OVERVIEW

What Is Neck Pain?

Neck pain causes

Neck pain can result from a muscle strain, arthritis, or a more serious trauma — such as an accident or blow to the head. You should consult a physician right away if you suffer head trauma.

Other causes of neck pain include twisting, jerking, or other awkward head movements.

Neck pain risk factors

A number of factors can put you at risk for neck pain.

Sports — such as soccer and football — involve rapid neck movements that can strain your neck and cause pain.

Other neck pain risk factors can include:

• Stress.
• Poor posture or sleeping position.
• Worn joints or arthritis in your neck.
• Compression of the nerves.

Neck pain complications

Left untreated, neck pain can cause you to adjust your movements and posture.

This may lead to:

• Upper body discomfort.
• Sore muscles.
• Limited enjoyment of your favorite sports and daily activities.

SYMPTOMS

Neck pain symptoms

Neck pain symptoms often involve pain that radiates to other parts of the body, such as the:

• Head
• Shoulders
• Arms and hands

People most often notice pain and stiffness in the neck when turning the head side to side.

Other symptoms of neck pain may include:

• Headaches
• Weakness
• Tingling in the hands 

Neck pain diagnosis

After discussing your medical history and performing a physical exam, your physician may order one or more of the following tests:

• X-rays to look at the bones.
• CT scans to get a closer look at the bone and spinal canal.
• MRI scans to look at soft tissues, such as the spinal cord and nerves.
• Electromyography (EMG) to check nerve and muscle function.

TREATMENT

Neck Pain Treatment 

Working with a physician to find the root cause of your neck pain is the first step.

Your physician will review your test results. If there's no serious injury to your neck or spinal cord, a treatment plan will be designed for your neck pain.

Neck pain treatments for athletes and nonathletes.

Neck pain treatments may include:

• Rest.
• Warm compresses
• Physiotherapy to improve your posture and movement.

Getting the right treatment for your sore neck will go far in helping you recover faster and avoid further injury.

 

 

 

 

Content supplemented by UPMC Sports Medicine