Neck Pain

The cervical region of the spine, known as the cervical spine, is a frequent source of neck pain. This crucial area consists of 33 vertebrae divided into five distinct regions, with the cervical region playing a pivotal role. Understanding and addressing issues within this segment of the spinal column can lead to significant relief. Here are some prevalent conditions associated with cervical spine pain:

Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy occurs when one or more nerve roots in the cervical spine become irritated or compressed. The result? Pain, numbness, or weakness in the shoulders, arms, and hands, all due to disruptions in nerve pathways.

Discogenic Neck Pain

Discogenic neck pain is caused by the degeneration of discs in the cervical spine, often due to degenerative disc disease or a herniated disc. Not all degenerated discs result in pain, but when a disc injury fails to heal properly, it can become highly sensitive.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease (DDD) of the cervical spine, commonly known as neck DDD, occurs when the intervertebral discs in the neck experience wear and tear or arthritic changes. This condition affects individuals regardless of sex and typically develops with age. While some people may remain symptom-free, others can endure significant pain and spinal issues.

Cervical Herniated Disc

Cervical Herniated Disc pain can manifest as sharp, burning, dull, or aching sensations and may be either difficult to pinpoint or easy to locate. It can occur in the neck, shoulder, arm, forearm, and fingers. Additionally, pain may radiate down the arm into the hand. Activities such as bending or turning the neck, coughing, sneezing, or assuming certain positions can exacerbate the pain.

Cervical Facet Arthropathy

Cervical facet arthropathy is a condition characterized by pain in the small facet joints that link the vertebrae in the cervical (upper) spine. This pain arises when these joints become irritated or inflamed, often due to arthritis, joint compression, or injury. Additional contributing factors include poor posture and repetitive stress injuries from lifting heavy loads or performing frequent overhead motions.

Cervicogenic Headache (CGH)

Cervicogenic headaches arise when pain from a specific source in the neck radiates to the head. Typically, this pain manifests as a steady ache or dull sensation, though its intensity can sometimes increase. CGH symptoms are usually confined to one side, affecting the neck, head, and/or face.

Osteoarthritis of the Spine

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent joint disease impacting over 30 million people in the United States. It arises from the degeneration of hyaline cartilage in fluid-containing joints, affecting the entire joint complex, including the surrounding bone and synovial membrane. While the hands, hips, and knees are most commonly afflicted, any joint or bone, including the spine, can be affected.

Cervical Stenosis

Cervical spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces in the cervical spine narrow, compressing the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain and other issues. This narrowing can happen within the spinal canal, between vertebrae, or where nerves branch out, leading to pain, tingling, or numbness in the legs, arms, or torso.

Cervical Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis arises when a vertebra slips out of place, potentially compressing nerves and distorting the spine’s shape, leading to pain and functional issues. It is most common in the lumbar spine, but can also occur in the cervical spine.

Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis, often referred to as neck arthritis, is a broad term describing the wear and tear that impacts the cervical spine. If you suffer from cervical spondylosis, you may experience neck pain, discomfort, or stiffness.

Whiplash

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden, forceful back-and-forth motion of the neck. This can damage the vertebrae, ligaments, and muscles in the cervical spine.