Treat Neck Pain without Surgery

Cervical spine disorders account for thousands of visits to primary care physicians each year. Some require more serious solutions such as surgery, but others may easily be treated through exercise, and the use of physical therapy or other alternative therapy products.

Causes of Neck Pain
The cervical spine is complex. It is able to support a head that weighs 15 or more pounds and moves in several directions. However, a combination of this complexity and mobility make the neck susceptible to pain and injury.
The cervical spine is comprised of seven small vertebrae, inter-vertebral discs to absorb shock, joints, the spinal cord, eight nerve roots, vascular elements, and 32 muscles and ligaments.
According to Iain Kalfas, MD, Head, Section of Spinal Surgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, some of the top causes for neck pain include:

• Injury and accidents;
• Aging;
• Poor posture;
• Obesity;
• Stress; and
• Diseases such as spinal stenosis and osteoarthritis.

Dealing with a Pain in the Neck
Most neck pain is caused by stress and can be treated without surgery. It is important to meet with a doctor first to discuss your options, but once it is decided that non-surgical procedures are possible, there are an array of products available to assist in dealing with neck pain. Additionally, if surgery is needed, many alternative therapy products are also available to help heal during the rehabilitation process and to maintain overall neck wellness.
“I was in a severe accident several years ago and I had to have surgery performed to two cervical discs,” Tom Maroney, CEO of Banner Therapy Products, said. “The discs were fused together with screws and plates. After much rehabilitation and research about the topic, I was prompted to launch a web site (www.BannerTherapy.com) where I could provide people with therapeutic options for neck pain relief.”
Banner Therapy Products is a popular e-commerce site that offers physical therapy, spa therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic, alternative therapy products, supplies, and equipment.
Pain relief products for the neck include: pain relief pillows, hot and cold packs, topical analgesics, inversion tables, traction units, exercise balls and more.
For instance, the Omni Cervical Relief Pillow™ uses an ergonomically-contoured shape to comfortably cradle the head and neck in a position that encourages gentle traction and correct cervical curvature. This posture allows for total relaxation of the neck, shoulders, and back muscles.
“It will relax a tense neck, shoulders and back muscles while helping to restore natural cervical curvature,” Maroney explained.
The Omni Cervical relief Pillow™ may be used as a comfortable and effective tractioning device, for meditation, relaxation, and relief from tension headaches and neck pain. It also helps relieve pain associated with Fibromyalgia and temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ).
The cervical roll is also a viable option and travels well. It is filled with high-quality polyester foam and provides maximum comfort and proper neck support. A standard roll measures 18” x 7’ and is soft and flexible.
So, if you have neck pain, seek professional advice first and then research non-surgical procedures and alternative therapy products. Treatment times will vary from person to person and will depend on the nature of the injury or symptom.