Neck and Back Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery

Q: Neck and Back Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery

Hello： Thank you for your inquiry. <br>(1) Are the discomforts in the shoulders, neck, and back all caused by cervical spine abnormalities, poor posture, or could there be other underlying causes? The most common reason for shoulder, neck, and back pain is poor posture. <br>Howev

Discomfort in the shoulders, neck, and back?

Dear Dr.
Lai,
I am currently writing a thesis and often need to use the computer for long periods.
Recently, I experienced discomfort in my shoulders, neck, and back (muscle soreness), so I went to the hospital for an examination.
The X-ray results showed that the physiological curvature of my cervical spine has disappeared (it has become straight), and the intervertebral spaces between the third and fourth cervical vertebrae are slightly narrower than those in other areas.
However, the doctor informed me that there seems to be no concern about nerve compression based on the X-ray.
I was advised to correct and maintain proper posture and to avoid holding the same position for extended periods.
I would like to ask the doctor the following questions:
1.
Is the discomfort in my shoulders, neck, and back primarily caused by the abnormality in my cervical spine, poor posture, or could it be due to other factors?
2.
Can the aforementioned symptoms improve or even return to normal through correction, maintaining proper posture, and performing moderate stretching exercises and heat therapy? Is it possible for the physiological curvature of the cervical spine to be restored?
3.
Generally, how long does it take to see results from the rehabilitation and heat therapy mentioned above?
Finally, thank you for taking the time to read my questions, and I appreciate your response.

Wang Tongxue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/12/15

Dr. Lai Yanting reply Rehabilitation

Hello: Thank you for your inquiry.
(1) Are the discomforts in the shoulders, neck, and back all caused by cervical spine abnormalities, poor posture, or could there be other underlying causes? The most common reason for shoulder, neck, and back pain is poor posture.
However, the following four conditions should raise suspicion for more serious issues (such as nerve compression, spinal tumors, infections, or fractures): 1.
Fever or weight loss.
2.
Weakness or numbness in the limbs that affects walking.
3.
Dysfunction in bowel or bladder control.
4.
Pain that disrupts normal activities or wakes you up at night.
(2) Can the aforementioned symptoms improve or even return to normal through correction, maintaining proper posture, and performing moderate stretching exercises and heat therapy? Is it possible for the physiological curvature of the cervical spine to be restored? It should be possible.
(3) Generally, how long does it take to see results from the rehabilitation and heat therapy mentioned above? Typically, it takes about 1-2 months.
Finally, I wish you health and happiness!

Reply Date: 2009/12/15

More Info

Understanding neck and back pain is essential, especially for individuals who spend long hours at a computer, as you mentioned in your inquiry. Your symptoms of shoulder, neck, and back discomfort, along with the X-ray findings of a loss of cervical lordosis (the natural curve of the neck) and slight narrowing of the intervertebral discs at the C3 and C4 levels, suggest that your posture and daily habits may significantly contribute to your discomfort.

1. Causes of Discomfort: The discomfort in your neck, shoulders, and back can indeed stem from several factors. Poor posture, especially during prolonged computer use, can lead to muscle strain and tension in the neck and upper back. This is often exacerbated by the loss of the natural curvature of the cervical spine, which can place additional stress on the muscles and ligaments. Other potential causes could include muscle imbalances, stress, or even underlying conditions such as cervical spondylosis or disc degeneration, although your X-ray does not indicate nerve compression at this time. It’s important to consider a holistic view of your health, including lifestyle factors, ergonomic setup, and physical activity levels.

2. Improvement through Corrective Measures: Correcting your posture and incorporating regular stretching and strengthening exercises can significantly improve your symptoms. Maintaining a neutral spine position while sitting, using ergonomic furniture, and taking frequent breaks to stretch can help alleviate muscle tension. Heat therapy can also be beneficial for relaxing tight muscles. Regarding the recovery of cervical lordosis, while some individuals may regain their natural curve with consistent corrective measures and physical therapy, others may not fully revert to their original curvature. However, the goal should be to alleviate pain and improve function rather than solely focusing on restoring the curvature.

3. Timeline for Recovery: The time it takes to see improvements can vary widely among individuals. Generally, with consistent adherence to a rehabilitation program that includes posture correction, stretching, and strengthening exercises, many people begin to notice improvements within a few weeks. However, for some, it may take several months to achieve significant relief and functional improvement. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider can help monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

In conclusion, your symptoms are likely multifactorial, with posture playing a significant role. By implementing corrective strategies and maintaining an active lifestyle, you can improve your condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation, including MRI, may be warranted to rule out any underlying issues not visible on X-ray. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or exercise regimen to ensure it is appropriate for your specific situation. Thank you for your thoughtful questions, and I wish you the best in your recovery and research endeavors.

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