Introduction
Neck pain is a common condition that may affect one or both sides of the neck and can radiate to the shoulder, arm, or head. The pain can be sharp, dull, burning, or throbbing and may change with movement, posture, or temperature. Most cases are mild and related to poor posture or muscle strain, but some may indicate a more serious problem.
Associated Symptoms
• Headache
• Numbness or tingling in arms or hands
• Weakness in shoulders or arms
• Fever or recent infection
• Recent trauma or accident
Common Causes
1. Muscle Strain: Due to poor posture, long desk work, wrong sleeping position, or carrying heavy bags.
2. Whiplash Injury: From car accidents or sudden jerking of the neck.
3. Cervical Herniated Disc: Pain radiating down the arm, with possible numbness or weakness.
4. Cervical Spondylosis: Age-related wear and tear causing stiffness and chronic pain.
5. Infections: Such as meningitis or abscess, with fever and stiffness.
6. Tension Headache: Starts from the neck and spreads to the head.
7. Referred Pain: Pain from the heart or lungs felt in the neck.
8. Tumors: Rare cause of persistent neck pain.
9. Neurological Causes: Like pinched nerves (radiculopathy) or fibromyalgia.
Assessment
Doctors usually ask:
• When did the pain start? (sudden or gradual)
• What is the type of pain? (sharp, dull, radiating)
• What makes it better or worse? (movement, posture, medication)
• Are there associated symptoms like numbness, fever, or trauma?
Management and Treatment
1. Self-Care (First Days)
• Rest and avoid heavy lifting or long phone use.
• Gentle movement — avoid complete immobilization.
• Ice for 24–48 hours, then heat for relaxation.
• Pain relief with NSAIDs or acetaminophen.
2. Gentle Exercises
• Neck tilts (ear to shoulder).
• Chin tucks (pull chin back).
• Slow side-to-side rotations.
3. Posture and Ergonomics
• Keep screens at eye level.
• Sit upright with neck and back support.
• Avoid looking down at phones for long periods.
4. Sleep and Support
• Use a firm pillow; sleep on your back or side.
• Avoid stomach sleeping.
• Soft collar may help short-term if needed.
5. Stress Management
• Relaxation, breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga.
6. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
• Mild electrical stimulation over painful areas to reduce pain and relax muscles.
Conclusion
Most neck pain cases are mild and improve with posture correction, rest, and gentle exercises. Persistent pain, weakness, or fever requires medical attention to rule out serious causes.
Dr. Talib jijan
Al-Mustaqbal University
The First University in Iraq.