Neck pain is one of the most common complaints we see at Neuroscience and Spine Center of the Carolinas. And it’s no surprise. Between daily activities like working at computers, driving, and simply dealing with the stresses of modern life, your neck endures a lot of strain.

When neck pain becomes persistent or severe, it can affect every part of your life. From your ability to work and exercise to your overall mood and quality of sleep.

Dr. William Hunter, MD, a Board-Certified Neurosurgeon with extensive expertise in complex spine care, leads our team in providing expert diagnosis and both non-surgical and surgical treatments to help you find lasting relief.

Common Symptoms of Cervical (Neck) Pain

Neck pain can present in different ways depending on the cause. Symptoms may include:

• Persistent or sharp pain in the neck
• Stiffness and decreased range of motion
• Pain radiating to the shoulders, arms, or hands
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or fingers
• Headaches, often originating at the base of the skull
• Muscle weakness in the arms or hands
• Difficulty maintaining balance or coordination in severe cases

Early evaluation is important, especially if symptoms interfere with daily activities, worsen over time, or are associated with neurological changes like numbness or weakness.

Common Causes of Neck Pain

There are many potential reasons for cervical spine pain, including:

• Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear can cause discs between the vertebrae to break down, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Herniated or Bulging Disc: When a spinal disc presses on a nearby nerve, it can cause radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms.
• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, often due to arthritis or bone spurs, which puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
• Cervical Radiculopathy ("Pinched Nerve"): Nerve compression resulting in pain, numbness, or weakness radiating from the neck into the arms.
• Trauma or Injury: Whiplash from car accidents, sports injuries, or falls can cause acute or chronic neck issues.
• Postural Strain: Long periods of poor posture, particularly from desk work, can lead to muscular strain and chronic discomfort.

Advanced Non-Surgical Treatment Options

In many cases, neck pain can be successfully treated without surgery. Our personalized, evidence-based approach may include:

• Physical Therapy: To strengthen the muscles supporting the neck and improve posture.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or pain relievers.
• Epidural Steroid Injections: Targeted injections to reduce inflammation around irritated nerves.
• Trigger Point Injections: For muscular pain relief.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Ergonomic assessments and exercise programs to prevent future flare-ups.

Dr. Hunter and our team work closely with each patient to develop a customized treatment plan focused on restoring function and relieving pain.

When Surgery Becomes Necessary

If conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms, particularly if there is significant nerve compression or spinal instability, surgical intervention may be recommended.

Some of the advanced surgical options performed by Dr. Hunter include:

• Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): A procedure where a damaged disc is removed, and the vertebrae are fused together to stabilize the spine.
• Cervical Disc Replacement: An alternative to fusion, preserving motion by replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one.
• Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion: Performed from the back of the neck for extensive nerve or spinal cord compression.
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: Smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and faster recovery whenever possible.

Dr. Hunter brings over a decade of surgical expertise, combined with a focus on minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.

Why Choose Neuroscience and Spine Center of the Carolinas?

At Neuroscience and Spine Center of the Carolinas, we are committed to delivering comprehensive, compassionate, and cutting-edge care. Led by Dr. William Hunter, MD, we combine advanced diagnostics, evidence-based treatments, and patient-centered care to help you move better, feel better, and get back to the activities you love. Neck pain doesn’t have to control your life! Let us help you find the solution that's right for you. Contact us at our Gastonia, NC office to learn more.

When people hear the word "neurosurgeon," they often think of complex brain surgeries or emergency trauma procedures. While these high-stakes treatments are a vital part of neurosurgery, the reality is that neurosurgeons are also experts in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and nervous system — many of which are far more common than you might expect.

At the Neuroscience and Spine Center of the Carolinas, Dr. William Hunter, MD, a board-certified neurosurgeon with over a 30 years of experience, is dedicated to improving the lives of patients with neurological and spine-related concerns. His advanced expertise, combined with compassionate care, ensures that patients receive the most effective and minimally invasive treatment options available.

Knowing when to seek a neurosurgeon’s care can make a significant difference in managing your symptoms, improving your mobility, and enhancing your overall well-being. Here are some of the most common reasons you may need to see a neurosurgeon:

1. Chronic Back or Neck Pain

Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons people seek medical care, yet many individuals struggle for years without lasting relief. When pain becomes persistent or starts to limit your mobility, it may indicate a deeper issue requiring specialized care.

Common spine-related conditions that may require a neurosurgeon’s evaluation include:

• Herniated or Bulging Discs: When spinal discs become compressed or rupture, they can irritate nearby nerves, causing sharp pain, numbness, or weakness.
• Spinal Stenosis: Spinal Stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. Symptoms often include pain, tingling, or weakness that worsens with walking or standing.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related changes to the spine can cause discs to lose flexibility and cushioning, resulting in pain and stiffness.
• Sciatica or Pinched Nerves: Compression of the sciatic nerve can cause severe pain that radiates down the back of the leg.

If conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections fail to provide relief, Dr. Hunter can assess your condition and determine if minimally invasive surgery or advanced treatments are appropriate.

2. Sciatica and Nerve Pain

Sciatica is a distinct type of nerve pain that often originates in the lower spine and travels down one leg. It can cause:

• Sharp, shooting pain
• Tingling or numbness in the legs or feet
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods

While mild cases may respond to rest and physical therapy, persistent or worsening sciatica may indicate a herniated disc, bone spur, or nerve compression that requires surgical intervention.

Dr. Hunter specializes in identifying the root cause of nerve pain and developing customized treatment plans that may include minimally invasive decompression procedures or other innovative techniques.

3. Brain and Spinal Tumors

Although the word "tumor" can be alarming, not all tumors are cancerous. However, both benign and malignant tumors in the brain or spine can impact essential functions such as balance, coordination, and cognition.

Common symptoms that may suggest a tumor include:

• Persistent headaches (especially in the morning)
• Seizures or sudden neurological changes
• Vision disturbances
• Difficulty speaking or understanding language
• Weakness, numbness, or loss of coordination

Dr. Hunter is highly experienced in performing delicate procedures that remove tumors while preserving healthy tissue and minimizing post-operative complications. Early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes, making prompt evaluation essential.

4. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve,the primary nerve in the wrist, becomes compressed, resulting in:

• Numbness or tingling in the fingers
• Weakness or difficulty gripping objects
• Pain that radiates from the wrist to the arm

Mild cases can often be managed with splinting, medication, or lifestyle adjustments. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, Dr. Hunter may recommend carpal tunnel release surgery, a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve pressure on the nerve and restore normal hand function.

5. Traumatic Brain or Spinal Cord Injuries

Accidents, falls, or sports-related injuries can cause severe trauma to the brain or spine. Common injuries that require neurosurgical intervention include:

• Skull fractures
• Brain hemorrhages or bleeding
• Spinal fractures or instability
• Nerve damage leading to paralysis

In these urgent cases, Dr. Hunter provides specialized care to stabilize injuries, minimize damage, and promote optimal recovery.

Want to Talk To An Expert?

Contact the team at the NSSC Spine Clinic in Gastonia, NC. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions.

 We invite you to join us for this informative session hosted by Dr. William Hunter, a renowned specialist in orthopedic spinal surgeries.

Spine Fusion and Joint Care with Bone Marrow & Platelet Rich Plasma Webinar

October 29th - 5:30-6:30PM (CST)

Learn More / Register Now

During the webinar, Dr. Hunter will share his insights, practical tips, and strategies for how Bone Marrow & Platelet Rich Plasma can be utilized in Spine Fusion and Join Care procedures. This is an excellent opportunity for you to learn more about minimally invasive procedures, bone marrow & PRP utilization, and the latest advancements in spinal & joint treatments.