Neck Pain (Cervicalgia)
Also known as: Cervicalgia, Stiff Neck, Neck Strain, Neck Stiffness
Neck pain is an extremely common condition affecting the cervical spine and surrounding muscles, ligaments, and nerves, with causes ranging from poor posture and muscle strain to degenerative disc disease and cervical stenosis. Modern lifestyles involving prolonged computer use, smartphone use ('tech neck'), and sedentary behavior have contributed to a significant increase in neck pain prevalence. While most neck pain resolves with conservative treatment within days to weeks, persistent or severe neck pain with neurological symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition requiring medical evaluation.
Symptoms
Causes
- Muscle strain from poor posture, prolonged screen use, or sleeping in an awkward position
- Cervical disc degeneration (cervical spondylosis) associated with aging
- Cervical herniated disc compressing a nerve root
- Whiplash injury from motor vehicle accidents or sports
- Cervical spinal stenosis narrowing the spinal canal
- Osteoarthritis of the cervical facet joints
Risk Factors
- Prolonged computer or smartphone use with poor posture (forward head posture)
- Sedentary occupation or lifestyle
- Age over 50 (degenerative changes become more common)
- History of neck injury or whiplash
- Stress and anxiety causing muscle tension
- Sleeping on a non-supportive pillow or in an unusual position
Diagnosis
- Physical examination assessing range of motion, tenderness, and neurological function
- X-rays to evaluate cervical spine alignment and degenerative changes
- MRI for suspected disc herniation, spinal cord compression, or soft tissue pathology
- CT scan for detailed bony anatomy evaluation
- Electromyography (EMG) if nerve damage is suspected
Treatment
- Physical therapy with stretching, strengthening, and postural exercises
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Heat and ice therapy for muscle pain and inflammation
- Muscle relaxants for acute muscle spasm
- Cervical epidural steroid injections for radiculopathy
- Surgical intervention (cervical disc replacement, anterior cervical discectomy and fusion) for severe cases
Prevention
- Maintain proper posture with the head aligned over the shoulders
- Set up an ergonomic workstation with monitor at eye level
- Take frequent breaks from screen time to stretch the neck and shoulders
- Use a supportive pillow that maintains the natural curve of the cervical spine
- Strengthen neck and upper back muscles through regular exercise
- Manage stress to reduce tension-related muscle tightness
When to See a Doctor
- Neck pain persists for more than a week without improvement
- Pain radiates into the arms or hands with numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Neck pain follows a traumatic injury such as a fall or car accident
- You experience difficulty with coordination, walking, or bowel/bladder function
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
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