Neck Pain

What is neck pain? What causes neck pain?

Pain located in the neck is a common medical condition. Neck pain can come from a number of disorders and diseases such as: neck strain, degenerative disc disease, whiplash, herniated disc, or a pinched nerve. Neck is also referred to as cervical pain.

What are other symptoms that are associated with neck pain?

Neck pain is commonly associated with dull aching. Sometimes pain in the neck is worsened with movement of the neck. Other symptoms associated with some forms of neck pain include numbness, tingling, tenderness, sharp shooting pain, fullness, difficulty swallowing, pulsations, swishing sounds in the head, dizziness or lightheadedness, and gland swelling.

What are the structures of the neck?

There are seven vertebrae that compose the spine in the neck which surround the spinal cord and canal. Between these vertebrae are discs, and nearby pass the nerves of the neck. Within the neck, structures include the neck muscles, arteries, veins, lymph glands, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, esophagus, larynx, and trachea. Diseases or conditions that affect any of these tissues of the neck can lead to neck pain.

How is neck pain treated?

The treatment of neck pain depends on its precise cause. Treatment options can include anything from: rest, heat/ice applications, traction, soft collar, traction, physical therapy (ultrasound, massage, manipulation), local injections of cortisone or anesthetics, topical anesthetic creams, topical pain patches, muscle relaxants, analgesics, and surgical procedures.