What is chronic neck pain?

Chronic neck pain is a condition where a person experiences pain in the neck area that lasts for a long period, typically more than a few weeks. The severity of the pain can range from mild to severe, and it may affect daily activities and quality of life. This pain can originate from any part of the neck, including muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, or nerves [2]. In some cases, the pain may radiate to the shoulders, arms, head, or jaw [2].

Common Causes of Chronic Neck Pain

There are many causes that may lead to chronic neck pain, most notably:

• Muscle strain and tension: Overusing neck muscles, such as sitting in front of a computer for long periods or sleeping in an uncomfortable position, is often a primary cause of neck pain [2].
• Injuries and accidents: Falls or accidents, including car accidents that cause neck injury (also known as "whiplash" or soft tissue injury of the neck), can cause chronic pain [2].
• Degenerative changes: With advancing age, changes in the cervical vertebrae may occur, such as wear of bones and cartilage (cervical arthritis) [1], a herniated disc [1], or spinal stenosis [1], which compresses nerves and causes pain.
• Inflammation: Inflammation of the bones or discs in the cervical spine can cause chronic pain [1].
• Tumors: In rare cases, tumors in the cervical spine may be a cause of pain [1].
• Other diseases: Some conditions such as multiple sclerosis or congenital deformities of the cervical spine can contribute to neck pain [1].

When to See a Doctor?

A doctor should be consulted if neck pain is severe and does not improve after initial treatment, or if it is accompanied by weakness in the legs, numbness, or other symptoms [1]. Medical attention should also be sought if the pain is caused by an injury or accident.

Diagnosis

To determine the cause of chronic neck pain, the doctor may perform a physical examination and ask about medical history. The doctor may also order imaging tests such as:

• X-rays: To evaluate bone structure.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI uses a strong magnetic field to create detailed images of the cervical spine and surrounding tissues [1]. This test is useful for diagnosing problems such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, disc inflammation, or tumors [1]. The scan usually takes 30 to 60 minutes [1] and may require the injection of a contrast dye to improve image clarity [1]. You must inform your doctor if you have any implanted metal devices in your body or if you suffer from kidney disease [1].
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan: This may be useful in some cases, although an MRI is often better for diagnosing many neck problems [1].

Treatment Options

Treatment for chronic neck pain depends on the underlying cause. Initial options may include:

• Rest and applying ice or heat: To help relieve pain and inflammation [2].
• Pain relievers: Such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Physical therapy: To strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
• Muscle relaxants: To help relieve spasms.
• Epidural steroid injections: In some cases, to relieve pain [2].
• Surgery: Surgery is rarely necessary [2], but it may be resorted to in specific cases such as severe nerve compression or lack of response to other treatments.

For more information on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic neck pain, you can visit Chronic Neck Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Effective Treatment Options (Arabic).

Medical references

• Cervical MRI scan
• Neck Injuries and Disorders