Neck pain can be caused by injuries, nerve problems, spinal disc problems, muscle problems, medical conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis, and infections like meningitis. Soft tissue strain and protruding discs are common causes. Medical evaluation is necessary for appropriate treatment.
Radiating neck pain has many possible causes, including whiplash or other injuries, nerve problems, spinal disc problems, and muscle problems. Additionally, medical conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis are common causes of neck pain. Infections, such as meningitis, can also cause this problem.
Injuries are a common cause of neck pain. For example, an automobile accident can cause whiplash, which typically results in burning neck pain as the spinal accessory nerve is compressed under the trapezius muscle. Accidents can also cause a condition called spinal stenosis, in which physical injury causes pain in the neck that radiates down and into the right side of the body.
Strain on soft tissue, such as muscles, ligaments, or tendons, can also cause radiating neck pain. If these tissues become irritated, burning, pain, or swelling may occur. These types of conditions are usually easily resolved with anti-inflammatory medications or topical remedies, such as ice packs. Soft tissue damage can be caused by injury, illness, or repetitive behaviors, such as carrying a shoulder bag or heavy bag.
Protruding or slipped discs are also common causes of neck pain that radiates to the arms or along the spine. A doctor can perform an MRI or X-ray to determine if any of these problems are to blame.
There are various autoimmune medical conditions that could include radiating neck pain as a symptom. For example, fibromyalgia causes multiple tender points in soft tissue and often causes chronic neck pain. This condition also causes disruption to rest, as the pain often gets worse while the patient is trying to sleep.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints. The common targets of the disease are the joints of the hands, feet and neck. RA also causes inflammation, causing pain to radiate from damaged joints. Symptoms of the disease may come and go and vary in intensity.
Meningitis is an infectious disease that causes inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. The disease causes pain and swelling throughout the neck and spine and can lead to serious complications, such as brain damage, permanent disability or death.
Various types of neck pain require a medical evaluation to determine appropriate treatment options. Ignoring ongoing neck pain is never a good idea as, over time, the underlying cause of the symptom can get worse and become more difficult to treat. Simple tests and an evaluation by a doctor can provide the patient with the best treatment options.
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