Is Your Neck Pain From Arthritis or Something More Serious?

Neck pain is a common ailment that many people experience, but not everyone knows its root cause. With the structures of our necks responsible for supporting our heads, it’s no surprise that they often suffer from strain and discomfort. However, what causes this pain? Is it the wear and tear of arthritis, poor posture, or something more severe?

The two primary causes of arthritis in the neck and back are inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis. But neck pain isn’t always the result of arthritis. Degenerative disk disease, declining muscle strength, poor posture, stress, and even lack of sleep can exacerbate the discomfort. Moreover, while most of the time neck pain doesn’t signify a severe medical issue, it’s essential to be aware of some rare but serious conditions. One such condition is a cervical artery dissection, a tear in one of the arteries of the neck.

Symptoms of pain in the facet joints (a part of the vertebrae of the neck) can range from deep, sharp, or aching sensations. This pain typically worsens when leaning the head towards the affected side and can radiate to the shoulder or upper back. If you have arthritis in the facet joints, it might feel more intense in the morning or after a period of inactivity, resembling nerve pain.

Fortunately, even if the exact cause of your neck pain isn’t diagnosed, there are various treatments available today that can offer relief. Furthermore, adopting certain practices and habits can help prevent the recurrence of neck pain. For instance, these six tips can be beneficial for those seeking relief from their neck pain. For a deeper dive into understanding and treating neck pain, the Neck Pain: A troubleshooting guide is an excellent resource.

Always remember, while neck pain can be bothersome, understanding its causes and treatment options can go a long way in managing and, eventually, alleviating it.