Spine Conditions
Neck Pain
Neck pain is a common condition that affects many people at some point in their lives. It can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from poor posture to injury or disease. Neck pain can range from mild to severe and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as headaches, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
Symptoms
The symptoms of neck pain can vary depending on the underlying cause, but common symptoms may include:
- Pain or stiffness in the neck
- Headaches
- Limited range of motion
- Tingling or numbness in the arms or hands
- Muscle weakness in the arms or hands
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Causes
There are many potential causes of neck pain, including:
- Poor posture: Maintaining a poor posture while sitting or standing for long periods can strain the muscles and cause pain in the neck and upper back.
- Injury: Trauma or injury to the neck, such as whiplash from a car accident, can cause pain and stiffness.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of arthritis can cause inflammation and pain in the neck.
- Nerve compression: A herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other condition that compresses the nerves in the neck can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms or hands.
- Tumors: In rare cases, tumors can develop in the neck or spine and cause pain and other symptoms.
- Infection: Infections such as meningitis or osteomyelitis can cause neck pain.
