Neck pain is a common condition that the team at First State Spine addresses. Have you noticed numbness in your hands? A burning pain that shoots from your neck to your fingertips? Are simple tasks such as opening a jar or water bottle becoming difficult? Muscle strains, worn joints, injuries, and nerve compression are all causes of neck pain.

Symptoms often associated with neck pain:

  • Arm Weakness: you could experience pain or weakness in your arms; sometimes this could be your only symptom!
  • Shoulder or Chest Pain: in addition to pain throughout your neck, you may also have pain that extends to the shoulder or to the upper chest.
  • Headaches: tension headaches could also be a symptom; the pain presents itself in the back of your head and occasionally behind your eye or into your ear.
  • Tightness: your muscles may feel tight, especially if you’ve been in one position for a long time.
  • Range of Motion: you may notice that the range of motion in your neck is compromised.

 

When to see a doctor about your neck pain:

  • Your pain endures for several days without relief
  • The pain spreads down arms or legs
  • You experience a headache, numbness, weakness, or tingling
  • There is sudden severe pain after a fall or injury

 

Daily habits to prevent neck pain: