The human neck is a very important region because of all the vital structures in it. It contains the throat (called the pharynx), the oesophagus, large blood vessels, important muscles, nerves, and part of the spine (the backbone). The neck also has the very important function of holding up the head and moving it smoothly. The spine in our neck is more flexible than in any other region of the body, allowing for these fluid head movements. Still, the average adult head weighs 5 kg, which is a lot of stress and weight to be constantly placed on the neck. A variety of stress-related neck problems can lead to injury and pain in the neck. There may be decreased or abnormal movement of the neck and head as well.
The neck can also be injured by other means, such as in accidents or falls. Regardless of the cause, most neck problems are associated with neck pain. The timing and exact type of pain often acts as a clue, indicating the type of neck problem that exists.
Most neck problems occur with any of the following symptoms:
While neck pain may be a sign of something wrong with the neck itself, sometimes neck pain is a sign of something wrong with other organs. For example, a heart attack may feel like neck pain. Burning neck pain after eating might be a sign of reflux or something wrong with your oesophagus. To rule out very dangerous causes and to start working on a treatment, it’s important to talk to your doctor about whatever neck symptoms you might be experiencing.
Neck problems are extremely common. More than 7 out of 10 people will experience them at some point in their lives. There’s a wide range of specific causes for neck problems, some of which include:
The risk factors for neck pain and problems can be split into two main categories, psychological and biological:
Psychological Risk Factors
Biological Risk Factors
Neck pain is usually diagnosed by a doctor’s assessment. The doctor will want to know the history of the neck pain, such as when it started, how it feels, and what makes it get better or worse. Sometimes a doctor may request an X-ray of the neck and shoulder area to check how the bones in that region look. More in-depth scans, like CT-scans or MRIs are more rarely requested. Your doctor may also want to get a blood test, to check for things like calcium levels, anaemia, and hormone levels; all of which may affect neck pain.
Most of the neck problems people have are treated conservatively, which means without any serious medications or surgery. Your doctor will likely recommend a combination of strength exercises, stretching, mild pain relievers, and rest. You may be referred to physical therapy, which will help even more with strength, flexibility and maintaining the correct posture to avoid injuring your neck in the future.
Sometimes other medicines, like muscle relaxants or steroids are given, alongside pain relievers. Rarely, a collar or a brace is recommended, to give proper alignment of the neck and spine. Surgery may also be recommended, but just like collars, this is a treatment that is usually done only in severe or life-threatening cases of neck pain. Ultimately, most neck problems are managed and improve without the need for surgery.