Neck Pain and Problems

About the neck:
The neck is an extremely flexible part of the body; the bones of which, called the cervical spine, allow more motion than other parts of the spine. Because the neck is less protected than the rest of the spine, it can be easily injured, as well as susceptible to disorders that produce pain and restrict motion.

Neck pain or problems may result from:

• abnormalities in the soft tissues (muscles, ligaments, and nerves) due to prolonged wear and tear or injury
• abnormalities in bones and joints of the spine
• infections
• tumors

Sources of neck pain may include:

• Degenerative and inflammatory diseases, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
  
  Osteoarthritis occurs in older people as a result of wear and tear on the joints between the bones in the neck. Rheumatoid arthritis is an immune system disorder that can cause destruction of the joints of the neck.
  
  Degeneration of the cervical disk -- which acts as a shock absorber between the bones in the neck -- happens when the gelatin-like center of the disk breaks down and the space between the vertebrae narrows. The disk may also protrude, called a herniated disk, which can cause pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

• Injuries may occur because the neck is so flexible, and because it supports the head -- making vulnerable to impact injuries such as motor vehicle or diving accidents, contact sports, and falls.

• Tumors, infections, or congenital abnormalities of the vertebrae occur, but are less common causes of neck pain.

Treatment for neck pain:
Neck pain caused by an accidental injury should be evaluated right away. When there has been no injury, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommend seeking medical care when neck pain is:

• continuous and persistent
• severe
• accompanied by pain that radiates down the arms or legs
• accompanied by headaches, numbness, tingling, or weakness