If you’re reading this, you’re probably familiar with neck pain. 

The neck, also known as the cervical spine, is a network of nerves, bones, joints, and muscles that serves an essential function in providing support and movement for the head. Yet, it can be vulnerable to pain.

This article from Massage Rx will provide helpful information about neck pain and so much more – so keep reading!

What is neck pain?

Many people endure occasional neck pain or stiffness. It is often caused by bad posture, overuse, or sleeping in an uncomfortable position. Also, neck pain is sometimes caused by an injury from a fall, contact sports, or whiplash.

Neck pain may be painful and can interfere with daily activities such as sleeping, feeling productive, and spending time with friends and family. And it has an impact on more than just your physical body – according to studies, chronic pain may influence a person’s mental health; up to 85 percent of chronic pain sufferers suffer from severe depression.

What are the causes of neck pain?

Neck pain is more common in those over the age of 50. But, the reasons for neck discomfort are as diverse as the list is extensive. In that regard, below is a list of some of the most prevalent causes of neck pain:

Injury

Health Conditions

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Other forms of arthritis
  • Spinal infection
  • Spinal cord compression
  • Tumor
  • Fracture
  • Fibromyalgia

Lifestyle Issues

  • Extra weight
  • Stress
  • Poor posture
  • Working for too long without changing position
  • Sleeping with a bad neck position
  • Jerking the neck while exercising

What are the symptoms of neck pain?

Other symptoms may accompany the discomfort in addition to the neck pain. The following are some of the most prevalent symptoms of neck pain:

  • Headaches – Headaches in the occipital area (back of the scalp) are frequent, but they can also spread to the top of the head, resulting in “tension” headaches from muscular stiffness.
  • Weakness down the arm – This might be the result of muscular exhaustion or nerve constriction. Frequently along certain nerve roots.
  • Loss of mobility or stiff neck – Neck pain frequently causes people to describe their neck as “tight” or “stuck,” and can occasionally cause a loss in the range of motion.
  • Pain when moving – Moving, twisting, or stretching your cervical spine from side to side or up and down might aggravate neck pain.
  • Sharp pain – Sharp or “stabbing” discomfort in one region of the neck may be experienced.

The degree and length of neck pain symptoms vary. Neck discomfort is frequently acute and lasts only a few days or weeks. At times, it may become persistent. Your neck discomfort may be minimal and not interfere with your regular activities, or it may be severe and cause impairment.

What are the treatment options for neck pain?

The reason for neck discomfort determines the treatment. A complete history and physical exam by your doctor may be required, as well as one or more tests to assist your doctor to discover the source of your neck discomfort and make a diagnosis. Neck pain treatment options include:

  • ice and heat therapy
  • exercises (including stretching)
  • physical or massage therapy
  • medication
  • injections
  • muscle relaxants
  • neck collar
  • surgery
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A pain-free neck is vital, but we don’t appreciate it until it’s gone. Neck pain may make life difficult, affecting your social life, family time, hobbies, and even job productivity. So, call Massage Rx immediately for the best neck pain massage – we can do in-home massage services too! We also provide lymphatic drainage massage! Contact us now to learn more!