The available treatments have several objectives:

– Relieve pain in order to improve the quality of life

– Prevent recurrence,

— Delay the course of the disease,

– Treat with surgery when necessary, in order to avoid serious complications.

Many pharmaceuticals can be prescribed to soothe pain and reduce inflammation: analgesics (acetaminophen or paracetamol), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs (Ibuprofen for example), anti-inflammatory creams of local application. NSAIDs should be used with caution due to the side effects that may occur (gastrointestinal disturbances, heart problems).

When the pain is very intense, the doctor may use corticosteroids or opiates (opium derivatives)

La physiotherapy also helps relieve pain and prevent recurrence, with pull-ups on the vertebrotherapy table, massages, stretching exercises, bodybuilding and relaxation of affected areas, learning appropriate gestures not to reactivate pain.   

Wearing a foam collar or the use of a suitable pillow can help relieve pain.

We will use the surgery when serious complications are diagnosed, such as neurological or arterial damage: these are cases where the nerves, the spinal cord or even the arteries are compressed. 

Prevention

When you have already experienced a neck pain crisis, it is strongly recommended to practice physiotherapy, in order to prevent recurrence. The physiotherapist can prescribe adapted stretching and weight training exercises, as well as learn to have a hygiene of movements and postures according to the profession exercised.

Working in front of a computer, for example, requires excellent ergonomics so as not to put too much strain on the neck area.

The Mezière method and osteopathy are an interesting remedy.