Bad occupational ergonomics and constant use of computers and mobile phones are the common reasons for neck pain. About 80% of the world's population will suffer from neck pain at some point in their lives. Though this problem is typically easily treatable, it can sometimes lead to serious complications.
Keep on reading to discover the five possible culprits behind the pain in your neck.
1. Injury
Minor neck injuries can be caused by a fall or a twisting of the spine. Stiffness and discomfort that travel to your upper arm and shoulder can result from strains and sprains. Neck pain may also stem from tissue or tendons pressing against nerves. Whiplash resulting from a motor vehicle accident, direct hits, stab wounds, falls from great heights, and sports injuries are all examples of severe neck trauma. Whiplash causes tendons and muscles in your neck to rupture, resulting in headaches and pain. The muscles may feel tight and rigid, and your range of motion may be limited. You'll also most likely experience pain when twisting your neck. Neck pain can also be caused by a dislocation or fracture of the spine. You will experience discomfort from a herniated disc if the spinal disc is torn as a result of the accident.
2. Bad posture
Neck muscles can get overworked due to bad posture, resulting in inflammation and pain. Good posture implies having your ears precisely above your shoulders, with your shoulders back and chest open. The weight of your head will be precisely balanced on your cervical spine in this position. When your neck is inclined forward, the cervical spine is forced to support the increasing weight. As a result of overworking to counterbalance gravity's pull on your head, your neck muscles become more prone to severe strains. Besides, a rounded back may aggravate your neck pain. Looking at your phone or computer, carrying a heavy handbag, or driving for too long are all factors that can cause a forward head posture.
3. Age
Neck pain is common in older people because the discs of the cervical spine become less elastic with age. Your cervical spine is made up of bones divided by cartilage discs. Facet joints connect the vertebrae and ligaments to the muscles that provide support. Over time, degenerative changes occur in these structures. For instance, the cartilage at the ends of joints deteriorates with age. Some changes have no symptoms, while others produce neck or back pain.
4. Disease
Neck pain can also be caused by certain disorders like osteoarthritis. This form of arthritis causes wear and tear of the facet joints, resulting in discomfort and stiffness. Bone spurs, joint swelling, and neck pain are all symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Fibromyalgia is another illness that causes chronic neck pain. The bony canals of your spine constrict and compress the spinal cord and nerves in stenosis. Neck discomfort and stiffness, together with fever, headache, and nausea, are all symptoms of meningitis. Head and neck cancers, like oral cancer and salivary gland tumors, can also cause neck pain.
5. Repetitive movement
Swimming and dancing are examples of repetitive movements that can overwork the ligaments, tendons, and muscles of your neck. Apart from the pain, you may experience discomfort, tingling, and soreness in your neck. Neck pain can also be caused by sleeping in an inconvenient position for an extended period.
The bottom line
If you suspect any of the aforementioned factors to be the cause of your neck pain, don't hesitate and consult an experienced neck pain specialist. A doctor will help you receive the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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