Neck pain is the 4th leading cause of disability, with a 30% prevalence rate. Adults are affected mainly by neck pain, with a percentage of 29% of men and 40% of women. Neck pain is commonly increasing these days, with a considerable impact on the personal and professional lives of individuals.
What is Neck Pain?
Neck pain or cervicalgia is a pain in or around the spine beneath the base of the skull. The neck is also known as the cervical spine. Injuries or other medical conditions can cause neck pain.
Neck pain can be acute (lasting from a few days to six weeks) or chronic (longer than 3 weeks). You might have axial (pain in the neck region) or radicular (pain that shoots in the shoulders and arms). There are different types of neck pain based on the cause and location of the neck.
Neck pain can hinder daily activities and reduce quality of life if left untreated.
Mechanical Neck Pain
The most common type of neck pain is mechanical neck pain. This pain is typically felt in the neck, arms, and shoulders. It often worsens when you maintain a position for an extended period. Additionally, it can restrict head movement and lead to muscle spasms. It can also cause headaches.
Neck pain usually subsides after a few days; however, if it worsens, it may indicate a more severe condition.
Mechanical neck pain is caused by straining neck muscles, which occurs with sustained posture or specific neck movements. It affects muscles, tendons, and spinal joints.
Occupations that require repetitive neck movement or the same posture for an extended period, such as computer jobs, are at risk of mechanical neck pain.
Radicular Neck Pain
Cervical radiculopathy describes a compressed nerve in the neck region. Nerves in this area of the spine primarily control the sensation in your arms and shoulders; this is more likely where you will feel symptoms of cervical radiculopathy.
The nerve root that runs through the cervical spine branches out of the cervical vertebrae. These nerves are compressive. Damage to these nerve roots can cause neck pain and diminish motor strength, reflexes, or sensation. Depending on where the damage is located, you might experience weakness in your arms and shoulders.
A weak grip can lead to dropping objects, and this condition requires medical attention. One major cause of radicular neck pain is cervical spondylosis, which occurs due to age-related wear and tear that compresses the nerve roots in the spine. Another significant factor is a herniated disc, which is most commonly found in the lower back but can also affect the neck and cause pain.
Upper Neck Pain
The pain that starts at the base of the skull is mainly caused by stress or tension in the back muscles. Leaning forward or having poor head posture can strain neck muscles, which can cause pain. This is one of the types of neck pain which effects most of the population worldwide.
However, upper neck pain can be debilitating, affecting our daily lives and overall well-being. Watch out for the reasons to prevent neck pain. The following are the causes of upper neck pain:
Poor posture: Sitting or standing for extended periods with improper posture can strain the muscles and ligaments in the upper neck, leading to pain.
Muscle tension: Stress and anxiety can cause neck and upper back muscles to tighten, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Poor ergonomics: Incorrect positioning of the computer monitor, chair, or desk can strain the neck muscles, causing pain.
Trauma: Injuries such as whiplash from a car accident or a sports-related impact can cause upper neck pain.
Arthritis: Degenerative changes in the bones and joints of the neck can lead to pain and stiffness.
Herniated disc: A bulging or ruptured disc in the upper spine can compress the nerves and cause pain in the neck.
Migraines: Chronic or severe headaches can originate from the upper neck, causing intense pain.
Lower Neck Pain
Lower neck pain, also known as cervical pain, is characterized by discomfort or stiffness in the area between the base of the skull and the top of the shoulders. It can range from a mild annoyance to a debilitating condition significantly impacting one’s quality of life. Understanding its various causes is essential for better managing and alleviating lower neck pain.
Muscle strain is one of the most common causes of lower neck pain. This occurs when the neck’s muscles and tendons are overstretched or torn due to sudden movements or excessive stress by poor posture, repetitive motions, and carrying heavy loads can all contribute to muscle strain in the lower neck.
Emerging Treatments and Therapies
Various alternative therapies and practices can provide relief from neck pain. While consulting with a healthcare professional before trying any new treatment is essential, you may find the following alternative therapies helpful.
Acupuncture: This ancient Chinese practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the skin to restore balance and alleviate pain. Acupuncture effectively relieves neck pain by stimulating the release of endorphins and improving blood circulation.
Chiropractic care: Chiropractors use spinal adjustments, joint manipulation, and other techniques to treat musculoskeletal issues, including neck pain. Through manipulation and manual therapy, chiropractors aim to reduce pain and restore normal function to the affected joints and muscles.
Wearable Posture Correctors: These help correct posture and alleviate pain.
KKT Treatment
KKT treatment starts with a thorough analysis of the patient’s history and the duration of their pain. The doctor may conduct tests to identify the specific types of neck pain. After this assessment, they will create a treatment plan aimed at addressing the root cause of the pain.
KKT Treatment corrects spine misalignment, reduces pressure on nerves, improves blood circulation, and relieves compressed nerves. Ultimately, it eradicates the root cause of pain and provides long-lasting relief from neck pain.
To learn more about this treatment, give us a call or book your appointment with our consultants.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the different types of neck pain?
Neck pain can be classified as acute, chronic, mechanical, or radicular.
- How do I know if my neck pain is acute or chronic?
Acute neck pain lasts less than 6 weeks, while chronic pain persists beyond 3 months.
- What causes mechanical neck pain?
Mechanical neck pain is often caused by strain, poor posture, or wear and tear in the neck’s muscles, joints, or ligaments.
- How can radicular neck pain be treated?
Radicular neck pain may be treated with correcting spinal misalignment, physical therapy, medications, or, in severe cases, surgery.
- What are the common symptoms of neck pain?
Symptoms include stiffness, muscle spasms, reduced range of motion, and sometimes pain radiating to the arms or head.
- Can neck pain be a sign of a more serious health issue?
If accompanied by alarming symptoms, neck pain could indicate a serious condition like a herniated disc, infection, or meningitis.
- How can poor posture contribute to neck pain?
Poor posture increases strain on the neck muscles, leading to stiffness and pain over time.
- What lifestyle habits can increase my risk of neck pain?
Risk factors include prolonged screen time, poor ergonomics, lack of exercise, and sleeping awkwardly.
- When should I seek medical help for neck pain?
Seek medical attention if neck pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by numbness, weakness, or fever.
- How can I prevent neck pain in my daily routine?
Maintain good posture, take breaks from screens, use ergonomic setups, and exercise regularly.
- Are there any home remedies for neck pain?
Ice or heat packs, gentle stretches, over-the-counter pain relief, and rest can help alleviate neck pain.
- What are the best exercises for relieving neck pain?
Neck stretches, chin tucks, shoulder rolls, and gentle yoga can reduce tension and improve mobility.