Pain in the ass

Almost two thirds of people suffer from neck pain (cervicalgia). Causes include acute conditions such as muscle strains and whiplash, as well as chronic conditions such as cervical spondylosis and myofascial pain syndrome. Pinched nerves, infections, fractures, and spinal cord problems can also cause neck pain.

For effective treatment, it is necessary to understand the causes of neck pain. A comprehensive investigation will be carried out for this purpose. Based on the diagnostic results obtained, the doctor prescribes therapy. You should not self-medicate, as many cases cannot be postponed. Pain that seems harmless at first can cause serious complications.

general characteristics

The neck is a sensitive area of the body - the cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae. Muscles, ligaments and nerves ensure stability – the muscular framework. Poor posture or excessive tension leads to overuse, which reduces blood flow and causes muscle pain and myositis (inflammation).

In rare cases, neck pain can be felt locally. Most often it spreads to the shoulder, sometimes even to the arms and to the fingers. May be felt in the back of the head and cause headaches, dizziness and blurred vision. If the neck is stiff, turning and tilting the head becomes difficult and causes severe discomfort.

Neck pain varies in type and severity. There may be numbness in the hands or back of the head, hyperemia and swelling of the skin. The symptoms can be short-term or long-lasting and make everyday activities difficult.

Acute neck pain usually goes away within a few days to two weeks and is not a cause for concern. Neck pain is considered chronic if it lasts longer than three months. If, in addition to neck pain, symptoms other than those mentioned occur, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, fever, chills, nervous disorders, symptoms of paralysis, etc. , you should consult a doctor.

Types of Neck Pain

Depending on the type, neck pain can be non-specific and specific. In the first case, these are complaints for which there is no clear cause. Most often it occurs due to overloading of the trapezius muscle. Specific pain has a specific cause associated with a specific disease.

Depending on the duration there are:

• Acute cervicalgia – lasts no more than 10 days, disappears after eliminating the provoking factor.
• Chronic cervicalgia – lasts longer than three weeks, is recurring or constant.

According to the etiopathogenetic classification, vertebrogenic and non-vertebral pain in the neck area are distinguished. The first case involves a primary lesion of the osteochondral structures of the cervical vertebral region. It develops against the background of spondylogenic and discogenic cervicalgia due to compression of the spinal cord, damage to bone structures and deformation of the intervertebral discs.

Depending on the localization, the pain syndrome is differentiated in the front, back and side areas of the neck. Each of them has specific causes. Accordingly, each case requires the appointment of an individual treatment plan.

Causes of neck pain

Most neck pain is non-specific. This means that doctors cannot determine a specific medical cause for problems, such as injuries to the intervertebral discs or vertebrae. Poor posture often causes problems that lead to muscle and fascia strain.

Neck pain occurs for the following reasons:

• sitting at the computer for long periods of time;
• Overload, for example during sport or physical work;
• underdeveloped muscles;
• increased muscle tone;
• hypothermia, drafts;
• incorrect position while sleeping;
• Accident (whiplash, cervical spine injury);
• degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine;
• colds and viral infections;
• Changes in hormones during menopause;
• stress, depression and anxiety;
• Mineral deficiency.

Very rarely, neck pain is a symptom of inflammation or damage to the cervical spine. The most common cause is excessive musculofascial tension in the shoulder area. After a few days, the symptoms usually disappear on their own. If the symptoms persist for a long time, become chronic or additional symptoms occur, you should consult a specialist.

Pain in the front neck area: causes

Discomfort of varying severity is felt in the front of the neck. There are many structures here, each of which can cause pain. Without a comprehensive diagnosis, it is not easy to determine the true cause.

The causes of front neck pain are:

• Diseases of the thyroid gland (toxic goiter, Hashimoto's thyroiditis) – complaints arise due to inflammatory processes and endocrine pathologies. Increased pain is observed when bending forward and during movement. Accompanied by an increase in temperature, increased heart rate, a feeling of heat and increased sweating.
• Sialadenitis is damage to the jaw salivary glands. The pain progresses with swallowing, chewing and turning the head. Accompanied by the formation of swelling and compaction. Dry mouth and difficulty eating are characteristic. It occurs with weakness, chills and fever.
• Purulent inflammation in the pharynx - the inflammatory process spreads to the adjacent tissues, leading to the formation of a retropharyngeal abscess. The symptoms are accompanied by redness of the skin on the front of the neck, which turns light pink and feels hot. The pain is throbbing and intense, so the patient may refuse to eat. Associated with febrile fever. It is a result of an extensive paratonsillar abscess.
• Cervical plexitis – the intensity of clinical manifestations depends on the number of damaged nerve structures. Stitching pain occurs most often in the anterolateral part of the neck. There are difficulties coughing and speaking. The discomfort radiates to the ear, chest and back of the head. There is a feeling of "crawling" and paresthesia. Occurs due to injury, hypothermia or after vaccination.
• Rheumatic diseases are systemic diseases of the connective tissue (collagenoses) with damage to the skin and muscles. Dermatomyositis and scleroderma are characterized by constant pain and excruciating pain. There is swelling and thickening of the skin. The stabbing pain radiates to the front of the neck and spine.
• Lymphadenitis – the symptoms are localized in the upper neck area. Lymphatic tissue is affected. The symptoms are localized in the submandibular area, usually on one side. Symptoms progress with head tilting and speaking. The skin is hyperemic and swollen. Accompanied by inflammation of the lymph nodes, general weakness and fever.

Pain in the front of the neck can also occur during atypical angina attacks. The pain is more pronounced and is accompanied by shortness of breath. It becomes difficult to speak and difficulty swallowing.

The pain is also localized in the front area when the mucous membrane of the trachea and esophagus is inflamed. Discomfort is a result of painful cough and tracheitis. Rare causes include cervical compression syndrome and spinal lesions.

Pain in the neck: causes

Neck pain is a result of prolonged work at the computer and little physical activity. Pain arises from pathological changes in the spine.

Pain in the neck has the following causes:

• Osteochondrosis is accompanied by degenerative-dystrophic disorders of the intervertebral discs, a decrease in their strength and a decrease in height.
• Protrusions are a complication of osteochondrosis and are accompanied by a bulging of the intervertebral disc. Protrusions are caused by injuries to the vertebral artery and nerve structures.
• Intervertebral hernias occur when the protrusions have progressed. The internal contents of the intervertebral disc enter the spinal canal and compress the nerve endings.
• Spondylosis – Bony protrusions (osteophytes) appear on the edges of the vertebral bodies as the intervertebral discs become smaller, adjacent vertebrae fuse, and neck mobility is limited.

Pain in the neck is characteristic of myofascial syndrome, in which individual muscles spasm. Accompanied by acute pain when pressing on the neck, as well as during physical activity.

Among the systemic diseases, one can distinguish ankylosing spondylitis, which affects joint structures and is characterized by limited mobility. The formation of solid and permanent conglomerates is accompanied by the fusion of individual vertebrae with each other. Less commonly, pain in the neck is associated with spinal tuberculosis, Reiter's syndrome and osteomyelitis.

A more serious cause that requires emergency medical treatment is a compression fracture of the spine. Occurs due to whiplash injury to the neck.

Side neck pain: causes

Pain in the side of the neck may be pulsating, tingling, or burning. It radiates to the shoulder or ear. Accompanied by the formation of secondary torticollis. This causes the head to tilt to the affected side. Typical of arteriosclerosis and other blood vessel diseases.

The cause is also muscle spasms that occur during sudden movements, excessive stress and hypothermia. Pain on the side of the neck is observed in malignant processes in the larynx, pharynx and thyroid gland. You shouldn't leave things to chance. If primary symptoms occur, you should consult a doctor. This approach allows you to take timely treatment measures and prevent the development of complications.

Diagnosis of the causes of neck pain

The examination includes laboratory studies and instrumental diagnostics aimed at visualizing the affected areas and detecting signs of pathology:

• Ultrasound of the submandibular salivary glands and thyroid – is prescribed for rapid visualization of the neck structures and identification of diseases of internal organs that cause neck pain. Duplex scans are performed to scan large vessels and determine the condition of blood flow.
• X-ray examination or CT (computed tomography) – determines the displacement of the vertebrae and bone deformations. Allows you to determine the extent of vertebral diseases and the nature of the disorders.
• Functional diagnostics – Damage to the muscles is determined using an MRI of the cervical spine.

A blood test is carried out to confirm inflammatory processes. In addition, the level of thyroid hormones is determined. If there are general symptoms of infection, a bacteriological culture or a throat swab is prescribed. In addition, serological tests (PCR, ELISA, RIF) are required.

Neck pain treatment

For neck pain, conservative rather than surgical treatment methods are prescribed. Drug treatment is aimed at relieving pain, eliminating the cause of discomfort and restoring the body. Therapy is prescribed depending on the stage of pathology, the cause of the disorders that arise, the age and body characteristics of the patient.

In order to increase the effectiveness of the medication used, physiotherapy and physiotherapy are prescribed. Manual techniques are effective. In some cases, surgery is performed if the expected result is not achieved.

Help before diagnosis

Tilts and turns of the head as well as a light massage help relieve acute neck pain. The tension gradually decreases, which contributes to the improvement of the condition. There are muscle knots or trigger points in the neck muscles that cause discomfort when irritated. Gentle rubbing and kneading helps relieve pain.

You can use cool or warm compresses in the first 24 hours after symptoms appear. Heating the neck with a heating pad is permissible only from the side or back.

Tablets and ointments for neck pain

It is recommended to take any painkiller that temporarily improves the condition. An NSAID is prescribed, which not only relieves pain but also has an anti-inflammatory effect.

For local effects, you can apply a warming patch or ointment. They relieve hyperemia and swelling, thereby reducing pressure on nerve endings and reducing spasms.

Exercises for neck pain

If the pain is moderately severe, you can do light gymnastic exercises on your own. It is important to monitor your well-being so as not to cause harm.

Gentle and non-abrupt movements help reduce discomfort:

• Lie on your back and press your head against a flat but not soft pillow to a count of 5 (from 5 to 7);
• Lie on your side, raise your head and hold it for a count of 5 (at least 5 approaches);
• Lie on your stomach, fold your arms behind the back of your head, raise your head and provide light resistance (from 4 to 6 approaches).

If the pain is acute and severe, any sporting activity is contraindicated. You should stop exercising if you feel dizzy or weak. In this case, the Shants collar will help relieve pain. Immobilization should not be prolonged. Otherwise, the muscle corset will be weakened and the situation will worsen.

What not to do if you have neck pain

If complaints often occur in the cervical spine area, the following is unacceptable:

1. Maintain a forced posture for a long time, with the neck in a tense state.
2. Lift heavy objects and perform physical labor.
3. Be exposed to severe stress, which causes vascular spasms, which negatively affect blood circulation.
4. Frequent drinking of alcohol and smoking, which contributes to persistent narrowing of vascular structures.
5. Do not dress appropriately for the weather, stay in drafts, and do not wear a hat or scarf in the cold season.

It is unacceptable to sleep on a soft mattress and a high pillow. It is necessary to avoid sudden head turns, which can lead to sudden pinching of the nerve.

If you need to see a doctor urgently

The help of a specialist is necessary if the pain does not subside after 5-7 days or increases. If you have severe pain that prevents you from falling asleep and does not go away when you change your posture, you should see a doctor.

The absolute indication for a visit to the clinic is a deterioration in general well-being - the appearance of nausea, dizziness and weakness. Numbness in the hands also requires professional help.

Medication

Typically, combination therapy is prescribed, which includes:

• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – relieve discomfort and swelling, eliminate remaining inflammation;
• Analgesics – relieve pain and improve the general condition, but do not eliminate the cause;
• Corticosteroids – reduce inflammation, affect muscle excitability;
• Muscle relaxants – relieve painful muscle tension, improve motor activity.

If pain is severe, injections into trigger points are indicated. Antioxidants, anticonvulsants and antidepressants are also prescribed.

Chondroprotectors stop inflammation and degenerative processes in the spine. Vitamins improve blood circulation and have a healing effect.

surgery

The operation aims to restore the functionality of the cervical spine. The most commonly used decompression tactics are indicated for compression syndrome, when the nerve roots are compressed by a pathological defect. Microsurgical discectomy, laminectomy and nucleoplasty are used. Stabilization techniques are also popular for pain in the cervical spine - arthrodesis, vertebroplasty, implantation of a bone tissue fragment and installation of solid metal structures.

The surgical intervention is aimed at eliminating the cause (hernia, tumor, osteophytes, etc. ). The aim of the operation is to restore the motor support functions of the spine. After surgical treatment, long-term rehabilitation is required, which is necessary to prevent various complications, which are not uncommon. The result of the operation depends on the timeliness of the procedure and compliance with medical recommendations for recovery.

Manual therapy

The minimally invasive technique uses manual techniques. The effectiveness is aimed at joints, muscles, ligament-joint and bone structures. Manual therapy improves the condition of spinal hernias, poor posture, protrusions and osteochondrosis. Improves the condition of neck pain.

Manual therapy restores mobility, repairs damaged tissue and eliminates dizziness. The pain gradually subsides and the back and neck muscles relax. The patient's well-being improves.

physical therapy

Physiotherapeutic treatment is aimed at the influence of magnetic fields, electric current, temperature and mechanical influences on the body. The procedures are painless and do not cause side effects or complications if you follow the doctor's recommendations. Physiotherapy is indicated for the treatment of chronic diseases and is prescribed preventively. To strengthen the immune system, treat chronic inflammation and improve posture. The procedures increase the effectiveness of medications.

Physiotherapy treatment for neck pain includes:

• SMT (sinusoidally modulated currents) – stimulate the production of biologically active substances in the body. Electrophoresis relieves pain, restores mobility and thus activates your own defenses. The complex of procedures allows you to achieve a pronounced and long-lasting analgesic effect, complemented by anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects.
• MLT (magnetic field and laser beams) – provides a pronounced therapeutic effect. The procedure is aimed at activating certain enzymes, changing capillary osmotic pressure and improving blood circulation.
• UVT (shock wave therapy) – with the help of low-frequency sound waves, processes are initiated that improve microcirculation. Inflammation is reduced, swelling is eliminated and pain is relieved.

To achieve a pronounced effect, it is recommended to undergo physiotherapy treatment. Improvements are usually noticed after the first session. Physiotherapy is contraindicated in acute inflammation. Prescribed when the process is chronic and in the recovery period.

Movement therapy

Therapeutic physical culture is aimed at strengthening the muscles of the neck, relieving tension and restoring blood circulation. An individual approach is chosen for each patient, taking into account their abilities and needs.

The physiotherapy program is drawn up by a doctor taking into account medical history and contraindications. If necessary, adjustments are made taking into account the dynamics of the patient's condition, which avoids the development of complications and allows you to achieve the expected result.

When starting a series of exercises, it is important to consider the following:

• The main task is to tone the muscles. They need to be made elastic.
• It is important to perform movements smoothly, as sharp and fast movements only aggravate the condition.
• The exercises should be performed on a flat surface using a special mat and rollers.

It is important to pay attention to regularity and frequency. If discomfort occurs, you need to reduce the load.

Exercises to restore the plasticity of muscle structures and improve the mobility of the vertebrae:

• Exercise #1 – Turn your head all the way to the right, then to the left. Provides mobility of the cervical vertebrae.
• Exercise #2 – Lower your head and tuck your chin into your chest so you can feel the chest cavity. This exercise improves neck mobility and relieves muscle stiffness.
• Exercise #3 – Move your head back and pull your chin back. Exercise improves the posture of the cervical spine.

In addition, a series of exercises have been developed to strengthen weak muscles, create a muscle corset and relieve pain. While seated, place your hand on your forehead and tilt your head forward to create resistance. You can also perform similar tilts to the right and left.

Which doctor should I contact if I have neck pain?

If you experience any symptoms, you should consult a therapist. Based on the symptoms, a family doctor will order an examination and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist - a neurologist, endocrinologist or oncologist.

Conclusions

Between 30 and 70% of the population suffers from neck pain. This problem reduces the quality of life and often leads to disability. With timely medical advice and treatment, the prognosis is usually favorable.

The treatment of neck pain includes physical, behavioral and pharmacological methods. The most effective are therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, the correct organization of the workplace and compliance with ergonomic rules. NSAIDs, injections and antidepressants are prescribed. In advanced cases and when conservative treatment is ineffective, surgery is performed.