Neck pain is a common occurrence that many people experience at some point in their lives. The Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 findings showed that 203 million people worldwide suffer from neck pain, predicted to increase by 32% by 2050.[1] From stiff necks caused by sleeping in an awkward position to whiplash from an accident, there are many reasons why a person’s neck hurts.
While certain neck pain cases may resolve on their own or with simple home remedies, some instances require medical care. Understanding the causes, severity, and when to seek treatment can help individuals suffering from neck pain make informed decisions about their care level.
Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain can develop from various factors such as injuries, chronic diseases, aging and accidents. If you can’t identify the source of your neck pain or discomfort, you must see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.
Common causes of neck aches and pain include the following:
- Muscle sprain or strain [2]
- Whiplash [2]
- Poor posture
- Injury or accident
- Nerve compression [2]
- Tech neck [3]
- Arthritis [2]
- Aging [2]
- Slipped discs [2]
- Fibromyalgia [4]
At-Home Neck Pain Treatment
Mild cases of neck pain can often benefit from self-care at home with rest, gentle stretching exercises, and over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.[5] Applying cold or heat to the affected area can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation. Regular massages and good posture, especially when using computers or handheld devices, help promote healing.[6]
When is Neck Pain Serious?
While many people contend with temporary mild neck pain, specific symptoms require medical attention. If neck pain following an accident or injury is severe enough to affect your functionality, seek medical treatment right away. Neck pain that doesn’t improve with self-care and OTC medication may be serious. Severe or persistent neck pain accompanied by weakness, numbness, tingling, or shooting pain radiating down the arms may indicate nerve compression or spinal cord injury.[7]
If neck pain is accompanied by fever, headache and neck stiffness, prompt diagnosis and treatment for a possible case of meningitis is required. Difficulty with balance, coordination, or bladder or bowel control are red flags that require immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional.[8]
What Type of Doctor Should You See for Neck Pain?
Individuals with mild to moderate neck pain may initially consult a primary care physician or a chiropractor. These healthcare providers can assess the severity of the pain, perform a physical examination, and recommend appropriate OTC medications and at-home treatment options. In cases where neck pain is persistent or accompanied by concerning symptoms, your physician may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon, neurologist, or pain doctor for further evaluation and pain management.
Neck Pain Tests & Diagnosis
Diagnosing the underlying cause of neck pain involves reviewing your medical history, performing a physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans may be performed to assess the structure of the cervical spine and identify abnormalities such as herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal canal narrowing.[2] Electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies (NCS) may be ordered to evaluate nerve function and identify areas of compression or dysfunction.[9] A trained medical professional can diagnose neck pain with EMG and NCS tests.
How Pain Management Helps Injuries & Painful Conditions of the Neck
When conservative treatments aren’t enough to quell chronic neck pain, seeking the expertise of a pain management doctor may offer relief and improve quality of life. Pain management specialists are trained to evaluate complex pain conditions, develop personalized treatment plans, and utilize advanced interventions such as nerve blocks, joint injections, physical therapy, and pain medication to alleviate discomfort and improve neck mobility. Whether your neck pain is due to injury, muscle strain or a degenerative disorder, consulting with a pain specialist is a proactive step to address persistent symptoms and enhance your overall well-being.
- Resources:
Wu AM, Cross M, Elliott JM, et al. Global, regional, and national burden of neck pain, 1990–2020, and projections to 2050: a systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. Lancet Rheumatol [Internet]. 2024,6(3):e142-e155. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2665-9913(23)00321-1. Accessed March 5, 2024. Available from:https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanrhe/article/PIIS2665-9913(23)00321-1 - Neck pain. Healthdirect [Internet]. Accessed March 7, 2024. Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/neck-pain
- Millhone C. Signs you may have tech neck. Health. May 24, 2023. Accessed March 7, 2024. https://www.health.com/tech-neck-7488554
- Callewart C. Neck pain from fibromyalgia. Spine Health Knowledge from Veritas [Internet]. August 8, 2017. Accessed March 7, 2024. Available from: https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/neck-pain/neck-pain-fibromyalgia
- Shmerling RH. How to soothe a sore neck. Harvard Health [Internet]. June 15, 2023. Accessed March 7, 2024. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/how-to-soothe-a-sore-neck
- Mayo Clinic Staff. Neck pain: Symptoms when to see a doctor. Mayo Clinic [Internet]. August 31, 2022. Accessed March 7, 2024. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/neck-pain/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050882
- Fletcher J. How to know when Neck Pain is serious. Medical News Today [Internet]. February 24, 2023. Accessed March 7, 2024. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/severe-neck-pain#seeking-medical-care
- When to seek immediate medical attention for neck pain. Harvard Health [Internet]. January 31, 2024. Accessed March 7, 2024. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/when-to-seek-immediate-medical-attention-for-neck-pain
- Electromyography (EMG). Johns Hopkins Medicine [Internet]. April 24, 2023. Accessed March 7, 2024. Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/electromyography-emg
