1. What is Neck Pain?

Neck pain is discomfort in the area between the base of the skull and the shoulders. It can feel like stiffness, soreness, or sharp pain. Neck pain is very common, and most cases improve with simple care. Sometimes, it can be a sign of an underlying condition that needs medical attention.

2. Causes of Neck Pain

Neck pain can have many causes, including:

• Muscle strain – often from poor posture, long hours at a computer, or sleeping in an awkward position

• Injury – such as whiplash from a car accident or sports injury

• Disc problems – herniated or degenerated discs in the cervical spine

• Arthritis – wear and tear of the joints in the neck

• Nerve compression – from bone spurs or herniated discs pressing on spinal nerves

• Other conditions (less common) – such as infections, tumors, or inflammatory diseases

3. Symptoms

Neck pain symptoms can vary, but may include:

• Stiffness or soreness in the neck

• Pain that worsens with movement, such as turning the head

• Muscle spasms or tightness in the shoulders and upper back

• Headaches, especially at the base of the skull

• Pain that radiates into the arms

• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, severe neck pain after an accident or injury

• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Significant weakness, numbness, or difficulty using your arms or legs

• Fever, weight loss, or unexplained night pain with neck symptoms

4. Diagnosis

To find the cause of your neck pain, your healthcare provider may use:

• Medical history – asking about your symptoms, activities, and health background

• Physical exam – checking movement, strength, reflexes, and nerve function

• Imaging tests (if needed):

  • X-rays (to look for bone problems)

  • MRI or CT scans (to see discs, nerves, and soft tissues)

• Other tests – such as blood work if infection or inflammation is suspected

5. Treatments

Most neck pain improves within a few days to weeks. Treatments may include:

Self-care and lifestyle:

• Rest for short periods (but keep moving gently)

• Applying ice or heat for pain relief

• Gentle stretching and posture exercises

• Using supportive pillows and adjusting work setups

Medications:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)

• Prescription medications if pain is severe

Physical therapy:

• Exercises to improve strength and flexibility

• Posture and ergonomics training

• Manual therapy for stiffness

Other treatments:

• Injections (such as steroid shots) for severe nerve irritation

• Surgery (rare, for severe cases such as spinal cord or nerve compression not improving with other care)

• If symptoms don’t improve with conservative care, minimally invasive spine surgery may be an option. Procedures such as minimally invasive cervical foraminotomy can relieve pressure on nerves while reducing recovery time and scarring.