Neck pains are a common complaint in people, ranging from teenagers to those of old age. Neck pains include pain occurring from the back of the head to shoulders. It can encompass pain in the upper back area and the arms.
Neck pains can be of many types. It can be sudden and extreme, it can be a burning pain all around the neck and shoulders and it can even be a mild discomfort. Neck pains are usually centered on the neck area, causing stiffness in the neck muscles. Pain often progresses to encompass the shoulders and in between them. Neck pains often cause headaches, and may cause weakness in the arms and the shoulders.
Excess time spent using a computer or sleeping in an awkward posture can cause chronic neck pains. Also, mild neck pains when paired with other health conditions can become long-lasting.
Chronic neck pains can result in fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances and headaches. Prolonged suffering from neck pain, can lead to drug dependence, depression, or even chronic pain syndrome.
Neck pains can sometimes indicate more serious problems. Shooting pains in the arms can indicate heart attacks. Similarly, numbness in the arms or hands, changed bowel habits or the inability to touch the chin to the chest can also indicate other more serious diseases. Medical help should be sought immediately in such circumstances. |