Symptoms
- Neck pain that may radiate to shoulders or arms
- Numbness or tingling in hands or fingers
- Weakness in arms or hands
- Headaches, especially at the base of the skull
- Reduced range of motion in the neck
- Sharp pain with head movements
Common Causes
Cervical spine injuries can result from:
- Acute trauma: Motor vehicle accidents (whiplash), falls, sports injuries
- Gradual degeneration: Age-related disc wear, arthritis, bone spurs
- Herniated discs: Can be traumatic or degenerative
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of spinal canal compressing nerves
- Lifestyle factors: Poor posture, repetitive strain, heavy phone/computer use
How We Diagnose
Dr. Rastegar uses a comprehensive approach to diagnose cervical spine conditions:
- Physical examination: Range of motion, strength testing, reflexes, and sensory assessment
- MRI: Detailed images of discs, nerves, and spinal cord
- X-rays: Bone alignment and stability assessment
- CT scan: When detailed bone imaging is needed
- EMG/Nerve studies: To assess nerve function if compression is suspected
Red flags requiring immediate attention: Severe arm weakness, difficulty walking or balance problems, loss of bowel/bladder control, or progressive neurological symptoms.
Treatment Options
Good News for Most Patients
The majority of spine conditions improve with conservative (non-surgical) treatment. Surgery is typically considered only when non-surgical approaches haven't provided adequate relief after an appropriate trial period, or when there are progressive neurological symptoms.
Non-Surgical Treatment (First-Line Approach)
- Physical therapy and targeted exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Muscle relaxants for spasm relief
- Cervical epidural steroid injections
- Activity modification and ergonomic adjustments
- Cervical traction therapy
- Pain management techniques
Surgical Options
- Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF)
- Cervical disc replacement
- Posterior cervical decompression
- Minimally invasive cervical procedures
When Surgery Is Considered
- Persistent arm pain despite 6-12 weeks of conservative treatment
- Progressive neurological deficits (weakness, numbness)
- Spinal cord compression (myelopathy)
- Severe pain affecting quality of life
- Documented nerve compression on imaging correlating with symptoms
Recovery & What to Expect
Immediate Post-Treatment (Weeks 1-2)
Pain management, gentle range of motion exercises, gradual return to light activities
Early Recovery (Weeks 3-6)
Progressive physical therapy, increased activity tolerance, most patients return to desk work
Continued Healing (Months 2-3)
Advanced strengthening, improved neck stability, return to most normal activities
Full Recovery (Months 3-6)
Maximum medical improvement, return to full activity including sports for most patients
Frequently Asked Questions
For Referring Providers
Evaluation Approach
Comprehensive cervical spine assessment including detailed neurological examination, imaging review, and correlation with patient symptoms.
What to Send
Recent MRI (ideally within 6 months), X-rays, prior treatment records, and any EMG/nerve conduction studies if available.