and twisting can really take a toll on your neck. Cervical disc disease is a condition that can cause radiating neck pain, as well as numbness and weakness in your shoulders, arm and hand. This discomfort and loss of mobility can wreak havoc on your career, family and quality of life if not properly diagnosed and treated.
Relief from cervical disc disease in Plano: Dr. Stephen Courtney
If you’re seeking the services of a world-class spine specialist in Plano who is experienced in cervical disc disease, look no further than Dr. Stephen Courtney at the Advanced Spine Center. Selected as one of Dallas’ Best Doctors by D Magazine, Dr. Courtney is known for his straight-forward, honest approach and operates only if clearly indicated with proven techniques, which has earned him an excellent reputation among his professional colleagues, medical peers and patients.
How is cervical disc disease diagnosed?
During your initial consultation with Dr. Courtney, he’ll begin by asking you about your symptoms and then review your medical history. A physical exam will follow, which may include neurological exams. Neck pain and headaches in the back of the head are common symptoms of upper cervical abnormality, and involuntary eye movement can be another sign. Reviewing these signs and symptoms with Dr. Courtney is often the first step in the cervical disorder diagnosis process.
Additional tests may include medical imagining such as an MRI or CT scan. If these scans don’t produce conclusive results, Dr. Courtney may then order another test called myelography. In this test, Dr. Courtney injects a contrast dye and uses an imaging test (such as a CT scan) to illuminate the spaces surrounding the nerves and spinal cord. This will help him determine if your spinal cord is being compressed due to an upper cervical disorder.
What treatment options does Dr. Courtney offer?
As mentioned, Dr. Courtney will only suggest a surgical option if clearly indicated – and non-surgical treatment options have been exhausted. Non-surgical treatments Dr. Courtney may recommend include:
· Rest or lifestyle modification, such as a change in your posture while sitting or driving, a healthier diet, and staying hydrated. Quitting smoking is also beneficial for disc health.
· Pain management with medications or injections
· Ice and/or heat therapy
· Exercise and/or physical therapy
· Manual manipulation by a qualified health professional (i.e. chiropractor)
· Massage therapy
· Electrical stimulation
· Bracing
· Acupuncture
Call Dr. Courtney at Advanced Spine Center in Plano today!
At the Advanced Spine Center, we know that the single most important person in the process of spine care is you, the patient. Well-informed patients are more successful in following through on their treatment and have better outcomes. The first step to success is in knowing what to expect. We invite you to contact us today and schedule a consultation with Dr. Courtney to discuss any questions you may have regarding cervical disc disease or any other spine condition.
When it comes to spine care in Plano, you want and deserve the best-of-the-best!
