Neck pain can come from a number of sources. The most common ones include:
• Muscle strains or tears
• Tears or strains to the ligaments
• Disc-related issues – These issues can include herniated or bulging discs
• Whiplash – This is the most common injury after a motor vehicle accident
• Myofascial syndrome
• Spondylosis
• Arthritis
• Facet joint syndrome
• Spinal stenosis affecting the cervical vertebrae
• DISH syndrome
• Radiculopathy in the cervical nerve root
When neck pain is associated with fever, a recent infection, or unexplained weight loss, it is important to seek medical care immediately, as these can be signs of more serious conditions.
There are a number of risk factors that make neck pain more likely. These include being over 50 years of age, engaging in heavy physical work, or contact sports, and a history of injury or arthritis. Poor posture and a sedentary lifestyle also increase the risk of neck pain.