Neck pain, also known as cervicalgia, is a widespread issue affecting a significant portion of the population at some point in their lives. This discomfort, although primarily felt in the neck, can stem from various spinal problems. One common cause is muscular tightness in both the neck and upper back. Additionally, the pinching of nerves or spinal cord issues can contribute to neck pain.
Surprisingly, everyday activities and routines can often trigger neck muscle strains, leading to pain. Structural neck problems like arthritis, characterized by worn cartilage at the ends of neck bones, or degenerated discs, which are worn cushions between neck bones, are also prominent causes. 
For those experiencing neck aches, it’s crucial to understand that the neck’s structures must support a heavy weight: the head. The many causes of neck pain are diverse, ranging from acute pain due to tissue injury to chronic pain, which might start with a damaged or irritated nerve but eventually originates in the brain.
Pain in the back or neck can be sudden and intense or chronic, lasting weeks, months, or even years. The exact cause of this pain is often challenging to pinpoint, but it can be due to overuse, misuse, injury, or issues with nerves, muscles, bones, joints, or specific spinal areas. It’s also worth noting that certain internal organs, such as the gallbladder and pancreas, can contribute to back and neck pain.
Physicians specializing in spine health are well-equipped to treat back and neck pain. While some neck pain can be serious, like cervical artery dissection, which is unusual, persistent, and often accompanied by severe headaches, most neck pain can be effectively managed with current treatments. Muscle strain or tension, often caused by everyday activities like poor posture or improper lifting techniques, is a common cause of neck pain.
Neck pain – Wikipedia
Surprising causes of neck pain – Harvard Health
Neck Pain: A troubleshooting guide – Harvard Health
What could cause my persistent neck pain? – Harvard Health
Back and Neck Pain – University of Rochester Medical Center
Back & neck pain – Orthopaedic Institute | Northwell Health
Back & Neck Pain | Conditions & Treatments – UR Medicine
When a pain in the neck is serious – Harvard Health
General Neck Pain – McGovern Medical School
