With near a decades worth of experience we at All Out Physiotherapy are specialists in treating neck pain.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe neck pain, especially if it is accompanied by neurological symptoms or if the cause is unknown. A proper diagnosis can help determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment options.
Symptoms and Causes of Neck Pain
Symptoms
Causes
Symptoms
Neck pain can have various causes, and the symptoms experienced can vary depending on the underlying condition. Common symptoms of neck pain include:
- Neck stiffness: A common symptom of neck pain is a sensation of tightness or reduced flexibility in the neck. This stiffness may make it challenging to move the head freely.
- Neck soreness or tenderness: The neck may feel sore or tender to the touch, particularly in the affected area or along the muscles and structures of the neck.
- Radiating pain: Neck pain can radiate to other areas, such as the shoulders, upper back, arms, or even the head. The pain may be sharp, dull, or achy, and it can worsen with certain movements or positions.
- Headaches: Neck pain can be associated with headaches, especially if the pain originates from the upper neck or base of the skull. These headaches may be tension-type headaches or cervicogenic headaches.
- Limited range of motion: Neck pain can restrict the normal range of motion in the neck. It may be difficult or painful to turn the head, tilt it backward or forward, or perform other neck movements.
- Muscle spasms: Neck pain can be accompanied by muscle spasms in the neck and upper back. These spasms can cause additional discomfort and restrict neck movement further.
- Numbness or tingling: In some cases, neck pain may be associated with numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles sensation that radiates into the arms or hands. This symptom suggests potential nerve involvement.
- Weakness: Severe neck pain or nerve compression can lead to muscle weakness in the arms or hands. Activities such as lifting objects or grasping may become difficult.
Causes
The causes of neck pain can include:
- Muscle strain or tension: Poor posture, overuse, or sudden movements can strain the neck muscles, leading to pain and discomfort.
- Poor ergonomics: Prolonged sitting, incorrect workstation setup, or improper sleeping positions can contribute to neck pain.
- Cervical disc herniation: A herniated or bulging disc in the neck can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing neck pain and possibly radiating symptoms.
- Cervical osteoarthritis: Degenerative changes in the cervical spine, such as arthritis or bone spurs, can lead to neck pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Whiplash: Sudden acceleration-deceleration forces, often experienced in car accidents, can cause whiplash injury, resulting in neck pain, stiffness, and associated symptoms.
- Cervical stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck can compress the spinal cord or nerves, leading to neck pain, weakness, and other neurological symptoms.
- Injuries or trauma: Sports injuries, falls, or other physical trauma can damage the structures of the neck, resulting in pain.
