Physical Health

Neck Pain

Overview

Neck pain is discomfort or pain felt in the neck, shoulders, and upper back area. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting) and can have many different causes.

 

There are several types of neck pain, including:

  • Mechanical neck pain: caused by muscle strain, sprain, or injury
  • Radicular neck pain: caused by a compressed nerve in the spinal cord
  • Inflammatory neck pain: caused by an underlying inflammatory condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis
  • Degenerative neck pain: caused by the deterioration of the discs and bones in the neck
  • Referred neck pain: pain felt in the neck as a result of a problem in another part of the body, such as a heart attack or gallbladder disease

Causes of neck pain can include:

  • Poor posture
  • Strain from overuse
  • Whiplash
  • Herniated disc
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Stress and tension
  • Fibromyalgia

Symptoms of neck pain can include:

  • A dull or sharp pain
  • Stiffness
  • Tenderness
  • Muscle spasms
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
  • Headaches

Diagnosis of neck pain is usually made by a physical examination, an evaluation of medical history and may include imaging tests such as X-ray, CT scan, or MRI.

 

Treatment for neck pain will depend on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Physical therapy or exercise to improve flexibility and strength
  • Chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation
  • Acupuncture
  • Massage therapy
  • Epidural injections for radicular pain
  • Surgery for certain conditions such as herniated disc or spinal stenosis

 

It is important to note that neck pain can be caused by many different factors, and it’s crucial to determine the underlying cause in order to provide effective treatment.

 

You can book an appointment with our specialists to discuss diagnosis and treatment.

 

To learn more about the back pain, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/neck-pain-and-stiff-neck/

 

Dr Ibrahim Yahli MD MRCPsych

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