Cervicalgia is a medical term used to refer to pain that occurs in the neck region that can be described as sharp, stabbing, dull, aching, throbbing, tingling, or persistent.
The neck is a complex area of the body composed of bones, nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons all working together to provide structure and protection, while still allowing it to move freely. Because of its flexibility and constant demand holding the head upright, the neck is susceptible to damage from sudden or repetitive movements. Pain caused by compressed nerves due to stiff muscles or damaged nerves from injury, can start in the cervical area and extend all the way down into the upper back, shoulders, shoulder blades, arms, or hands. This radiation of pain which has the ability to start in one place and affect other areas is called radiculopathy.
Neck pain is more commonly observed and reported by persons who have poor posture, are obese, smoke, perform repetitive lifting or desk work, are involved in athletic activity, and is estimated to affect approximately 30% of the US population each year.
If left untreated it can lead to a decrease of motor control such as muscle weakness, lack of coordination, or loss of reflexes in the arms or hands. It can also cause sensory issues, such as numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, fingers or skin and increased sensitivity to pain called hyperalgesia.
It’s important to have a physical therapist help address issues of Cervicalgia as soon as they become chronic to reduce or prevent the probability of nerve damage. During the initial visit with a physical therapist, patients can expect to receive a full medical history review as well as a physical evaluation to determine the etiology. The physical therapist may work alongside other healthcare providers such as a general practitioner or surgeon, to order special diagnostic testing such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI’s, or Electromyography (EMG). The physical therapist will use all the information documented and obtained from the tests to confirm an accurate diagnosis and create an individualized treatment plan.
Brooklyn Body Works Physical Therapy is staffed with a professional and caring team of experts with clinical experience in treating Cervicalgia. Browse through our physical therapist profiles to learn how they can help you with restoring functionality.
Cervicalgia can become a life altering condition leading to a multitude of symptoms. Physical therapy treatments often can help people avoid the need for surgery or medication. With the appropriate course of action created to fit each individuals needs, physical therapy has shown to: • reduce and relieve pain,
• improve posture, motion, flexibility, strength, and endurance,
• assist with stress management,
• provide insightful tips and tools on how to use proper body mechanics when lifting, pushing, and pulling, to minimize stress on the spine,
• and improve fitness and activity level.
Cervicalgia physical therapy can include techniques or exercises such as:
Brooklyn Body Works Physical Therapy began as an idea to bring the highest quality physical therapy to all people in our community. We wanted to offer the best that NYC has in health care while not marginalizing people based on socioeconomic boundaries (race, income, language, religion, etc). We offer a “concierge style service” and continue to accept many commercial insurances, medicare and even medicaid policies.
Since this is a physical therapy session which will require a physical examination and therapeutic exercise (varies by patient), we ask all our patients to come prepared. Please come dressed in loose fitted clothing that will allow for easy mobility, comfort, and access to the area of complaint. In addition we recommend sneakers with soles that grip to prevent slips or falls.
The need for a referral depends on what type of insurance you have. Most insurance plans do not require one, however some insurances do. For example, if you have HIP, you will need a referral from your primary care physician. We ask that you check to see what your health insurance plan requires prior to your initial visit. If you are unsure, please contact our front office and we’ll do our best to determine whether or not you require a referral.
To get in contact with us, click on the following link to view information pertaining to each office.
Each patients case and diagnosis is unique and requires the development of an individualized plan of care. Your physical therapist will give you an estimate of the number of sessions needed to reach a level of “feeling better”, during your initial evaluation.
Over time the number of visits may increase or decrease from the initial estimate, based on the progress made.
Brooklyn Body Works Physical Therapy accepts many of the available major insurance plans as well as alternate payment options, including cash/self-pay, to make our services accessible and affordable. Please visit the link below to view all information pertaining to Payment Options.
