Neck Pain

Pain located in the neck is a common medical condition. Neck pain can come from a number of disorders and diseases and can involve any of the tissues in the neck.

  • Examples of common conditions causing neck pain are degenerative disc disease, neck strain, osteoarthritis, cervical spondylosis, spinal stenosis, poor posture, neck injury such as in whiplash, a herniated disc, or a pinched nerve (cervical radiculopathy).
  • Common infections, such as virus infection of the throat, leading to lymph node (gland) swelling and neck pain.
  • Rare infections, such as tuberculosis of the neck, infection of the spine bones in the neck (osteomyelitis and septic discitis), and meningitis (often accompanied by neck stiffness).
  • Conditions directly affecting the muscles of the neck, such as fibromyalgia and polymyalgia rheumatica as well as from uncomfortable positioning of the neck while sleeping with the head on a pillow.

Neck pain can feel like any of the following

  • Stiff neck that makes turning the head difficult
  • Sharp or stabbing pain in one spot
  • Soreness or tenderness in a general area
  • Pain that radiates down into the shoulders, arms, or fingers; or radiates up into the head
Cervical herniated disc

In some cases, other symptoms associated, such as

  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness that radiates into the shoulder, arms, or fingers
  • Trouble with gripping or lifting objects
  • Problems with walking, balance, or coordination
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

Algology Clinic