Neck Pain: Common Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Spine Specialist

• Neck pain is a leading cause of global disability and affects up to half of the adult population each year
• The majority of neck pain results from mechanical strain to the structure of the neck, frequently from gradual breakdown over time
• Neck pain is more common in women and older adults (1)
• First line treatment for many kinds of back pain focuses on physical therapy, however surgical interventions may be warranted for certain conditions
• You may benefit from the care of a Spine Surgeon if you have neck pain that is unresponsive to other treatments or if you have concerning symptoms like loss of bowel/bladder control (incontinence), weakness in your arms, or severe pain at night

Neck pain is one of the top five causes of disability globally and affects 15-50% of the adult population each year (2, 3). Patients schedule over 16.4 million healthcare visits a year to learn about what may be causing their neck pain and how they can better manage their symptoms (2). This article provides a basic overview of some common causes of neck pain, the symptoms frequently associated with neck pain, and recommendations on when to discuss your pain with an experienced Spine Surgeon.

Neck pain may be associated with other symptoms, some of which may be useful for your doctor to help determine the underlying cause. Patients with neck pain may also report:

• Pain radiating to the chest, back, shoulders, or head
• Numbness or "pins and needles" sensations in one or both arms
• Neck stiffness and decreased range of motion

Severe or concerning symptoms that suggest you should seek immediate care include:

• Loss of strength/movement in one or both arms
• Loss of bladder/bowel control
• Loss of hand dexterity
• Worsening changes in arm/hand sensation
• Severe pain at night

Patients with histories of cancer or risks for potential infection (fever, night sweats, decreased immune function) should also seek the guidance of a licensed physician.