Neck

ANATOMY

Seven neck vertebrae, the discs that separate them, the nerves that supply the neck and arms, arteries leading to the brain and a supporting system of ligaments – all of this is confined in a very small area in the neck. It’s these functional areas that allow us to turn our heads and to bend and stretch our necks. As with all other joints and systems, the spinal column is subject to normal age-related processes, but strain or overload leads to painful changes as well. In addition, psychological factors such as stress, for example, cause bad posture and muscular tension.

PAIN SYNDROMES

Common causes of neck pain are narrowing of the intervertebral foramina and damage to intervertebral discs, potentially leading to constricted nerves. Pain initially appears in the area around the cervical spine, which is tense and hard. Pain radiating downward into the shoulders and arms can cause paresthesia.

These types of pain can generally be relieved by local application of heat and a regimen of physical therapy that includes massage of the neck muscles. Muscle relaxants may also be included in treatment, as well as neck collars and/ or a neck support, which provides heat and restricts painful movements.