Neck Pain Facts

Most of us have suffered from a pain in the neck, literally, at one time or another. If we have poor posture or are hunched over a computer all day long it can lead to neck pain. It usually isn't serious and goes away in a few hours, but if it lasts for days or weeks it's considered chronic pain, and you should see your doctor.

Disks

• As we age, the disks in our neck that serve as cushions between the vertebrae get stiff and dry, and the space between the vertebrae becomes narrower as a result. These disks can herniate. When this happens the gelatinous cartilage inside the disk sticks out through the tough cartilage covering and can cause neck pain and irritate nearby nerves. Spurs, which are bony growths, can also press on the nerves and cause pain.

Muscle Strain

• According to the Mayo Clinic, muscle strain is a common trigger of neck pain. Typically, when the muscles in the back of your neck become strained and fatigued from overworking them pain ensues.

Cervical Osteoarthritis

• As we age, our joints get worn out, and this can result in osteoarthritis, which is considered the wear-and-tear form of arthritis. If you have cervical (neck) osteoarthritis it will make your neck stiff and painful.

Whiplash

• If you have been injured in a car wreck or other activity and are experiencing neck pain it may indicate you are suffering from whiplash. This condition typically occurs in rear-end collisions, when the head is jerked forward and then backward, which stretches the soft tissues of the neck far beyond their limit.

Time to See a Doctor

• If you are suffering from severe neck pain, seek medical treatment. If you have received a blow to the neck or head you may have suffered a fracture or ligament injury. If you experience shooting pain through your shoulder or down your arms and your fingers are tingling it may indicate that you have sustained nerve irritation. If you have weakness in your legs or arms or find that you are shuffling your feet you may be suffering from a neurological problem. Additionally, if you notice a big change in your bowel or bladder habits, such as the inability to hold your urine, this could indicate that there is neurological damage.