7 Common Causes Of Neck Pain

Approximately 80% of the American population will experience back pain in their lives.

Neck pain is a common problem that many things can cause, and it can be both frustrating and debilitating. It’s often hard to figure out what’s causing it and how to make it go away.

Keep reading for 7 of the most common causes of neck pain, along with some tips on how to deal with each one.

1. POOR POSTURE

One of the most common causes of neck pain is poor posture. Slouching or hunching over puts unnecessary strain on the muscles and tissues in your neck, leading to pain and stiffness.

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to improve your posture and reduce neck pain. First, make sure that you’re sitting up straight in your chair with your shoulders back.

When standing, keep your weight evenly distributed on both feet and avoid slouching. When sleeping, use a pillow that supports your head and neck in a neutral position. And finally, take regular breaks throughout the day to walk around and stretch your muscles.

With a little effort, you may improve your posture and say goodbye to neck pain for good.

2. MUSCLE TENSION

Another common cause of neck pain is muscle tension. This can be brought on by several factors, from work-related repetitive movements to stress and anxiety.

The constant contraction of the muscles in your neck can lead to pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

This muscle tightness creates an imbalance in the positioning and alignment of your neck, which can also contribute to discomfort or trigger more serious conditions like pinched nerves.

In order to address ongoing neck pain, it is important to address the underlying cause, whether that be addressing stress levels, taking frequent breaks at work, or seeing a doctor for treatment.

With proper care and attention, you can reduce or even eliminate symptoms of chronic neck tension and help keep your neck in good condition for years to come.

3. ARTHRITIS

Arthritis is a common condition that can cause neck pain, especially among older adults. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, occurs when the cartilage between your joints break down.

This can lead to pain and stiffness in the neck. In addition, arthritis may also cause inflammation in the neck, which can further contribute to pain.

Treatment for neck pain caused by arthritis may include over-the-counter pain relievers, physical therapy, and exercises that help to strengthen the muscles around the joints. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged joints.

However, there are many options available to treat neck pain caused by arthritis, and most people can find relief with the right neck pain treatment plan.

4. SLEEPING IN AN AWKWARD POSITION

One often-overlooked cause of neck pain is sleeping in an awkward position. If you sleep on your stomach or back, do so with a supportive pillow under your head and neck for comfort.

This will help to reduce the strain on your muscles and prevent them from becoming sore. Additionally, avoid sleeping on your side with your head tilted to one side for extended periods of time.

This can put unnecessary pressure on your neck and lead to pain. By taking simple precautions, you can help to prevent neck pain and enjoy a good night’s sleep.

5. NECK INJURIES

A car accident, sports injury, or other traumatic events can cause serious damage to the tissues and muscles of the neck. This type of injury can be incredibly painful and requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage.

When the neck is injured, a doctor will assess the extent of the damage and determine if there is any risk of permanent impairment.

Sometimes, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the neck and prevent further damage. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help strengthen the muscles and tissues around the neck.

6. WHIPLASH

Whiplash is a common injury that can occur in a variety of situations. It may occur during sudden movements, such as during car accidents or sporting accidents, or when the head is jerked rapidly in an unexpected direction.

Regardless of how it is caused, whiplash typically involves stiffness, inflammation, and severe pain and discomfort in the neck area.

For many people, this injury can be fairly mild and can resolve with rest and conservative measures, like over-the-counter pain medications or heat/ice packs.

However, for others, particularly those with more severe cases of whiplash, professional treatment or physical therapy may be necessary to fully recover from this condition.

7. PINCHED NERVE

A pinched nerve in the neck can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in the affected area. This occurs when the nerve is compressed or irritated, typically because of a herniated disc or bone spur.

Treatment for a pinched nerve may include rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. If the pain is severe, you may need to see a doctor for corticosteroid injections or other forms of pain management.

Pinched nerves can be painful and disruptive, but with proper treatment from a neck pain doctor, they usually improve within a few weeks.

TREAT THESE CAUSES OF NECK PAIN TODAY

If you’re dealing with chronic neck pain, it’s important to find the causes of neck pain. Contact us today so we can put you on the path to pain relief.

Our team of experts will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. No one should have to live a life in pain.