Neck Pain

We’re here to help patients regain mobility and reduce discomfort.

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Dr Whaley stands in front of a dark background smiling. She is wearing pink v neck scrubs with her name embroidered in white.

Overview

Neck pain is a common condition that can limit mobility and interfere with daily activities, often caused by poor posture, muscle strain, injuries, or underlying conditions like arthritis or nerve compression. Symptoms may include stiffness, sharp or radiating pain, headaches, or difficulty turning the head.

At Whaley Health and Pain Management, Dr. Whaley and our team help patients recognize the signs of neck pain and provide targeted treatment options to relieve discomfort and restore mobility. Using advanced therapies such as nerve blocks, joint injections, and comprehensive wellness strategies, we address the root cause of pain and develop personalized care plans.

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Common Causes of Neck Pain

Understanding the common causes of neck pain is the first step toward finding effective relief. Dr. Whaley and her team are here to help patients find answers and provide targeted treatments.

Herniated or Bulging Discs

A bulging disc occurs when the soft, inner disc protrudes outward. Herniated discs occur when the inner disc has ruptured and leaks outward. Both can cause pain, numbness, and nerve irritation.

Muscle Strains & Injuries

When we overstretch or overuse our muscles, it can lead to strains, tears, or other injuries that lead to pain, tenderness, and sometimes swelling.

Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy happens when a nerve in the neck is pinched or irritated. This can lead to pain, tingling, or weakness that radiates down the arm, causing discomfort and limiting movement.

Chronic Post-Surgery Syndrome

Chronic Post-Surgery Syndrome occurs when pain persists long after a surgery, often affecting the neck. This ongoing discomfort can arise from nerve damage or scar tissue, leading to lasting neck pain.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

CRPS in the neck, also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy or Causalgia, is a chronic pain condition characterized by intense, burning pain, and other symptoms like swelling and skin changes, often triggered by an injury or surgery.

Arthritis & Degenerative Disc Disease

Arthritis is a breakdown of cartilage in the joints connecting the vertebrae of your spine while degenerative disc disease occurs when the soft inner disc deteriorates.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis occurs when there is not enough space in the area around the spinal cord, causing pressure and irritating the nerves.

Cervical Dystonia

Cervical dystonia is a condition where the neck muscles contract uncontrollably, causing abnormal twisting or movements. This can lead to significant neck pain and discomfort in daily activities.

Compression Fractures

When a bone in the spine weakens and collapses, compression fractures occur. This can lead to neck pain as it puts pressure on surrounding nerves and tissues, causing discomfort and restricted movement.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread pain and fatigue. It can lead to neck pain by making muscles tense and sensitive, causing discomfort and stiffness in the neck area.

Recognizing the Signs of Chronic Neck Pain

Our team can help you spot the symptoms of neck pain and understand how it feels, how intense it is, and where it occurs.

Pain Type

Can be a dull ache, sharp pain, muscle weakness, difficulty turning or tilting the head, numbness, tingling, or even as a headache.

Severity

Neck pain can reduce your mobility, making it hard for you to perform daily activities without discomfort.

Location

Can be at the base of the skull, back of the neck, along the shoulders, or even radiate to the arms.

How We Treat Neck Pain

At Whaley Health & Pain Management, we take the time to understand what our patients are experiencing so we can address more than just the symptoms—we aim to treat the underlying cause and support your overall health and wellness. Through targeted therapies, we help restore mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve your quality of life.

Epidural Steroid Injections

This involves steroid medication injected directly into the epidural space around the spine to provide relief.

Nerve Blocks & Ablations

These targeted pain relief techniques address the nerves to manage chronic nerve pain and improve mobility.

Lidocaine IV Therapy

This treatment delivers lidocaine directly into a vein. It helps reduce neck pain by calming nerve signals, providing quick relief and improving comfort.

Pain Pump & Stimulator Trials

These advanced pain management options offer long-term relief from severe chronic pain conditions, providing pain medication directly into the spinal fluid with a catheter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I get a neck brace?
A neck brace can provide temporary support and relief for certain neck injuries, such as whiplash or cervical spine instability. However, prolonged use can weaken neck muscles over time. We recommend consulting Dr. Whaley before using a brace to ensure it’s appropriate for your condition and to receive guidance on proper usage.
What’s the best sleeping position for neck pain?
The best sleeping position for neck pain is on your back or side with a supportive pillow that keeps your neck aligned with your spine. A cervical pillow or a rolled-up towel placed under your neck can provide extra support. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as it forces your neck into an awkward position that can worsen pain.
What are the symptoms of nerve damage in your neck?
Symptoms of nerve damage in the neck may include sharp, burning pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the shoulders, arms, or hands. Some people may also experience muscle spasms or a reduced range of motion. If you have persistent symptoms, a medical evaluation can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
How do I know if my neck pain is muscle, nerve, or something more serious?
Muscle pain is often dull, achy, and worsens with movement, while nerve pain can feel like sharp, shooting pain, tingling, or numbness. More serious conditions may involve persistent pain, weakness, loss of coordination, or symptoms like fever or unexplained weight loss. If your neck pain is severe, lasts more than a few weeks, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s best to talk to your primary care physician or Dr. Whaley for a proper diagnosis.
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A fair-skinned woman with long blonde hair, wearing pink medical scrubs over a white and red polka-dotted long-sleeved shirt, is handing a clipboard with papers to a fair-skinned man. The man, wearing a red and white patterned short-sleeved shirt and a watch, appears to be receiving the documents at a counter, possibly in a clinic or office setting.

Success Stories from Our Patients

Hear from others in the Delta area who have trusted Whaley Health and Pain Management with their treatment. You can count on our team to listen, care, and prioritize your health and well-being.

“Dr. Whaley really takes the time to listen and never makes me feel like my pain is less than it feels. I really appreciate her for that.”

Karen G.

"I went to see her and she takes the time to listen, which most doctors don't. If you're looking for a local pain management doctor, I highly recommend calling and setting up an appointment. All the staff are so friendly too.

Cathy T.

“10/10! I was able to get in fast, explain what was going on, and get the help I needed! Their office is beautiful, check-in was super easy, and they provided exceptional service. If you are having any kind of pain issues, I highly recommend giving them a call!!”

Kayla Z.

Start Your Pain-Free Journey Today

Dr. Heather Whaley takes a thoughtful approach to pain management, recognizing that effective relief requires more than just treating symptoms.

Speak with Our Team

If you’re dealing with chronic or acute pain, ask your doctor about a referral to see how we can help.

Locate Us in Stuttgart

413 E. Michigan
Stuttgart, AR 72160