Neck Pain

According to the 2016 National Health Statistics Report, 50% of U.S. adults experience musculoskeletal pain, and 14.3% experience neck pain or problems. Neck pain varies in severity and can be caused by genetic disorders, poor posture, arthritis, and a variety of other skeletal and muscle issues.

If your pain is accompanied by numbness or weakness, consult with your doctor immediately, as this could be a sign of a more serious condition.

Symptoms of Neck Pain

This kind of pain can manifest as aches, shooting or stabbing pain, or a burning sensation. You may have difficulty turning or tilting your head, looking down, and you may experience regular headaches.

Causes of Neck Pain

Arthritis – Arthritis is when the cartilage between bones wears away. Spinal Stenosis, a type of arthritis in the spine, compresses the nerves. Spinal Stenosis most often occurs in the lower back and neck.
Bulging or Ruptured Disc – The spine is composed of shock-absorbing discs that act as cushions between vertebrae. These discs can become pinched or protrude outward causing severe pain. In addition, bulging or ruptured discs can cause pain in the lower back and shooting pain down the back of the leg.
Injury – If you’re feeling pain in your neck it can be the result of falling, athletic participation, car accidents, or mishaps during everyday activities. If you think you have suffered a neck injury, consult with your doctor immediately.
Muscle Strain or Spasm – Awkward movements can cause significant strain on the spine and neck muscles.

Preventing Neck Pain

Exercise – Keep your body in motion through walking, swimming, aerobics, and other low-intensity exercises.
Maintain Healthy Weight – Carrying extra weight puts added strain on the spine and neck muscles.
Posture – Sitting, standing, sleeping, and lifting properly help prevent the pain. When lifting heavy objects, make sure to lift with your legs and not your back.
Regular Chiropractic Adjustments – Visit your chiropractor regularly to identify and prevent potential back and neck issues before they become chronic problems.
Adjust Your Chair – If you work at a computer, adjust your chair so that your monitor is at eye level. This helps reduce the likelihood of developing a stiff neck by maintaining good posture.
Sleep Position – When you sleep, your head and neck should be aligned with the rest of your body. Use a pillow to prop up your neck when sleeping to help mold your body to the natural curvature of your spine.

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Neck Pain

Symptoms of Neck Pain

Causes of Neck Pain

Preventing Neck Pain

Additional Resources