Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo
Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo

Did you know that 37% of people over the age of 50 experience neck pain, and 59 million adults in America are affected each year? At The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care, Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo (known by patients as Dr. Bo) specializes in treating back, spine, and neck issues. Neck pain is a frequent problem for many, often caused by sitting for extended periods, poor posture, or underlying health conditions. Depending on the severity, it can impact the overall quality of life.

The neck can also be referred to as the cervical spine. It is made up of bones, muscles, nerves, and joints, supporting the head and enabling movement. Its flexibility, however, makes it prone to injury and strain. Common causes of neck pain stem from nerve compression, muscle tension from overuse or poor posture, and injuries.

There are certain things that adults can do to help relieve neck pain and prevent future issues. At the Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care, Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo recommends simple exercises that can be easily incorporated into a patient's everyday routine.

For low-grade or moderate neck pain, Dr. Bo recommends simple exercises that can be done daily from the comfort of your own home, taking only minutes of your time. Remember, consistency is key to reducing pain overall and avoiding future and reoccurring issues.

First, Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo tells patients to start off with simple neck stretches and shoulder rolls, which can help ease tension. To stretch your neck, bring your ear towards your shoulder and hold for 15–20 seconds, then repeat for each side. Rotate your head left and right a few times, holding each position for 10–15 seconds. Once done with this exercise, Dr. Bo also recommends shoulder rolls, which can be done by moving your shoulders in a circular motion, five times forward and five times backward. Finish with a neck tilt by gently leaning your head forward to touch your chest, and hold for 15–20 seconds, which will give the back of your neck a nice stretch.

Next, Dr. Okubadejo recommends an exercise that doesn't involve movement but will help to strengthen your neck muscles. Press your palm against your forehead and push your head against your hand, holding for 5–10 seconds without allowing your hand to move forward. Repeat the same with your hand on the back and sides of your head. These isometric exercises help build neck strength without straining the muscles.

Again, these exercises are meant to relieve minor neck discomfort. At The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care, Dr. Bo specializes in treating conditions and injuries such as osteoarthritis, disc disorders, and whiplash. An accurate diagnosis is key to effective neck pain treatment. Dr. Okubadejo and his team use advanced diagnostic services such as X-rays, MRI scans, and CT scans to determine precisely the extent and location of your condition.

His approach often begins with conservative measures but then may advance to other treatments, such as minimally invasive surgery or regular surgery for more chronic cases. If you have severe pain, weakness, or numbness in your arms or legs, or if your neck pain is due to an injury, it is crucial to consult a professional. The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care provides thorough evaluations and treatments personalized to your needs. Post-treatment, their comprehensive approach includes custom rehabilitation programs and care to promote healing, restore functionality, and reduce discomfort. The team provides ongoing guidance and support to ensure the best possible outcomes throughout your recovery.

The Institute for Comprehensive Spine Care focuses on finding the right treatment for every individual to address the root cause of pain. Led by Dr. Gbolahan Okubadejo, a top spine surgeon, the team is dedicated to guiding you toward a pain-free life. Don't live with pain—contact them today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey to lasting comfort and wellness.