Neck pain is a symptom of discomfort, pain or tightness in the neck area. This pain usually occurs in the neck muscles, joints, nerves or other neck structures. Neck pain can negatively affect quality of life and limit daily activities. The types and severity can vary from person to person.
Treatment can vary depending on the cause of the pain and may include different modalities such as physical therapy, medications, exercises or surgery. If neck pain persists for a long time or is associated with a serious condition, it should be evaluated by a health professional.
Types and Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain can occur in different types and causes. Common types and causes of neck pain:
Tension Neck Pain: This type of neck pain is usually caused by tension or spasm of the muscles. Holding a fixed neck position for a long time, incorrect posture, stress or excessive physical activity can be the causes of this pain. It usually causes mild or moderate pain.
Cervical Spondylosis: This is a type of neck pain caused by degeneration and calcification of the cervical vertebrae. Factors such as aging, holding a fixed neck position for a long time, and slipping cervical vertebrae can trigger spondylosis. This can cause neck pain and limitation of neck movements.
Neck Disc Problems: A disc herniation or cervical hernia occurs when the discs between the cervical vertebrae leak outward. This can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots and lead to neck pain, numbness and muscle weakness.
Neck Muscle Spasms: This is pain caused by sudden contraction or spasm of the neck muscles. This type of pain is often associated with sudden movements, injuries or stress.
Neck Trauma: Traumatic neck pain is caused by blows to the neck area during accidents, falls or sports activities. This type of pain can lead to serious injuries.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Inflammatory joint diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the neck joints and cause neck pain.
Infections: Infections or inflammatory conditions in the neck area can lead to pain.
Neck Masses: In rare cases, tumors or masses in the neck area can cause neck pain.
What are the symptoms of neck pain?
Symptoms of neck pain can differ from person to person and can vary depending on the underlying cause of the neck pain. In general, neck pain symptoms can be as follows:
Pain: Neck pain can be in the form of discomfort, aching, stinging or sharp pain in the neck area. The intensity of the pain can range from mild to severe.
Neck stiffness: Neck pain can restrict neck movements. This condition is called "stiff neck" and is characterized by a feeling of difficulty turning the head left or right or tilting it up and down.
Headache: Neck pain can sometimes cause a headache in the back of the head or any part of the head.
Numbness or Tingling: Neck pain can spread to the shoulders and arms. This can be caused by compression of the neck nerves. Pain, numbness or tingling sensation may occur in the arm and hand.
Muscle Tension and Spasms: Neck pain is often associated with tension or spasms of the neck muscles.
Voice Changes: In some cases, problems in the neck area can lead to voice changes or hoarseness.
Dizziness: Neck pain can sometimes cause dizziness or loss of balance.
Weakness: If neck pain presses on the spinal cord or nerve roots, muscle weakness can develop.
Chest Pain: Neck pain can sometimes radiate to the chest area and this can be mistaken for heart conditions.
Swallowing Problems: Discomfort or swelling in the neck area can lead to difficulty swallowing or a feeling of discomfort in the throat.
Diagnosis of Neck Pain
To diagnose neck pain, a health professional first learns the patient's medical history and performs a physical examination. During the physical examination, the cervical vertebrae, muscles and soft tissues are examined to observe the limitation of neck movements. Neurological examination may include assessment of muscle weakness, numbness and reflexes.
Imaging tests can be used to determine the cause of neck pain in more detail. These tests include X-rays, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Laboratory tests can be done to check for signs of inflammation or infection. Once a diagnosis is made, the appropriate treatment plan is determined and treatment may vary depending on the cause of the neck pain.
If the neck pain indicates a serious problem or does not respond to treatment, the doctor may refer for further examination or to a different specialist.
How is neck pain treated?
Neck pain treatment may vary depending on the cause, severity and duration of the pain. Commonly used treatment options to treat neck pain:
Rest and Activity Modification: When you experience neck pain, it may be helpful to limit or modify your activities to allow your neck muscles to rest. Ergonomic adjustments and regular breaks can also help, especially if you work in occupations where you have poor posture or need to hold a fixed neck position for long periods of time.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy guided by a physical therapist can be effective in treating neck pain. This may include exercises to reduce muscle tension, increase flexibility and strengthen the neck muscles.
Medication: Painkillers (analgesics) or anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to control pain and inflammation. These medications are prescribed by a doctor and should not be used without expert advice.
Hot and Cold Treatment: Hot and cold compresses can be used to relieve neck pain. Hot compresses can help relax the muscles, while cold compresses can reduce inflammation.
Neck Exercises: Performing certain neck exercises can be beneficial to prevent and treat neck pain. These exercises are designed to strengthen the neck muscles and increase flexibility.
Injection Treatments: Epidural steroid injections or local anesthetic injections can be used to relieve pain. These treatments act directly on the nerve roots or inflamed areas.
Surgical Intervention: If the underlying cause of neck pain is a serious spinal problem, disc herniation or neck tumor, surgery may be necessary. However, surgery is usually considered when other treatment options have failed.