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Neck Pain

Neck pain is a common complaint that can be caused by muscle tension or changes in the spine. The pain may be accompanied by neck stiffness.

Possible causes

  • Muscle tension, for example, from poor posture at work or stress.
  • Wear-and-tear changes in the cervical spine (e.g., osteoarthritis).
  • Trauma or injury to the neck area (e.g., a spinal injury from a car accident).
  • A herniated disc in the neck.Muscle tension caused by factors like sedentary work, poor posture, or stress. Age-related wear and tear (degenerative changes) of the neck bones. A pinched or irritated nerve (for example, from a slipped disc), which causes pain to radiate into the arm. Less commonly, a serious illness (e.g., a tumour, infection, rheumatic disease) or an injury.

Should I see a doctor?

Most neck pain is not serious and gets better with home care, such as using painkillers and staying active. You should see a doctor if the pain is very severe, does not get better with treatment, or lasts for more than a couple of weeks. You need to see a doctor quickly if your neck pain is accompanied by progressive muscle weakness, numbness in your hands, fever, unexplained weight loss, or if the pain started after an injury.

Related services

  • General practitioner’s appointment
    The general practitioner helps with almost all health questions, provides an initial assessment, prescribes treatment if necessary, and refers for fur

  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
    Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) creates detailed, three-dimensional cross-sectional images of soft tissues, organs, and ligaments.

  • Orthopedic operations
    Orthopedic surgeries offer a surgical solution to diseases and injuries of joints, bones, and soft tissues, restoring mobility and relieving pain.

  • Orthopedist’s appointment
    An orthopedist is a specialist in bone and joint diseases and injuries who diagnoses, treats, and prevents problems of the musculoskeletal system.

  • Physiotherapist’s appointment
    Physiotherapy is a form of movement and rehabilitation therapy that uses exercises to relieve pain and prevent problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common cause of neck pain?

The most common type of neck pain is non-specific local pain, where the exact cause cannot be found. It is often related to muscle tension, sedentary work, poor posture at work, or psychosocial stress.

Can I exercise if I have neck pain?

Yes, staying active and continuing with your usual activities is recommended, even with acute pain. For chronic neck pain, neck and shoulder muscle exercises that improve muscle strength and endurance are particularly helpful. You should only avoid movements that make the pain worse.

When is neck pain dangerous?

Neck pain is rarely dangerous. Warning signs include unbearable pain that does not get better with rest, fever, weight loss, exhaustion, or progressive muscle weakness and sensation changes in the hands. If you experience these symptoms, you should see a doctor.

Do I need an imaging scan (like an X-ray or MRI) for neck pain?

In most cases, imaging scans are not necessary for neck pain. A doctor may refer you for a scan if they suspect a serious illness, if the pain radiates to your arm, if you have muscle weakness, or if the pain has lasted for more than three months and is not responding to treatment.

How can I relieve neck pain at home?

For acute pain, you can use over-the-counter painkillers (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen). A cold or hot pack can also provide short-term relief. It is important to stay active and avoid long periods of bed rest.

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