With the exception of the top level of the cervical spine, which primarily provides rotation for the skull, most levels of the cervical spine can be described as follows:. Watch Cervical Disc Anatomy Animation. Watch Cervical Nerve Anatomy Animation. Some examples include a degenerated disc pushing into a nerve, or a bone spur growing on facet joints that encroach on a nerve. Neck pain is common among adults, but it can occur at any age. Neck pain can develop suddenly, such as from an injury, or it may develop slowly over time, such as from years of poor posture or wear and tear.
The pain can usually be alleviated with self-care, such as rest, icing the area, or improving posture. Sometimes medical treatments are needed, such as medication, physical therapy, or injection therapy. If nonsurgical treatments are not helping, surgical options may be considered. A doctor should be consulted if pain persists or continues to interfere with routine activities, such as sleeping through the night.
Some signs and symptoms associated with neck pain could indicate the health of a nerve root or the spinal cord is at risk, or perhaps there is an underlying disease or infection. A doctor must be consulted for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. What Causes Neck and Shoulder Pain? Little-Known Causes of Neck Pain. Cervical Radiculopathy Interactive Video.
If a disc in your cervical spine slips out of place or if the tissues in your neck get swollen and inflamed, the nerves in that area can get squeezed. And that means you can have pain and other symptoms in your neck and anywhere along the path of that nerve. Often, the earliest signs of nerve compression are similar to the symptoms experienced when you strain a muscle — that is, aching and pain around the neck, upper back, and shoulder region.
Pinched nerves also commonly occur after slip-and-fall accidents, sports accidents or car accidents. If you have a compressed nerve in your neck and you delay your treatment, you can wind up with shooting, electrical-like pain extending into your back and all the way down your arms.
Over time, a pinched nerve can cause your muscles to become weak, and it can interfere with your ability to use your hands. Eventually, that damage can become permanent, which means delaying care could result in a lifetime of disability.
When you strain a muscle, it can cause inflammation which can, in turn, presses on nerves. Or, you might wind up compensating for the strain by putting excess pressure on other areas of your neck and shoulders, which can also press on nerves.
What does that mean? Even a seemingly minor muscle strain can wind up causing nerve compression, which can then cause serious and even permanent damage.
Be prepared to tell your doctor about the specifics of your symptoms. Treatment for neck pain depends on the diagnosis. In addition to a thorough history and physical exam by your doctor, you may also need one or more of the following imaging studies and tests to help your doctor determine the cause of your neck pain:.
Depending on the results, your doctor may refer you to a specialist. Treatment for neck pain may include:.
Many people experience neck pain because of poor posture and muscle strain. Healthline and our partners may receive a portion of revenues if you make a purchase using a link on this page.
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