Nonsurgical Treatment for Neck Pain

Physical therapy helps relieve neck pain and prevent further damage to the spine. NYU Langone’s rehabilitation specialists, called physiatrists, and physical therapists at Rusk Rehabilitation specialize in working with people who have neck and back pain. They can create an individualized treatment plan based on your daily activities, the location of your pain, and your lifestyle goals.

Physical therapists provide a series of exercises to strengthen the muscles in the neck and back and improve posture, all of which can take pressure off a nerve and relieve pain. They also recommend techniques designed to improve spine function and relieve symptoms while you build strength. Other therapies, including stretching, heat and ice, and acupuncture, can also help relieve pain.

Being overweight can cause spine-related problems or worsen them. Excess weight puts additional stress on the spine and may pull the spine’s vertebrae, joints, and discs out of alignment. If you’re overweight and have a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease, you may experience more serious nerve damage and increased pain.

Our doctors understand that losing weight is not easy. NYU Langone’s Weight Management Program offers a variety of services to help you lose weight and improve your health.