Neck Pain: Overview
Many people experience neck and back discomfort at sometime in their lives. Problems can occur suddenly after an accident or injury, or may occur as the result of a slow, gradual process due to lack of exercise or poor posture. Incorrect posture throws the head forward and puts a tremendous amount of stress on the muscles in the back of the neck and upper shoulders. Muscles in this position maintain a constant state of contraction, resulting in injury and subsequent discomfort.
Causes & Development
Poor sleeping habits, poor work habits and tension can all contribute to this problem. While tension is not often the primary cause of neck pain, it can certainly worsen pain and make you more prone to injury. Failure to exercise opposing muscle groups can also result in neck and shoulder pain. The imbalance of muscle strength can cause
chronic or sporadic tension and tightness in these areas.
Some other specific conditions that can lead to muscle deterioration and pain include a sedentary lifestyle and general lack of muscular tone. A healthy, pain-free neck also depends on the condition of your upper back. Because the neck and upper back share the same muscles, the strength and flexibility of the shoulders and upper back muscles are important for keeping the neck balanced.
Pain is also generated when muscles go into
spasm. While such a spasm may occur as a protective reflex, it intensifies discomfort by reducing circulation and setting up an inflammatory response. Stress of any kind, physical or emotional, and toxicity may cause spasms in underexercised muscles. Lastly, pressure or "pinching" of the nerves in the spine can cause severe pain that can radiate (travel) down the arms. Significant pain requires evaluation by a doctor, and may require visiting more than one in the search for a solution.
