Neck pain, known medically as cervicalgia, can range from a minor inconvenience to a debilitating condition. It can range from a few days to some years in duration, depending on its cause. The majority of the population is reported to develop cervical pain from everyday activities, such as working on a computer screen, sleeping in an awkward position, or being under stress. Some other severe conditions, such as osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, or herniated discs, can also lead to chronic cervical pain. Proper knowledge of the common causes and available treatments can help handle this condition.

Common Causes of Neck Pain

Physical Strain

Overusing the neck muscles in repetitive or heavy work may lead to stiffness and pain. Poor posture might be slumping and straining to look at a computer screen or while driving. Weak abdominal muscles and body weight, a little bit on the heavier side, might also disturb the alignment of the spine and thus lead to neck pain.

Mental Stress

Stress may cause tension in the muscles, most often the neck muscles. Many people unknowingly tighten their neck muscles when stressed, leading to pain and stiffness.

Ageing

As we age, the cervical spine undergoes natural wear and tear. Degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis (wearing down of joint cartilage) and spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine spaces) can cause neck pain. Repeated movements and stress over time can weaken spinal discs, leading to herniated discs or pinched nerves.

Injury

Trauma, such as whiplash from car accidents, can damage neck muscles, ligaments, discs, vertebral joints, and nerve roots. This damage can result in chronic neck pain.

Health Conditions

Conditions such as meningitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer can have neck pain as a symptom. Growths such as tumours, cysts, and bone spurs can also pressure neck nerves, causing pain.

Symptoms of Neck Pain

Neck pain can present itself in different ways, including-

Persistent ache
Stabbing or burning sensation
Shooting pain extending to shoulders or arms
Headaches
Stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
Difficulty turning the neck or tilting the head
Numbness or tingling in shoulders or arms

Diagnosing Neck Pain

A healthcare provider usually diagnoses neck pain through a medical history review and physical examination. Imaging tests may be required in some cases:

X-rays can reveal bone and soft tissue problems.
MRI can show spinal cord, nerves, bone marrow, and soft tissue issues.
CT scans may be used if MRI is unavailable, showing bone spurs and deterioration.
Electrodiagnostic tests assess nerve function and muscle response.
Lab tests can identify non-musculoskeletal causes such as infections or cancers.

Treatment Options for Neck Pain

Pain Medications and Muscle Relaxers - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can ease pain and inflammation. Muscle relaxants help heal neck muscles.

Physical Therapy - Working with a physical therapist or fitness trainer to strengthen neck muscles and improve flexibility can relieve pain.

TENS Unit - A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) unit applies a low-level electrical current to the skin, disrupting pain signals.

Steroid Injections - Injections near nerve roots can reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Alternative Therapies - Acupuncture, massage, osteopathy, and chiropractic care can help alleviate neck pain by loosening muscles and aligning the spine.

Surgery - Surgery is rarely required but may be necessary for severe cases involving vertebral misalignment or nerve pressure.

Preventing Neck Pain

Good Posture - Maintain proper posture when using electronic devices and while seated. Keep shoulders aligned and back straight to avoid straining the neck.
Proper Sleep Position - Use a pillow to support the head and keep the neck aligned with the body. Avoid sleeping on the stomach with the head turned.
Staying Active - Regular exercise, including neck stretches and movements, can prevent neck pain.
Avoiding Heavy Loads on Shoulders - Use luggage or bags with wheels instead of carrying heavy objects on the shoulder.
Strengthening Upper Back Muscles - Exercises such as scapular squeezes, standing push-ups, and theraband rowing can strengthen upper back extensor muscles, reducing strain on the neck.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if neck pain:

Develops after an accident
Involves loss of bowel or bladder control
Persists without relief
It is accompanied by headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fever, or unexplained weight loss.
Causes numbness or tingling in arms, shoulders, or legs
It leads to weakness in the legs or loss of coordination

Conclusion

Neck pain is a common issue that can significantly impact daily life. Understanding its causes and available treatments is essential for effective management and relief. Whether the pain arises from physical strain, poor posture, mental stress, ageing, or underlying health conditions, identifying the root cause is crucial. Various treatment options, ranging from pain medications and physical therapy to alternative therapies and, in rare cases, surgery, can help alleviate pain and improve quality of life.

Reference link-

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/neck-pain