First, you need to identify the cause of the neck pain. There are many possible reasons for neck pain, some not so serious, and some life-threatening. You should seek help from a health care professional who will take a detailed history and perform a thorough examination before treating. A chiropractor is a good place to start, but make sure they rule out any serious conditions.

Have an exam and X-ray done to find out.

You want to start with regular range of motion/stretching neck exercises, frequent heat or alternating heat/Ice therapy, massage therapy, and anti-inflammatry drugs(ibuprofen or naproxen) as needed for pain

That is based on the cause of the neck pain. Doctors of Chiropractic (DC) are licensed doctors who does diagnosis and either preforms and/or recommends treatment. That includes all areas of the neuromuscular system. The question is what is causing the problem with the area and that requires diagnosis. Diagnosis can't be done without an examination. If the cause is appropriate and responsive to conservative care then Chiropractic care with it's many therapeutic treatments is important and appropriate. Even if the problem has a permanent and/or structural component the treatments may still help, but may not totally eliminate the underlying cause. Don't wait to have the examination, as the sooner the problems is detected and treated the better.

Chiropractic is a great option for neck pain. It is one of the most effective and safest therapies for any spinal complaint.

Before you can discover the correct treatment for your neck pain, it is important to know the cause of the pain. It can be any number of diagnoses, including a strain, spondylosis, pinched nerve, muscle spasm, or even infection. You will need to be evaluated by your doctor to find answers. Often, physical therapy is a starting point for common causes of neck pain.

The answer to that question depends on a variety of factors, not the least of which is what is causing your neck pain. So a precise diagnosis, with a review of your general health, past medical history, past trauma, past and current medications, and a thorough examination would be necessary. Any primary care physician—including chiropractic physicians—can do all those things.

If it is muscle strain (and there are many possibilities there), osteoarthritis, whiplash, ligament tear (i.e., sprain; again, many possibilities), facet cartilage contusion or degradation, herniated disc or other space-occupying lesion, a chiropractic physician can diagnose and treat any of those conditions, as well as order advanced imaging of the cervical spine (neck).

Of course the best treatment will depend on the cause. If the pain is excruciating I would see an interventional pain physician to diagnose it and the treat the cause.

Physical therapy.

Hello,

I would start with a chiropractic evaluation to determine the causation of your problem. A chiropractic manipulation, passive therapies, and active therapies may help. Ultimately, X-rays and a potential MRI may be further diagnostic tools to better assess your condition.

Sincerely,

Dr. Duchon