Neck Pain Overview

Neck pain is common and can be caused by poor posture, osteoarthritis, muscle strains, nerve compression, injuries, or certain diseases. It is important to seek medical care if neck pain is severe, persists for several days without relief, spreads down arms or legs, or is accompanied by headache, numbness, weakness, or tingling.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of neck pain include:

• Pain often worsened by holding the head in one place for long periods, such as when driving or working at a computer.
• Muscle tightness and spasms.
• Decreased ability to move the head.
• Headache.

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate care for severe neck pain resulting from an injury, such as a motor vehicle accident, diving accident, or fall. Contact a health care provider if neck pain:

• Is severe.
• Persists for several days without relief.
• Spreads down arms or legs.
• Comes with headache, numbness, weakness, or tingling.

Causes

Neck pain causes include:

• Muscle strains from overuse or poor posture.
• Worn joints and bone spurs that affect joint motion.
• Nerve compression from herniated disks or bone spurs.
• Injuries, such as whiplash from auto collisions.
• Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, meningitis, or cancer.

Prevention

To help prevent neck pain, consider the following tips:

• Use good posture, keep your head centered over your spine, and avoid bending your neck to look down at screens.
• Take frequent breaks, move around, and stretch your neck and shoulders.
• Adjust your desk, chair, and computer for better ergonomics.
• Quit smoking to reduce the risk of developing neck pain.
• Avoid carrying heavy bags with straps over your shoulder.
• Sleep in a healthy position with a small pillow under your neck and try sleeping on your back with your thighs elevated on pillows.
• Stay active to increase your activity level.