Neck Pain Causes
Neck pain is discomfort in any of the structures in the neck. These include the muscles, nerves, bones (vertebrae), and the disks between the bones. The neck (cervical spine) is composed of vertebrae that begin in the upper torso and end at the base of the skull. The bony vertebrae along with the ligaments and muscles provide stability to the spine. These muscles allow for support and motion.
The neck supports the weight of the head and is responsible for a significant amount of motion. Because the neck is less protected than the rest of the spine, the neck can be vulnerable to injuries that produce pain and can drastically limit motion.
- Whiplash - An injury to the soft tissues of the neck from a sudden jerking or "whipping" of the head. This type of motion strains the muscles and ligaments of the neck beyond their normal range of motion.
- Arthritis - Cervical Spondylitis is Arthritis of the Neck. Like the rest of the body, the bones in the neck (cervical spine) slowly degenerate as we age. More than 85% of people over age 60 are affected. Although it is a form of arthritis, cervical spondylitis rarely becomes a crippling or disabling type.
- Muscle strains - Overuse such as too many hours hunched over a desk/computer, often triggers muscle strains. Sleeping in a position that strains the neck, such as with a pillow that is too high or too firm. Even such minor things as reading in bed or gritting your teeth can strain neck muscles.
- Nerve compression - Herniated disks or bone spurs in the vertebrae of your neck can take up too much space and press on the nerves branching out from the spinal cord.
- Diseases - Neck pain can sometimes be caused by diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, meningitis or cancer.
- For minor, common causes of neck pain:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
- Apply heat or ice to the painful area.
- One good method is to use ice for the first 48 - 72 hours, then use heat after that. Heat may be applied with hot showers, hot compresses, or a heating pad.
- Stop normal physical activity for the first few days to reduce inflammation.
- Gently stretch the neck muscles. (up and down, side to side, and from ear to ear)
- Gently massage the sore areas.
- Sleep on a firm mattress without a pillow or with a special neck pillow.
- Use a soft neck collar to relieve discomfort.
When Should You Seek Medical Care?
If severe neck pain occurs following an injury (motor vehicle accident, diving accident, or fall), medical care should be sought immediately.
If there has not been an injury, you should seek medical care when neck pain is:
- Accompanied by pain that radiates down the arms or legs
- Accompanied by headaches, numbness, tingling, or weakness
Many patients seek orthopedic care for neck pain. The Become Pain Free orthopedists are specifically trained to diagnose, treat, and help prevent problems involving the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons our Become Pain Free specialist treat a wide variety of diseases, injuries, and other conditions, including neck pain. Call us today at (214) 396-3647 to find the treatment that is right for you.to find the treatment that is right for you.
The most common types of neck pain usually respond well to home care. If neck pain persists, your doctor may recommend other treatments.
- Physical Therapy
- Surgical Procedures
- Steroid injections