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What exercises to avoid with neck problems?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

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.

Answered by Dr. Tony Magana

Education:

Diploma in Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ignacio Antanio Magana is a highly experienced Neurosurgeon with almost 42 years of clinical practice. He completed his Diploma in Medicine from Harvard Medical School in 1981 and did his Residency in Neurosurgery at the University of Miami in 1988. He is an expert in spine health and spine surgery.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

You have mentioned active exercise? How to use my body? What kind of exercise should I look into? I really do not know what to look for. Does my condition have a specific name? And what is expected after the years with my condition?

Answered by Dr. Tony Magana

Education:

Diploma in Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ignacio Antanio Magana is a highly experienced Neurosurgeon with almost 42 years of clinical practice. He completed his Diploma in Medicine from Harvard Medical School in 1981 and did his Residency in Neurosurgery at the University of Miami in 1988. He is an expert in spine health and spine surgery.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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.
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At April 25, 2016
Reviewed At May 2, 2025

Education:

Diploma in Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ignacio Antanio Magana is a highly experienced Neurosurgeon with almost 42 years of clinical practice. He completed his Diploma in Medicine from Harvard Medical School in 1981 and did his Residency in Neurosurgery at the University of Miami in 1988. He is an expert in spine health and spine surgery.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

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Habit Routine Builder

Neck Problem Management Routine Builder

How it works

Understanding your neck condition is the first step towards effective management. This section explains common neck issues and how to approach them.

1

Disc
Degeneration

2

Accidents
Affect

3

Pain
Management

4

Safe
Movement

5

Nerve
Symptoms

6

Long-Term
Health

When to see a doctor

If you experience new or worsening neurological symptoms like severe weakness, numbness, or persistent tingling in your arms or hands, or if your pain becomes unmanageable, consult your doctor promptly.

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Education:

Diploma in Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ignacio Antanio Magana is a highly experienced Neurosurgeon with almost 42 years of clinical practice. He completed his Diploma in Medicine from Harvard Medical School in 1981 and did his Residency in Neurosurgery at the University of Miami in 1988. He is an expert in spine health and spine surgery.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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