Horrible Neck Pain

[AM1995]

I have had a chronic neck problem for years.  It affects my neck and upper back - feels like the muscles are too weak to do their job - and when it's really flared up it will give me a migraine.  I had asked my doctor for a referal to see a rheumatologist to make sure there's nothing 'major' going on in there, but he instead refered me to physical therapy.  I had 3 visits and was given some exercises to try at home.  To be honest, I have not been regular with doing the exercises, therefore I am still in pain.  I have an appointment with my primary dr tomorrow and I'm not sure if I should ask again for the referal to rheumatology... any suggestions??  I don't want to pay more money just for someone else to give me exercises to do, but I also don't want to do nothing or the wrong thing if there's like a herniated disc or something in there.  But, if a rheumatologist could be more helpful with the pain, then that would be a good thing.  Maybe I have the completely wrong idea of what a rheumatologist does -- so if you have experience with something similar I would appreciate your input.
Thanks

[squirtatious]

I only use chiropractors who practice The Pettibon System which is a full spine reguvenation program. We carry a lot of our emotions in our backs and necks...how is ur life, high levels of stress and emotion?

[AM1995]

I have been seeing a chiropractor for a little over a year - the relief I get from the adjustment doesn't last long, only a few days.  I've also tried massage, but can only do that when I can afford it.  I do think that massage would be VERY helpful if I could get one at least once a month.  I carry most, if not all, of my stress in my neck and shoulders so I'm always full of knots....  Thank you all for your input!!   I've thought maybe an MRI would be helpful, but my doctor suggested trying the exercises I got from the P.T. more consistently... he wants me to follow up in 6-8 weeks, so I guess I can ask then if he can order an MRI.

[IamInAgony]

I had the same problem.
Get an MRI
Xrays don't show anything but fractures
If your doctor wont order a MRI then get a second opinion.

Same thing happened to me, turns out mri showed a compressed vertebra, pinched nerve and spinal cord being restricted. I am waiting to see neurosurgeon.

[squirtatious]

Have u thought about seeking alternative healing through a chiropractor?

[achilles2]

I sent you a message.

[Lili_Inu]

Go get an x-ray of the neck and see an orthopedic. If the x-ray show no cervical spine problems, then you just need to get heat and massage therapy to relax muscles.