Neck Pain
Neck pain can occur from the top of your shoulders to the bottom of your head. Pain in the neck can lead to limited neck and head movement as well as shoulder, upper back and arm pain. As we age, neck pain can be caused by the wear and tear of tissues and joints. The weaker or more degenerated the tissue or joints in the neck become, the more susceptible the neck is to injury. Neck pain can have many causes, but most of these are not serious conditions. Neck muscles can be strained or pulled from poor posture or even from sleeping in an awkward position. Over time, normal wear and tear or arthritis can also lead to neck pain.
Where is my neck pain coming from?
To understand what is causing your pain, you need to understand what head or neck movements make your neck pain better and worse.
Injuries
Neck pain from an injury is common. Playing sports or even doing chores can sometimes lead to stretching the soft tissues of the neck beyond their limits, which can lead to pain. A car accident can also lead to whiplash, which occurs when the head is jerked forward and backward quickly.
Muscle Strains
Muscle strains from overuse can often leave your neck muscles feeling sore and tender. Muscles strains and overuse can be caused by poor posture, repetitive movements, or even if your neck is left in the same position for a prolonged period of time, perhaps watching a movie from too close in the theatre or sleeping in a funny position.
Worn Joints
Just like any joint in your body, the joints in your neck can experience wear and tear with age. This can lead to arthritis or muscle soreness in the neck.
Nerve Compression
The nerves in your neck can be pinched or compressed causing pain. This pain can be caused by a number of factors, including but not limited to: stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal canal; or herniated discs, when the inner gel like substance of the spinal disc pushes out of the disc and compresses the nerves.
Risk Factors for Neck Pain
Age
As you age, you are more likely to have increased wear and tear on vertebrae, discs, muscles and joints. This can often lead to neck pain and arthritis.
Occupation
If your job requires you to hold your head in the same position for prolonged periods (professional driver, computer work), you may increase your risk for neck pain. The good news is that simple stretching and strengthening exercises can help you reduce your risk for neck pain. Download some simple exercises now!
Preparing for your appointment
Before your appointment, it will be helpful to prepare with a few simple facts.
- How long have you had neck pain?
- Is this pain the result of a recent injury?
- What does the pain feel like? Achy, dull, sharp or shooting?
- Which, if any, movements increase the pain?
- Which, if any, movements decrease the pain?
- Do you feel any numbness or weakness?
Treatment Options:
Neck Pain Doctors and Locations Near You
|
