Neck Pain

Most episodes of neck pain are due to muscle strain or soft tissue sprain (ligaments, tendons), but it can also be caused by a sudden force (whiplash). These types of neck pain often improve with time and non-surgical care such as medication and chiropractic manipulation. But if neck pain continues or worsens, there is often a specific condition that requires treatment, such as cervical degenerative disc disease, cervical herniated disc, cervical stenosis, or cervical arthritis.

Illustration showing the swath of pain caused by a cervicogenic headache

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What Is Cervicogenic Headache?

Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a secondary headache that occurs because of a physical or neurologic condition in the neck.

Acupuncture needles being placed on a back

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Acupuncture for Chronic Stiff Neck

Some small studies show that acupuncture is an effective treatment for chronic neck pain and stiffness, but more research is needed to find out how long the effects of the treatment last.

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All About Neck Pain

In-depth information about the types of chronic neck pain in the cervical spine including symptoms of the common causes of chronic neck pain.

Woman cooking with vegetables at her stove.

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Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Try for Neck Pain

Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and other foods that are high in antioxidants may help to reduce inflammation induced pain in the body.

Anterior view of the brachial plexus nerves in the neck and shoulder

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Brachial Neuritis (Parsonage-Turner Syndrome)

Brachial neuritis is a rare condition with symptoms of sudden-onset, severe shoulder pain and arm pain, followed by weakness and/or numbness down the arm.

Medical staff preparing patient for CT scan

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Brachial Neuritis Diagnosis

Physicians can typically diagnose brachial neuritis through a patient history and physical exam, but more complex cases may require medical imaging and electrodiagnostic tests.

Medical illustration of nerves of the brachial plexus

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Brachial Neuritis Symptoms

The initial symptom of brachial neuritis is a sudden onset of severe pain in the shoulder and/or upper arm. Later on shoulder weakness, tingling and numbness may also develop.

Tens unit attached to a young man's shoulder

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Brachial Neuritis Treatment

Pain management using medication, heat and ice therapy, rest, or TENs is often the first line of treatment for brachial neuritis. Physical therapy and surgery may also be recommended by a physician.

Numbness and pain in the palmar view of the hand

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vs. Cervical Radiculopathy

Carpal tunnel syndrome results in numbness and weakness in the hand and wrist. Read more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of carpal tunnel.

Illustration showing gas bubbles within the cervical facet joints that lead to crepitus

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Causes of Neck Cracking and Grinding Sounds

The exact cause of neck crepitus is not well always well understood, but articular pressure changes, moving ligaments and tendons, or bone-on-bone grinding may each lead to crepitus.