Overview
The neck comprises of bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and nerves, any of which can be a source of pain. Pain can also radiate from the jaw, head, or shoulders to the neck, and vice versa.
Often, the cause of neck pain is muscle and ligament strain, typically due to poor posture or minor injury. In most cases, it gets better over time with treatment. However, if your neck pain is severe and associated with additional symptoms like headaches, numbness, or weakness in your arms or legs, or if it follows an accident, it's important to seek immediate care.
Common Causes of Neck Pain
Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the neck is forcefully bent forward and then backward, or vice versa. Typically, whiplash injuries are caused by sudden neck movement, often during car accidents or contact sports.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joint lining. Unlike wear-and-tear arthritis, RA is considered an inflammatory arthritis and can cause ongoing pain. It tends to affect women more than men.
Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease
Cervical degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a condition affecting intervertebral discs, often due to age, injury, or poor posture. It is common in adults over 50 and can lead to pain, primarily in the neck, shoulders, and arms, which is known as radiculopathy.
Struggling with neck pain? Explore the available treatments for your neck pain here
