Effective October 2024, we are IN NETWORK with Oscar Health Plans

Skip to main content
786-814-0808 Request Appt.

Neck And Back Pain

Minimally Invasive Spine Center of South Florida Our Services Neck and Back Pain

Minimally Invasive Spine Center of South Florida

Orthopedic Spine Surgeons located in Coral Gables, FL

Neck and back pain affect millions of Americans every year, leading to missed days at work while interfering with other aspects of daily life. These types of pain can develop for many different reasons, including herniated discs and strained muscles. Dr. Jonathan Gottlieb of the Minimally Invasive Spine Center of South Florida offers accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for patients struggling with back pain. To make an appointment for neck or back pain treatment, please contact his office in South Miami, Florida.

Neck and Back Pain Q & A

What causes back pain?

Back pain can have a variety of possible causes, including:

  • Sprains and strains

  • Arthritis

  • Abnormalities in the spine

  • Herniated or bulging discs

  • Osteoporosis

In some cases, you may experience back pain because of more than one issue.

What causes neck pain?

Your neck is made up of a complex network of bones, muscles, tendons, nerves, and other types of tissue. When any of this tissue is damaged or irritated, you may experience neck pain. Some of the most common causes of neck pain include:

  • Worn joints

  • Arthritis

  • Muscle sprains or strains

  • Whiplash

  • Herniated discs

Some patients may have neck pain because of more than one underlying issue. In rare cases, serious illnesses like cancer or meningitis can cause neck pain.

How is neck and back pain diagnosed?

Dr. Gottlieb starts with a review of your medical history, to find if there’s a likely cause for your pain. While sometimes you know the reason for your discomfort, other cases of neck and back pain may appear spontaneously, without an obvious injury or origin. A physical exam follows, noting tender spots and limitations to the normal range of motion. Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans may also aid diagnosis.

How is neck and back pain treated?

The good news is that most incidents of neck and back pain correct themselves, in periods ranging from days for soft tissue injuries, to weeks or months for more complex issues. Therefore, treatment typically addresses symptoms such as inflammation and mobility, as well as controlling pain, as the body recovers.

Medication can get pain under control and ease swelling at the site of the injury. In many cases, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can sufficiently manage the pain. Dr. Gottlieb can prescribe stronger medications if OTC drugs aren’t sufficient for you. Topical analgesics may also help in some cases, and cortisone injections have limited applications for pain relief as well.

Physical therapy may also speed recovery time, restoring joint mobility and releasing blockages in soft tissue. Stimulating blood flow to the site of the injury usually brings quicker healing.

Below are a few links to trusted physical therapists that Dr Gottlieb works closely with:

symmetry

Surgery is typically a last resort, and it’s only used when more conservative treatments fail. Minimally invasive surgical techniques are available and can reduce recovery time for many procedures.

For further information on your condition, please refer to this link:  www.aaos.org

What we offer

Services