Cervical spine pain - symptoms, description and treatment
Revision
Can’t turn your head in the morning? A sharp pain in your neck preventing you from doing so? You may have a cervical spine block. A stiff neck, difficulty turning the head or even upper limb pain adversely affects work performance, limits leisure activities and brings psychological discomfort.
Find out what the causes of these problems are and what treatment options exist. How to suppress unpleasant pain in the cervical spine? Read more here.
Cervical spine pain - symptoms
- The pain may be burning or, on the contrary, resemble pressure in the affected area.
- The feeling of stiffness may spread to the shoulders and upper limbs.
- Sometimes headaches from the cervical spine are added.
- Restriction of mobility when turning or bending the head is also common.[1]
If the cervical spine pain is caused by a sudden forward movement of the head followed by a rapid backward movement (typical of car accidents even at low speed), it can add to the symptoms:
- nausea and dizziness,
- Attention deficit disorder,
- swelling and tenderness in the cervical spine.
This type of injury is referred to as whiplash. Whiplash syndrome is an injury to the cervical spine often caused by an impact from behind. It is common for him to experience pain in the cervical spine up to 6-12 hours after the accident.[2]
Only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis. Do not use this or any other article on the internet to make a diagnosis. Don’t put off seeing a doctor and address your condition early.
Cervical spine pain - Description and causes
What is cervical spine pain?
Pain in the cervical spine, professionally called cervicalgia, affects the back of the neck at the cervical vertebrae. However, it can also spread to the shoulders, upper back or upper limbs.
The intensity and duration of the pain depends on the cause of the problem and can last for days, months or years. Cervical spine pain affects adults at any age and is more common in women. [3]
Cervical spine pain and headaches can occur together. Hand pain from the cervical spine is common and limits many daily activities.
Causes of cervical spine pain
The most common causes include:
- intervertebral disc disease,
- muscle tension and cramps,
- injuries from accidents or sports,
- nerve oppression,
- poor posture,
- inflammatory and tumour diseases,
- other diseases (e.g. arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis).
In many cases, excessive stress, characterised by a combination of stiff posture and muscle tension, also contributes to cervical spine pain. [4]Although cervical spine pain may be related to some of the above diagnoses, the causes of the pain are usually not severe and can be addressed with conservative treatment. [5]
When to see a doctor
Cervical spine pain can in many cases be managed without medical attention with over-the-counter pain killers and regimens. However, if the problems last for more than a week and the pain is incompatible with normal daily activities, it is advis able to seek medical help as soon as possible.
A reason to see a doctor is also:
- pain in the cervical spine after an accident,
- weakness and numbness of the limbs,
- pain in the cervical spine and dizziness,
- impaired coordination of movement[6],[7].
Diagnostics
Diagnosis begins with an interview with a doctor. The necessary information includes the location and type of pain, its intensity and a precise description of the associated problems. The doctor needs to know how long the pain lasts, in what situations it worsens and what brings relief. Information about any chronic diseases is also important.
Then comes the physical examination.
- The doctor palpates the painful areas and assesses their sensitivity or muscle tension.
- The examination also checks the range of motion of the neck, back and upper limbs.
Imaging methods are usually not needed. They are used if the pain persists for a long time, does not respond to conservative treatment, or if a serious disease is suspected.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) shows the spine, nerves and soft tissues. It can reveal a herniated intervertebral disc, signs of infection and tumours.
- A computed tomography (CT) scan reveals degenerative changes in the spine and shows, for example, bony prominences. It is used especially when MRI is not available. [8],[9]
- An X-ray may show some changes in the cervical spine, but is not always helpful in diagnosis. In patients with so-called. whiplash syndrome, which occurs in car accidents, the X-ray will not show any findings as it is a soft tissue injury and not a vertebral injury.[10]
Did you know ?
- Two-thirds of adults experience cervical spine pain at least once in their lifetime. [11]
- Statistics show that they occur most often in Scandinavian countries, while the fewest cases are in some African countries.
- Cervical spine pain is more common in women than in men. The most at-risk group are those women who report poor sleep quality.[12]
Complications of non-treatment
If cervical spine pain is not treated early and correctly, various complications can develop.
- The pain can persist and become chronic.
- Experts report that more than 60% of people with chronic cervical spine pain suffer from anxiety and 55% from depression.[13]
- They can impair sleep quality. [14]
- Pain and stiffness can limit movement in the neck area, which can affect the ability to turn the head or bend over
Chronic pain
Depression
Poor quality sleep
Restricted movement.
We recommend not to postpone treatment of cervical spine pain
Do not delay treatment for cervical spine pain and see a specialist if you have any health problems or doubts about your health. This will prevent unnecessary health complications.
Treatment of cervical spine pain
Cervical spine pain is not usually a serious condition. Problems can be alleviated and resolved by conservative methods such as painkillers and various regimens.[15]
Surgical treatment is justified only in more serious cases, such as prolapsed intervertebral discs or nerve oppression caused by spinal disease. [16]
Alternative treatment options include massage, acupuncture or various chiropractic procedures. [17]
Medications and exercises for cervical spine pain
The doctor will advise you on how to relieve your cervical spine pain during your first visit to the surgery.
Pharmacotherapy includes drugs for pain, inflammation and increased muscle tension. Thanks to them, the pain subsides and the muscles can regenerate better.
Your doctor or physiotherapist will recommend suitable exercises for cervical spine pain. Properly chosen exercises, accompanied by stretching, will release tension and help strengthen the muscles in the neck and upper back.
Attention
Treatment for cervical spine pain can only be determined by your doctor after considering your overall health. Therefore, do not use this article as a guide to treatment, which can only be determined by a doctor.
Regimen measures or treating your cervical spine pain yourself
One of the basic steps to relieve cervical spine pain is the use of hot and cold compresses.
- Warm towel or gel pad apply to the painful area for 15 minutes. The heat will release tension and promote blood circulation. The procedure can be repeated several times a day.
- A cold compress is beneficial in the case of swelling or immediately after a strain in the cervical spine that does not require medical attention.
Stress-relieving techniques in the form of breathing exercises, meditation or elements of yoga release tension, which is a common cause of pain in the cervical spine. [18]
A soft foam neck brace can relieve pain at the beginning of the problem. However, it should not be used for more than three hours at a time and for more than 1-2 weeks. Too long use can lead to muscle wasting. [19]
How to sleep with cervical spine pain
An important precaution is the correct sleeping position. A properly chosen pillow for cervical spine pain will reduce cervical spine strain and relieve shoulder pain from the cervical spine.
- If you sleep on your back or side, use a pillow that supports your head so that your head and neck are at the same level as the rest of your body.
- The prone position is not suitable due to the rotation of the head to one side. [20]
Prevention
Cervical spine pain can be prevented by following various preventive measures in the field of healthy lifestyle and ergonomics.
The basis is the correct head position called. in the extension of the spine – The head should not be in an unnatural forward or sideways tilt. The shoulders should not bend forward. When using a mobile phone or tablet, it is advisable to hold the device in such a position that your head is not bent forward and your gaze is not directed downwards at the screen.
- Relief from cervical spine strain is also possible when working on a computer. Make sure that the monitor is correctly positioned and at the correct height. Adjust the chair, armrests and lower leg support correctly.
- When working, not just on the computer, don’t forget to take regular breaks and stretch your neck and shoulders.
Exercises against cervical spine pain, which will be shown by a physiotherapist, can be performed in home conditions and at work. The basic exercises are not complicated and their benefits are long-lasting.
More tips for preventing cervical spine pain:
Important cautions when dealing with cervical spine pain
- Cervical spine pain is often related to poor posture, muscle tension and excessive stress.
- Pain relief comes from a combination of painkillers, appropriate exercises and warm compresses. In the long term, prevention – correct posture, an active lifestyle and adherence to the principles of ergonomics – is particularly helpful.
- Treatment can be managed on an individual basis, but if the cervical spine pain is accompanied by weakness and numbness in the limbs or dizziness, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
Summary and recommendations for the management of cervical spine pain
See a doctor
Treatment for cervical spine pain is always determined by your doctor based on a general examination, an assessment of your health and an accurate diagnosis.
Causal treatment of cervical spine pain
After a general examination, your doctor will recommend treatment for the cause of your cervical spine pain. They will also advise you on possible lifestyle adjustments and the next course of action.
Relieving pain, swelling and inflammation
Symptomatic treatment focuses on the manifestations or signs (symptoms) of the disease. Such treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and support comprehensive treatment during the course of the disease.
Sources, references and literature
[1] Neck Pain. Cleveland Clinic, 9. December 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
[2] Whiplash. Healthdirect Australia, May 2022. Available at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/whiplash
[3] Neck Pain. Cleveland Clinic, 9. December 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
[4] Neck Pain. Cleveland Clinic, 9. December 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
[5] Neck Pain. Mayo Clinic, 25. August 2023. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neck-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20375581
[6] Michael A. P. Neck Pain. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Available at: https://www.aans.org/en/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Neck-Pain
[7] Neck Pain. Cleveland Clinic, 9. December 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
[8] Neck Pain. Mayo Clinic, 25. August 2023. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neck-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20375581
[9] Neck Pain. Cleveland Clinic, 9. December 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
[10] Whiplash. Healthdirect Australia, May 2022. Available at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/whiplash
[11] Elbinoune I., Amine B., Shyen S. et al. Chronic neck pain and anxiety-depression: prevalence and associated risk factors. Pan Afr Med J. 2016 May 27; 24: 89, doi: 10.11604/pamj.2016.24.89.8831. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5012832/
[12] Kazeminasab S., Nejadghaderi S. A., Amiri P. et al. Neck pain: global epidemiology, trends and risk factors. BMC Musculoskeletal Disord. 2022 Jan 3;23(1):26, doi: 10.1186/s12891-021-04957-4. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8725362/
[13] Elbinoune I., Amine B., Shyen S. et al. Chronic neck pain and anxiety-depression: prevalence and associated risk factors. Pan Afr Med J. 2016 May 27; 24: 89, doi: 10.11604/pamj.2016.24.89.8831. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5012832/
[14] Kazeminasab S., Nejadghaderi S. A., Amiri P. et al. Neck pain: global epidemiology, trends and risk factors. BMC Musculoskeletal Disord. 2022 Jan 3;23(1):26, doi: 10.1186/s12891-021-04957-4. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8725362/
[15] Michael A. P. Neck Pain. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Available at: https://www.aans.org/en/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Neck-Pain
[16] Neck Pain. Cleveland Clinic, 9. December 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
[17] Neck Pain. Mayo Clinic, 25. August 2023. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neck-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20375581
[18] Neck Pain. Cleveland Clinic, 9. December 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
[19] Neck Pain. Mayo Clinic, 25. August 2023. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neck-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20375581
[20] Neck Pain. Cleveland Clinic, 9. December 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
[21] Neck Pain. Mayo Clinic, 25. August 2023. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neck-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20375581
[22] Neck Pain. Cleveland Clinic, 9. December 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21179-neck-pain
How to control pain, swelling, inflammation and promote healing?
