Do you often have a painful neck? Don’t worry, you’re not the only one. A lot of people worldwide – around 75% – and many in the U.S. have this issue. We often don’t appreciate having a pain-free neck until it starts to hurt. A throbbing neck can impact pretty much everything – hanging out with friends, enjoying hobbies, and even work gets tough.
The kind of neck pain you feel can differ, ranging from a light ache to a searing, pulsating pain that may even extend to your shoulder and arm. This pain can come on suddenly or develop over time. Most neck pains, thankfully, don’t require surgery and can be managed with some home self-care or with a medical professional’s help. And yes, there are physical therapy clinics available that specifically help with easing neck pain.
But bear in mind, it’s not just about physical discomfort. A sore neck can really impact your day-to-day life, making simple things such as sleep or enjoying time with family difficult.
Let’s dig into different types of neck pain:
1. Axial, or Mechanical, Neck Pain: This is the most common form. It stays in one area and doesn’t spread. It can feel dull, painful, or even like a piercing sting. Bad posture or certain movements can make it worse. It’s usually caused by neck muscle strains or sprains. Some types of spinal wear and tear or injury can also trigger this pain.
2. Referred Pain: This is when the pain is felt in a different area than where the actual issue is, not because of a nerve issue. It often feels deep, throbbing, and may spread. It can affect one or both sides of the body. This pain can usually be alleviated with proper treatment.
3. Radicular Pain: This happens when a neck nerve root gets inflamed. The pain may travel down into the shoulder, arm, and hand. It can feel like a sudden shock. Certain movements can make it worse. It typically affects one side, but may also hit both.
4. Myelopathic Pain: This occurs when the spinal cord in the neck is pinched. The symptoms may appear further down the body, like in the legs or feet, which can make it tricky to diagnose.
Let’s also look at some ways to soothe neck pain:
– Ice or Heat: Using an ice pack can minimize swelling and pain. Using warmth can relax muscles and promote healing. Each should be applied for about 15-20 minutes, taking a 2-hour break in-between.
– Physical Therapy: Regularly attending therapy sessions can boost neck strength and flexibility, helping with persistent neck pain. A therapist will tailor your sessions depending on your specific issue.
Most neck pains aren’t a big cause for concern. However, if you notice the pain spreading, a loss of strength, numbness in an arm or leg, a fever, or weight loss along with neck pain, make sure to visit your doctor or a physiotherapist. These could be signs of something more serious.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and help is available.
