The Neck: Some Background Information:

The neck performs three major functions: It provides stability and a base of support for the head. It protects the spinal cord and nerve roots and it permits you to move your head in all directions. Of the many areas of the spine, the neck (also known as the cervical part of the spine) is the most mobile. It is also quite fragile, since the head sits on top of it and imposes a heavy load. The cervical neck is often vulnerable to strain or injury as might happen after a car accident or sports injury 
 

Cervical Spine Pain: A True “Pain in the Neck”

Neck pain is often accompanied by spasm, stiffness, numbness, tingling and reduced range of motion. These symptoms can arise from many different sources and therefore a thorough medical assessment is critical before a customized, individualized treatment plan can be set up. 
 

Common Causes of Neck Pain 

Muscular/Soft Tissue Causes (whiplash) 

Structural Causes:

• Herniated  Disc
• Cervical Spondylosis
• Cervical Stenosis  

Organic Causes: 

• Infection  (examples: Meningitis, Osteomyelitis, Discitis, Others)    
• Rhematological conditions: (examples: Ankylosing Spondylitis, DJD,     Polymyalgia, Psoriatic arthritis and others) 
• Endocrinologic & Metabolic conditions: (examples: Osteoporosis, Pagets Disease and others)

Neck Pain Symptoms: 

Signs and symptoms sometimes observed in people with neck pain include spasm, deep aches (neck, shoulder, arm), shooting traveling pains, and headaches (HYPERLINK TO HEADACHE PAIN) 

NECK PAIN: THE IMPORTANCE OF A MEDICAL EVALUATION 

All neck and spine pain should be thoroughly evaluated by a physician before a treatment plan is initiated. In some cases an x-ray, MRI or other test may be advisable. If numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, abnormal reflexes or radiating pain is present, than an electrodiagnostic test (EMG/NCV) may be needed 

Other books on Neck and Back pain authored by Dr. Young