If you stop to think about it, our necks are quite complex structures, composed of a tangle of bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. We use this joint extensively in daily life, but it is only when an injury limits our range of movement that we realise how important taking care of our neck is.
Neck pain, also known as cervical pain, can range from a minor inconvenience to a debilitating condition that limits one's daily activities. There are many different types of neck pain, and each has its own causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
So let’s take a look at the different types of neck pain and what causes them.
1. Neck strain
If you’ve ever woken up with a stiff neck after sleeping wrong, then you know what a neck strain feels like. This is the most common type of cervical pain that occurs when the neck muscles are overworked or overstretched. It can be caused by repetitive motions, such as typing or playing a musical instrument, or by sudden movements, such as a sudden twist or turn.
Symptoms of neck strain:
- Stiffness in the joint
- Muscle spasms
- Decreased range of motion
2. Whiplash
This type of cervical pain occurs when the neck is jerked back and forth suddenly, such as in a car accident. The injury can also result from sports accidents or from a fall.
In severe cases, whiplash can cause a concussion, spinal cord injury, or other serious health problems.
Symptoms of whiplash:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Decreased range of motion
3. Degenerative disc disease
Degenerative disc disease is a condition in which the discs in the neck deteriorate over time, causing persistent neck pain. This type of neck pain is more common in older adults and can be caused by ageing, injury, or disease.
Symptoms of degenerative disc disease:
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Weakness in the arms and legs
4. Neck pain due to rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. This can affect different parts of the body, such as the neck, as well as the hands, feet, and spine. Hence, rheumatoid arthritis patients may feel neck pain accompanied by other symptoms such as joint stiffness and limited range of motion.
Symptoms of neck pain due to rheumatoid arthritis:
- Neck stiffness
- Limited range of motion
5. Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by widespread pain and tenderness in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This pain is usually felt in the abdomen, back, or neck. It is often difficult to diagnose and treat, as its symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions.
Symptoms:
- Neck, back or abdomen pain
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Headaches
Out of these different types of cervical pain, pain due to a strained neck is the most common. However, this can easily be prevented by taking care of your posture and sleeping position.
Let’s take a look at a few ways to prevent neck strains and stiffness.
How to prevent neck pain
- Maintain good posture: Half of preventing neck muscle pain is making sure you have good posture. Remember to keep your shoulders in line with your hips and your ears directly above your shoulders when sitting or standing. If you use a computer screen often, make sure that it is at eye level.
- Take frequent breaks: Take regular breaks to stretch your neck and shoulders when you’re working long hours or travelling long distances.
- Sleep in the right position: While sleeping, your head and neck should be aligned with your body. Try sleeping on your back and using a small pillow under your neck. The wrong pillow can also lead to neck stiffness upon waking up.
- Exercise: Regular stretches and exercise will help keep your neck muscles strong and flexible, and decrease the chance of injury.
In conclusion, neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, overuse, disease, and ageing. Treatment options for neck pain depend on the underlying cause. While minor strains resolve by themselves, serious injuries may require physical therapy or use of a medical brace, as recommended by your doctor.
Disclaimer
Please note that the above recommendations are general care tips. Consult a healthcare professional in case of any uncertainty around wound treatment and healing.
Always see your doctor if a wound is deep, bleeding profusely or showing signs of infection. For diabetic patients especially, proper wound care holds the utmost importance. Do not hesitate to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor or your podiatrist, even when it comes to minor wounds and cuts – especially if they’re on your feet.
The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Although compiled with great care, it is not a substitute for professional advice. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult your doctor immediately.
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