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 diseasecervical herniated disc, cervical stenosis, or cervical arthritis.

Crowned dens syndrome occurs when too many calcium deposits form on the bone’s surrounding ligaments, which can look like a “crown” and cause excruciating neck pain.
When the skull’s styloid process becomes elongated in a manner that pushes against a nerve or blood vessel, it can cause potentially severe pain.

While the symptoms and severity of fibromyalgia can vary greatly, neck pain and stiffness are commonly experienced.

As Lyme disease progresses, a painful and stiff neck can develop. Some people with Lyme disease have even reported a stiff neck as their first noticeable symptom.

Neck pain can range from mild to debilitating. It may also be accompanied by pain or neurological deficits that spread to other areas of the body.

Neck strains typically fall into one of three grades. A physician will often use several tests to diagnose the severity of the strain and propose a treatment plan.
Common symptoms of neck strain include pain, stiffness, and muscle spasms. More serious symptoms like headaches, instability, and visual problems may result if the neck strain is caused by an injury or accident.

Patients with neck strain symptoms may have to try a combination of nonsurgical treatments—including exercise, medication and heat and cold therapy—to alleviate pain while a neck strain heals.

Find a Physician Near You

stethoscope-icon
Search for a Doctor
advertisement