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 comparing a normal vs elongated styloid process.

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Neck Pain from Eagle Syndrome

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.

Medical illustration of the cervical spine, nerves are shown, and muscles are highlighted in pink

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Neck Pain from Fibromyalgia

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

X-ray like image highlighting the spinal cord

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Neck Pain from Lyme Disease

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.

Medical illustration of the nerves in the thoracic outlet

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Neck Pain from Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome is a painful condition that results from compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels running through the thoracic outlet.

Medical illustration of the head and upper back. Muscles and nerves in the neck and upper shoulders are highlighted.

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Neck Pain Symptoms

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.

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Neck Strain Diagnosis

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.

Medical illustration highlighting pain in the neck and upper back muscles

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Neck Strain Symptoms

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.

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Neck Strain Treatments and Prevention

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.

Animated video still highlighting neck muscles

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Neck Strain: Causes and Remedies

A neck strain/sprain occurs when one or more neck muscles, ligaments or tendons are injured. Most minor neck strains heal in a relatively short amount of time.