What is Neck Pain?
Neck pain can have a variety of causes. Pain can come from something as minor as sleeping in an odd position or from something as serious as illness or injury. Neck pain can originate from any of the structures in the neck, which include muscles, nerves, spinal vertebrae and the cushioning discs between the vertebrae. Neck pain can also originate in regions near the neck, such as the shoulders, jaw, head or upper arms.
Most often, neck pain is the result of muscle strain or tension from everyday use. If this is the case, pain may only affect one side of your neck or may cause it to be difficult to turn your head from side to side. If neck pain involves nerves, however, you might experience numbness, tingling or weakness in your neck, arms, hands or other nearby regions. Severe muscle spasms or a herniated disc putting pressure on a nerve can cause nerve-related neck pain.
Neck pain can be acute or chronic. Acute pain lasts no longer than four to six weeks, while chronic pain is persistent and long-term. At times, people with chronic neck pain can also have episodes of acute pain.
Ways to prevent neck pain:
Most neck pain is caused by muscle strain and tension brought on by poor posture. Regularly checking and correcting your posture throughout the day can stave off minor neck pain. Try to keep your head centered over your spine so that gravity works with your neck instead of against it. Follow these additional guidelines to maintain proper posture and avoid neck strain:
- If you are driving long distances or you work long hours at your computer, take frequent breaks. Try to keep your head centered over your spine.
- Adjust your desk, chair and computer monitor so that your work is at eye level. Sit up straight, with your knees slightly lower than your hips.
- If you work at a desk or maintain a sedentary position for long periods of time, be sure to stretch frequently. Roll your shoulders, gently stretch your neck muscles and stretch standing up several times throughout the day.
- When you're having lengthy phone conversations, don't talk with the phone tucked between your ear and shoulder. Instead, use a hands-free headset.
- Don't clench or grind your teeth.
- Avoid neck injuries by always wearing your seat belt and a helmet when biking.
- Don't sleep on your stomach, as this position puts stress on your neck. Use a pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck.
Referral and Location Information
If you have neck or back pain-or experience any signs of a spine disorder or injury - talk to your doctor and ask for a referral to Mission Spine Center.
Mission Spine services are available in two locations in Western North Carolina:
Mission Spine Center at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC (Maps & Directions)
- National leader in spine procedures
- Blue Distinction Center® designation by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC
Mission Spine Center at Angel Medical Center (Website)
- Board-certified surgeons from Carolina Spine & Neurosurgery Center
- Conveniently located in Franklin, NC
