What are treatment options for Cervicogenic Angina?

What are treatment options for cervicogenic angina is a common question we get as neck health experts.

Cervicogenic angina refers to chest pain and discomfort mimicking angina pectoris.  It is caused by cervical spine pathology, particularly cervical spondylosis and radiculopathy.

Treatment for cervicogenic angina focuses on addressing the underlying cervical spine issues and relieving the associated chest pain.

Nonsurgical treatments include neck braces, physiotherapy or manual therapy for muscle strengthening, cervical traction and stretching for stabilization. Additionally, pharmacological treatments, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants, can be prescribed.

We will outline common treatment options.

Treatment options for cervicogenic angina

1. Physical Therapy:
   • A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to improve neck posture, range of motion, and strength. This can help reduce pain and prevent future episodes.
2. Manual Therapy:
   • Hands-on techniques like joint mobilization and myofascial manipulation can help improve cervical spine mobility and alleviate pain.
3. Posture Correction:
   • Proper ergonomics and posture correction techniques can reduce strain on the neck and upper back, minimizing the likelihood of referred chest pain.
4. Medication:
   • Prescribe non-prescription pain relievers (e.g., NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants to manage pain and muscle tension.
5. Cervical Epidural Injections:
   • In some cases, corticosteroid injections into the cervical spine can provide relief by reducing inflammation and pain.
6. Nerve Blocks:
   • Injection of a local anesthetic around the affected nerves can help block pain signals.
7. Activity Modification:
   • Avoiding or modifying activities that worsen symptoms can be beneficial.
8. Stress Management:
   • Stress reduction techniques, such as relaxation exercises or counseling, can help if stress contributes to muscle tension.
9. Surgery (Rarely):
   • In severe cases with structural issues like herniated discs, surgery may be considered to address the cervical spine problem.

It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the most suitable treatment plan tailored to you. Treatment success often involves a combination of therapies and lifestyle modifications to manage cervicogenic angina effectively.

If you experience chest pain or discomfort, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation to rule out any cardiac-related issues.  After ruling out cardiac causes, our team provides a thorough neck health examination.

Patients presenting with cervicogenic angina and dyspnea should consider conservative management first, such as specialized physical therapy. We provide a comprehensive treatment approach through our Cervicogenic Angina Relief Program.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today so we can help you!