Neck pain, also known as cervicalgia, is a common problem, with a significant portion of the population experiencing it at some point in their lives. Although neck pain is often felt in the neck, it can be caused by a variety of other spinal problems. This pain may arise from muscular tightness in both the neck and upper back, or it could be due to pinching of nerves or other issues.
In cases of a cervical artery dissection, the neck pain is unusual, persistent, and often accompanied by a severe headache. The pain from a carotid artery tear often spreads along the side of the neck and up toward the outer corner of the eye. Conversely, a vertebral artery tear might feel like something sharp is stuck at the base of the skull.
It’s important to differentiate the sources of pain. Most acute pain is related to tissue injury and is termed nociceptive pain. Chronic pain, on the other hand, is referred to as neuropathic pain. This type of pain might start with a damaged or irritated nerve, but the pain signals can eventually originate in the brain.
If your neck aches, it’s no surprise. The structures of your neck must support a heavy weight: your head. Various causes of neck pain are outlined in the newly updated Special Health Report “Neck Pain: A troubleshooting guide to help you relieve your pain, restore function, and prevent injury.” Even without a clearly diagnosed cause, today’s treatments can effectively relieve neck pain.
Neck pain can range from mild discomfort to disabling, chronic pain. It can result from many different causes, including injury, age-related disorders, and inflammatory disease. Getting medical advice as soon as possible after an injury is crucial for minimizing future damage and inflammation.
Neck pain symptoms may vary. Some people experience a burning or tingling sensation, while others may have weakness in their arms or hands. Neck pain can also lead to headaches and may cause pain to travel from the neck down to the back.
Common causes of neck pain include muscle strain or tension, often resulting from everyday activities such as bending over a desk for hours, poor posture, improper monitor height, uncomfortable sleeping positions, or improper lifting techniques.
In terms of sleeping positions, some can be risky for the neck. For instance, sleeping on your stomach requires rotating your head to one side, while sleeping on your side without proper support can push your neck toward your shoulder. Staying in these positions for hours can lead to muscle strain and pain.
For more information, you can refer to the articles Neck pain, When a pain in the neck is serious, What could cause my persistent neck pain?, Neck Pain: A troubleshooting guide, Neck Pain – Health Encyclopedia, Neck Pain Symptoms, Conditions, & Treatments, General Neck Pain, and Getting Rid of Neck Pain: 6 Ways to Feel Better for a deeper understanding of neck pain.
