Neck pain is a common complaint that can range from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain. While most cases of neck pain are not serious and can be easily managed, there are certain red flags that may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
One red flag for neck pain is the presence of neurological symptoms. These can include weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, difficulty walking or maintaining balance, or problems with coordination. These symptoms may indicate nerve involvement or compression, such as a herniated disc or spinal cord injury, and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Another red flag is the sudden onset of severe neck pain, especially following trauma or an accident. This could indicate a fracture or dislocation of the cervical spine, which is a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Persistent or worsening neck pain despite conservative treatments, such as rest, heat or cold therapy, and over-the-counter pain medications, is another red flag. This could suggest an underlying condition, such as an infection or tumor, and further evaluation is necessary.
If neck pain is accompanied by fever, chills, or night sweats, this may suggest an infection, such as meningitis or a deep neck abscess. These conditions require prompt medical attention.
Unexplained weight loss, especially when associated with neck pain, may be a red flag for a more serious condition, such as cancer. This should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Difficulty swallowing or breathing, along with neck pain, can be a sign of a worrisome condition called cervical osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bones in the neck. Immediate medical attention should be sought.
In conclusion, while most cases of neck pain are not cause for concern, there are specific red flags that may indicate a more serious underlying condition. It is important to promptly seek medical evaluation if any of these red flags are present to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
When should I worry about neck pain?
Contact a health care provider if neck pain: Is severe. Persists for several days without relief. Spreads down arms or legs.
What is a red flag for neck pain?
What are Red Flags for Neck Pain? Seek immediate medical care if neck pain is associated with the following symptoms: Severe pain. Tingling, numbness or weakness in arm, shoulder or hands.
How do you know if neck pain is serious?
Call your doctor if you have neck pain that: Worsens in spite of self-care. Persists after several weeks of self-care. Radiates down your arms or legs.
What are red flags for neck pain?
What are Red Flags for Neck Pain? Seek immediate medical care if neck pain is associated with the following symptoms: Severe pain. Tingling, numbness or weakness in arm, shoulder or hands.
Why do Chiropractors call themselves physicians?
This degree is on par with an MD or a PhD. Slightly longer answer? Yes, chiropractors are doctors of chiropractic medicine and are considered physicians. Though they are unable to write prescriptions like medical doctors, chiropractors can diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions.
Can chiropractors write prescriptions in Illinois?
Chiropractors practicing in the United States are not permitted to prescribe drugs or perform surgery.
What is the scope of practice for a chiropractor in Illinois?
Under Illinois law, doctors of chiropractic possess status as full physicians, including authority to diagnose and treat the full range of human ailments, so long as it is without the use of drugs or operative surgery.
Is a chiropractor a physician in Illinois?
Illinois does not define chiropractic by statute except to state that Chiropractors are physicians licensed “to treat human ailments without the use of drugs and without the use of operative surgery.”
Are Chiropractors considered physicians in Illinois?
Illinois does not define chiropractic by statute except to state that Chiropractors are physicians licensed “to treat human ailments without the use of drugs and without the use of operative surgery.”
