Neck pain is a common condition noticed by many individuals in their everyday. The pain is at times very disturbing that it may be difficult for the individual to perform day-to-day activities. The pain may be felt anywhere in the neck, from the lower portion of the head to the upper part of the shoulders. The neck usually feels stiff and the movement of the neck is usually restricted.^{1, 2}

Causes of neck pain

Neck pain may be caused due to three major reasons: strain to the neck, trauma/injury to the neck or due to some underlying bone and joint disorders. At times pain from other structures around the neck region may radiate till  

Risk Factors for Neck Pain

Risk factors for neck pain

Awkward positioning of the neck during various day-to-day activities is one of the common risk factors that result in neck pain, while increasing age is also considered as a risk factor. Increasing age is generally associated with  

Signs and Symptoms of Neck Pain

Signs and symptoms of neck pain

Neck pain due to the common straining of the neck is usually characterised by pain in the neck region from the bottom of the head to the upper parts of the shoulders or arms. There may be associated stiffness experienced in the  

Diagnosis of Neck Pain

Neck pain is a symptom that is associated with a history of strain, trauma or certain underlying illnesses. The doctor aims at identifying the cause of neck pain in order to arrive at a treatment plan. History of strain on the neck or recent incidents that would have caused stiffness of the neck muscles is generally elicited along with the history of trauma to the neck.

Medical history that involves enquiry about the underlying illnesses is also recorded. The doctor may perform certain physical examination procedures to verify the stiffness and assess the severity of the condition. Laboratory tests that include routine blood tests along with specific tests to assess the fluid normally present around the spinal cord (if meningitis is suspected) may be advised to rule out or confirm the presence of other pathologies.

Imaging studies such as radiographs, CT and MRI scanning may be advised to rule out fractures or other associated abnormalities in the bones and tissues around the neck region.^1,3

Treatment of Neck Pain

Treatment of neck pain

In case of minor injuries or strains home care is considered sufficient enough to decrease the pain and other associated symptoms. Application of an ice pack during the first 24–48 h following such incident is useful in 

Alternative Therapies of Neck Pain

Other alterative therapies that help in relieving the pain include massage, physiotherapy, yoga and acupuncture. However, these therapies are an adjuvant to the medical therapy and a doctor must always be consulted before hand.^5,6

Prevention of Neck Pain

Neck pain can be prevented by avoiding awkward positioning of the neck at home and at work place. Simple steps such as sitting straight, adjusting the computer monitor to a comfortable height, using a comfortable pillow, while sitting or sleeping and not cradling the phone on the shoulders while speaking, go a long way in better health of the neck muscles. Staying fit with proper exercises is helpful in toning the muscles to prevent stiffness.²

In the absence of any underlying conditions, there are no complications associated with neck pain other than temporary restriction of movements.

Neck pain may either persist for a few days to weeks, while at times it may persist for months or years. Depression in the latter case is frequently noticed. Proper care and promptly following the therapeutic protocols helps in reducing the severity of the pain and helps one to lead a stress-free life.  

Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: August 16, 2011