Neck Pain

Conditions & Symptoms

The most common cause of neck pain is soft tissue injury - strain of the muscles, ligaments or tendons in the cervical spine. Other causes include myofascial pain syndrome, whiplash, degenerative disc disease, facet joint syndrome, herniated disc and spinal stenosis. The most common symptoms are pain, stiffness and muscle spasms in the neck and upper back. Pain, numbness and tingling into the arm and hand often occur with cervical radiculopathy.

Examination & Diagnosis

Your doctor will conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination to determine the cause of your pain. In many cases, diagnostic studies are not necessary. X-rays are usually the initial study obtained. In some cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized tomography (CT scan) or bone scan is needed to diagnose your condition. Electrodiagnostic studies (EMG/NCS) are often obtained to evaluate for nerve damage or other neurologic conditions that cause pain.

Treatments & Procedures

The majority of cases resolve within 4-6 weeks. Initial treatment consists of relative rest, ice or heat and over-the-counter pain medications. Bed rest should be avoided and you should remain as active as possible within your limits of pain. Physical therapy is often prescribed to stretch and strengthen neck and upper back muscles. Interventional pain procedures may also be helpful in certain conditions. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary.