What exercises to avoid with neck problems?

Question

Hi doctor,

I involved in a car accident seven years ago. I have been having problems with my neck ever since. I recently consulted an orthopedic specialist and had an MRI done last week. The results are as follow: Multilevel degenerative disc disease with straightening of lordosis. Multilevel bulging and spondylotic ridging with superimposed disc osteophyte complexes at C4-C5 and C5-C6, central herniation at C3-C4 and multilevel luschka hypertrophy with foraminal encroachment. Currently, I am taking Aspirin, Lisinopril and Hydrochlorothiazide, Omega 3 and also Synthroid 0.55 mcg. I want to know how to deal with these issues? What to expect for the future and which type of exercise to avoid in order to maintain a normal life? Please suggest. Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The joints of the neck are the discs and the facets. As one ages they wear out. This can be aggravated by accidents.

This process can cause pain in two ways.

Joint pain in the neck without neurological weakness or numbness.
Neurological problems from pressure on the nervous system.

Generally speaking, the neck pain caused by wearing out of the joints is not helped by surgery to relieve pressure on the nerves.

The best treatment for this joint pain is controversial. Implanting artificial discs or fusing the spine (joining bones together) do not significantly help most patients.

Active exercise and learning how to use one's body in everyday life seems to offer the best results for those without neurological problems.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

What you have is the aging process. Some people age faster.

Avoid heavy lifting. Regular stretching and range of motion exercises help most people. This could be shown to you by a physical therapist. Most people never need surgery in future.