Cervical neck pain, often simply referred to as neck pain, is a common medical condition characterized by discomfort or pain in the neck region. The cervical spine is the uppermost portion of the spinal column and consists of seven vertebrae, C1 to C7, which support the head and allow for its movement. Neck pain can result from various causes, and it can range from mild and temporary to chronic and debilitating. Discover Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options for Cervical Neck Pain. Our Expert Guides and Tips Help You Relieve Discomfort and Improve Your Neck Health. Explore Now!
Common causes of cervical neck pain include:
Muscle Strain cause cervical neck pain and dizziness
One of the most common causes is muscle strain or tension, often due to poor posture, overuse, or physical stress.
2. Neck Injuries cause cervical neck pain and dizziness
Trauma to the neck, such as whiplash from a car accident or sports-related injuries, can lead to neck pain.
3. Herniated Disc cause cervical neck pain and dizziness
A herniated or bulging disc in the cervical spine can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain.
4. Cervical Spondylosis cause cervical neck pain and dizziness
This is a degenerative condition that occurs with aging, leading to wear and tear of the cervical spine, which can cause pain and stiffness.
5. Arthritis cause cervical neck pain and dizziness
Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the cervical spine and lead to pain and inflammation.
6. Pinched Nerves cause cervical neck pain and dizziness
Nerves in the cervical spine can become pinched or compressed, resulting in pain and other symptoms, such as numbness or tingling in the arms.
7. Infections cause cervical neck pain and dizziness
In rare cases, infections in the neck, such as deep neck abscesses, can cause severe neck pain and require medical attention.
8. Tumors cause cervical neck pain and dizziness
Although less common, tumors or growths in the cervical spine can lead to neck pain.
The specific symptoms of cervical neck pain can include stiffness, limited range of motion, aching, sharp or shooting pain, and sometimes radiating pain into the shoulders, arms, or hands. Treatment for neck pain depends on the underlying cause and can include rest, physical therapy, pain medication, and, in some cases, surgical intervention.
If you’re experiencing persistent or severe neck pain, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional, such as a primary care physician or an orthopedic specialist, to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
How Dr Sumeet Dhawan, as neurologist can help in cervical neck pain?
A neurologist, like Dr. Sumeet Dhawan, can be a valuable healthcare professional in the evaluation and management of cervical neck pain, especially when it is related to neurological issues or conditions. Here’s how a neurologist can help with cervical neck pain:
- Diagnosis: Neurologists are trained to assess and diagnose conditions that affect the nervous system, which includes the cervical spine and the nerves that run through it. They can identify neurological causes of neck pain, such as pinched nerves, cervical radiculopathy, or myelopathy.
- Neurological Testing: Neurologists can perform a range of specialized tests to assess the functioning of the nervous system, including nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG), which can help identify nerve-related issues contributing to neck pain.
- Imaging Interpretation: Neurologists can interpret advanced imaging studies like MRI scans and CT scans to identify structural abnormalities in the cervical spine, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or tumors, which can cause neck pain.
- Differential Diagnosis: Neurologists can differentiate between musculoskeletal causes of neck pain and those with underlying neurological conditions. They can determine if the pain is primarily related to nerves or the spinal cord.
- Treatment Recommendations: Based on their diagnosis, neurologists can recommend appropriate treatment options. This may include medication for pain and inflammation, physical therapy, or, in some cases, referral to a neurosurgeon for surgical evaluation and intervention.
- Ongoing Care: Neurologists can provide ongoing care and monitoring for patients with chronic neck pain related to neurological issues. They can adjust treatment plans as necessary and provide long-term management strategies.
- Referral to Specialists: If the neck pain is related to a specific neurological condition, such as cervical dystonia or radiculopathy, the neurologist may refer the patient to other specialists for more specialized care.
It’s essential to consult with a neurologist if you are experiencing cervical neck pain, especially if it is associated with neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms, as this may indicate an underlying neurological issue. Dr. Sumeet Dhawan, or any qualified neurologist, can play a crucial role in helping to diagnose and manage neck pain with a neurological basis.
Read our other blogs on Cervical Neck pain treatment
What posture changes are recommended for cervical neck pain treatment?- read here
What sleeping posture can prevent cervical pain?
What posture changes are recommended for cervical neck pain treatment?
What life style and postures can cause cervical pain?
Cervical neck pain- Act before it becomes very serious!!
Dizziness in the Elderly: Investigating Common Vertigo Causes
what Driving Posture can prevent neck pain?
Neck pain blog by Cleveland Clinic
Neck pain blog by American Association of neurological surgeons
Review article on neck pain and cervical treatment treatment from PGIMERÂ spine specialist doctor