What Are The Signs That Patients Need To See A Neurosurgeon For Neck And Back Pain

One of the most common issues experienced by people in today’s busy and stressful times is neck and back pain. Long hours of sitting straight in front of your laptop or desktop often result in these pains. However, if the pain persists for a longer period and becomes unbearable, then you must consult a neurosurgeon immediately to avoid further complications.

Here are some tell-tale signs that you need to see a neurosurgeon for neck and back pain:

1. Inability to move the neck freely without sharp pain

If you are experiencing tremendous pain in your neck and are not able to move it from one side to another, then it could be a matter of serious concern. It indicates that you need to consult a specialist. Neck pain caused by minor injuries heals over time. But, if they persist for more than a week at a stretch, it is alarming. Relying on home remedies could be comfortable for only a short period. So, try avoiding causing serious damage to your neck.

2. Weak muscles

Muscle weakness (called Asthenia) in the neck or lower back could be a tell-tale sign of severe pain. People suffering from Asthenia cannot move their necks, legs, or arms properly. They feel tired and often nauseated due to the unflinching pain they experience. If you are someone facing this, then it could be a matter of concern. It could also hinder the normal process of walking.

3. Post-accident complication

If you suffered an accident recently or got injured in the gym that caused pain in your neck, then you need to be careful. It can even damage your vertebrae. Getting a timely diagnosis by a specialist is recommended to avoid further complications or the need for surgery.

4. Not being able to identify the reason behind your headaches

If along with the severe neck pain, you are also experiencing regular headaches without any specific reason like migraine, stress, or other head injuries, then it is a sign of a chronic neck injury which can prove to be detrimental in the long run. The headache might be mild initially but later develop into a throbbing and irritating pain intruding on your daily life and hindering urgent activities.

5. Pain in the upper back and shoulders

It is often seen that the neck pain one experiences can also trickle down to the back, shoulders, and limbs. A gradual increase in such pain indicates damage to tendons, nerves, and ligaments, which need immediate doctor’s attention.

6. No improvement in pain after physical therapy

Physical therapy is the most sought-after treatment for neck pain. It helps in reducing inflammation and improving flexibility. But if it does not help improve the condition, then treatment, as recommended by an expert, might be needed.

7. Inability to sleep at night due to pain

Sleep is the time our body uses to repair and heal damaged parts. But the inability to sleep at night due to pain can be extremely problematic. It is recommended to consult a specialist to get relief from the pain and be able to sleep properly at night.

8. If your MRI reports reveal that surgery is necessary

After experiencing pain, it is usually suggested that you consult a general physician. The physician might suggest you undergo an MRI, which will help them understand the further complications and reasons behind your pain. If the physician indicates the need for surgery, then you must reach out to a neurosurgeon immediately for any neuro disorder such as parkinsonian syndrome, brain nerve disorder, neuro pain, etc. If you are considering surgery, then taking a second opinion from an expert is advised.

9. Symptoms point toward disc issues

If you experience pain and the inability to bend your lower back, it can be an issue of a herniated disc. Non-surgical measures often fail to treat such issues. Hence, it is recommended to consult a physician at first who can refer you to a neurosurgical expert by performing the requisite tests.

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10. You are aging

Various complicated health conditions like neck and back pain increase with age. Major issues include osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. It is recommended that if you are in your 40s (or older) and experiencing such pain, you must see a neurosurgeon as soon as possible.

Conclusion

If you have experienced or have already experienced any of the above mentioned signs, it is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon soon. You can find the best neurosurgeons in Mumbai at Nanavati Max Super Specialty hospital. Some of them are Dr. Rajan Shah, the director and head of neurosurgery at the hospital, Dr. Mihir Bapat, Dr. Praadyumna J. Oak, Dr. Siddharth Kharkar, and Dr. Neeta Shah.