Chronic Neck & Shoulder Pain

Chronic shoulder and neck pain can affect people who use repetitive movements on a job, weightlifters, athletes and older Americans. Pain can originate in the muscles or joints. The intensity of the pain can vary from mild to extreme. Treatment can include a combination of medication, rest and ice, and exercise.

Significance

• According to Harvard Health Publications, "seven out of ten people will be troubled by neck pain at some point in their lives." Shoulder pain is also significant as it often radiates to the neck. People with chronic neck and shoulder pain can miss extended periods of work. It can sometimes take a while for people to overcome the effects of this pain and return to work. Some may require chiropractic assistance or physical therapy.

Types of Muscular Pain

• Most upper body movements require the use of the shoulders and neck. Consequently, these muscles and joints can get strained from overuse. Also, muscles get tighter as a person ages. A person can also have laxity in the shoulder ligaments as they age. Both aging and shoulder laxity can cause chronic neck and shoulder pain. The trapezius, a large muscle that connects with the neck, can ache because of stress. People with poor posture have problems in this area because slumping the shoulders stretches the trapezius muscle. Rotator-cuff pain or tendinitis in the shoulder area can also cause chronic neck and shoulder pain.

Types of Skeletal Pain

• The seven vertebrae (C1 to C7) of the neck contain many nerve endings. A person can suffer pain from a pinched nerve in this area. In this case, nerve roots actually emerge from between the vertebrae. A herniated or bulging disk can also cause root exposure. These conditions are another source of chronic neck and shoulder pain. A person can also pinch a nerve in their shoulder which can radiate to the neck. Seniors can also suffer from osteoporosis or a loss of bone density, which can cause chronic neck and shoulder pain.

Warning

• Chronic neck and shoulder pain can be caused by gall bladder disease. Pain from the gall bladder typically radiates to the right shoulder, which can also affect the neck. Also, inflammation directly under the diaphragm can spur chronic pain in the neck and shoulder area. Doctor's can usually diagnose either condition with an MRI.

Prevention/Solution

• Most chronic shoulder and neck pain can be treated with ice. The cold limits blood flow to the area, which reduces inflammation and pain. Heat can be effective to promote blood flow once swelling is reduced. Ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory medications can also reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Massage can be an effective treatment for loosening tight muscles, as can stretching exercises. Some physical therapists also integrate light weightlifting into their programs to build strength in the shoulders. This can promote the healing process.