Don't Ignore Neck Pain, Have a Professional Get to The Root of the Cause 

We all experience a stiff neck every now and then. Whether it’s from sleeping in a weird position or spending too much time hunched over a screen, there are countless reasons neck pain can arise. However, when neck pain lingers, worsens, or keeps coming back, it’s time to stop ignoring it. What seems like a minor annoyance could be pointing to a more serious issue. 

At Cleaver Medical Group Interventional Pain in Cumming, Dahlonega, and Dawsonville, Georgia, our board-certified specialist Miranda Reed Cleaver, DO, and the team can help you get to the bottom of your neck pain with a professional evaluation so you can understand what’s really going on and how to treat it. 

What causes neck pain? 

Neck pain can stem from a variety of underlying issues, some more serious than others. While it’s often related to posture or tension, it can also signal deeper structural or neurological problems. Common causes include: 

Muscle strain

Poor posture, stress, or repetitive movements can overwork your neck muscles, leading to tension and soreness. 

Herniated discs or misalignment 

Discs or vertebrae out of place can press on nerves, causing sharp pain or numbness. 

Arthritis or disc degeneration 

Age-related wear-and-tear can lead to joint stiffness, inflammation, and chronic neck pain. 

Whiplash or injury 

Sudden movements from accidents or falls can strain your neck muscles and ligaments, often leading to delayed pain. 

Nerve compression 

Swelling or spinal issues may compress your nerves, causing radiating pain, weakness, or tingling. 

Underlying conditions 

In rare cases, infections, tumors, or autoimmune diseases may be the root cause of your persistent neck pain. 

When to see a specialist 

Sure, a little soreness after a long workday might not be cause for concern, but some signs suggest it’s time for you to schedule an appointment with us. Don’t ignore neck pain if you notice: 

• Pain lasting more than a few days or getting worse
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in your arms or hands
• Limited range of motion
• Headaches that start at the base of your skull 
• Pain after a fall, accident, or sudden movement 
• Pain with fever, fatigue, or weight loss 

These could be signs of nerve involvement, inflammation, or a more serious underlying issue that needs medical attention. 

Why getting to the root matters 

Masking your pain with over-the-counter meds or using a heat pad might bring short-term relief, but it won’t fix what’s actually causing the problem. The longer you ignore chronic or recurring neck pain, the more likely it is to lead to complications like nerve damage or even long-term disability. 

Seeing a professional helps you get an accurate diagnosis, understand the origin of your pain, explore treatment options, and ultimately prevent future flare-ups with the proper training and lifestyle adjustments. Getting help early means more effective treatment and relief. 

Small changes that make a big difference 

While professional care is key, there are also steps you can take at home to support a healthier neck and prevent future issues. Try the following tips: 

• Check and adjust your posture
• Use a supportive pillow 
• Take breaks from screens
• Adjust your workspace to keep screens at eye level
• Stay active to keep your neck strong 

Even small changes can add up to major relief when they’re part of a comprehensive plan. 

In the end, neck pain isn’t something you should just live with or ignore. Whether it’s a dull ache or sharp, persistent pain, your body is trying to tell you something. The sooner you listen, the sooner you can feel like yourself again. 

If you’re ready to address your concerns and find relief, call us at 770-872-6179 or use our online booking tool to schedule an appointment with our team today.