Neck Pain

Neck pain can occur anywhere in your neck, from the base of your skull to the tops of your shoulders. It may radiate to your upper back or arms and can restrict your head and neck movement. Neck pain is common, particularly in individuals over 50.

Neck pain can be categorized by the duration of symptoms, source of pain and symptoms. Acute neck pain is often the result of an injury and is a sudden attack that resolves within a few weeks to a few months. Subacute neck pain lasts longer than acute, sometimes up to 12 weeks, and is typically also caused by injury. Chronic neck pain is often the result of arthritis, degenerative conditions or nerve damage. It can last longer than three months.

Common sources of neck pain include:

• Axial neck pain
• Facet joint neck pain
• Muscle spasm
• Myelopathic neck pain
• Radicular neck pain
• Referred neck pain (originating in another part of the body and radiating to the neck)

Neck pain can result from activities that strain the neck, such as slouching, painting a ceiling or sleeping with your neck twisted. It can also occur due to an injury, such as a fall or whiplash from a car accident. Certain medical conditions can contribute to neck pain. Occasionally, there may be no clear cause.

The risk of experiencing neck pain increases with poor posture, unhealthy sleep habits, injuries, repetitive motions and preexisting medical conditions like spinal stenosis and osteoarthritis. Other risk factors include: 

• Herniated disc
• Pinched nerve, or compression of a nerve in the neck
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking
• Sports injuries
• Traumatic events or accidents
• Whiplash 

You can avoid some neck pain by adopting new habits. Avoid positions that strain your neck. Sit up straight in your chair with your feet flat on the floor. Take short breaks. Avoid sleeping on your stomach with your neck twisted. Consider using pillows that support your neck straight.

You may experience a knot, stiffness or sharp pain in your neck, which may radiate to your shoulders, upper back or arms. You could also develop a headache, and it may be difficult to turn your head. Additionally, you might encounter shooting pain, numbness, tingling or weakness in your arm.

Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and potential causes of neck pain. You will be examined to assess your neck’s mobility and to check for tenderness, numbness, tingling or weakness in your arms or hands. Your doctor may also recommend X-rays and conduct blood tests to look for infection or illness.

Most neck pain can be managed at home with exercises and other tools, such as a heating pad or ice that can be applied every few hours for 10 to 15 minutes. Alternate how you sit or sleep to prevent further injury.

Consider physical therapy. Specialists from the Montefiore Einstein Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation will create a personalized treatment plan to manage your pain symptoms. Doctors may recommend anti-inflammatory medication or prescribe other treatments. Surgery is rare but may be needed in severe cases.