Neck Pain

What is Neck Pain?

Neck pain is a common complaint. Neck muscles can be strained from poor posture — whether it's leaning over your computer or hunching over your workbench. Osteoarthritis also is a common cause of neck pain. Rarely, neck pain can be a symptom of a more serious problem. Seek medical care if your neck pain is accompanied by numbness or loss of strength in your arms or hands or if you have shooting pain into your shoulder or down your arm.

Symptoms

Neck pain symptoms include: • Pain that's often worsened by holding your head in one place for long periods • Muscle tightness and spasms • Decreased ability to move your head • Headache • Pain that radiates to shoulders, arms, or fingers • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in arms or hands • Difficulty swallowing or breathing (in severe cases) • Stiffness, particularly in the morning

Diagnosis

Diagnosis may include: • Physical examination to check range of motion, posture, and nerve function • X-rays to look at bone structure and alignment • CT scan for more detailed bone images • MRI to visualize soft tissues, discs, nerves, and spinal cord • Electromyography (EMG) to check nerve function • Blood tests to rule out infection or inflammatory conditions • Myelogram to assess spinal canal and nerves

Treatment

Treatment options include: • Rest and activity modification • Ice and heat therapy • Over-the-counter pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen) • Gentle exercises and stretching • Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility • Posture correction and ergonomic adjustments • Soft cervical collar for short-term use • Massage therapy • Muscle relaxants for spasms • Corticosteroid injections for severe pain • Surgery in rare cases (disc removal, spinal fusion)

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