Cervical pain, also known as neck pain, refers to discomfort or stiffness in the cervical spine, which is the upper portion of the spine located in the neck region. This condition can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain, affecting mobility and overall quality of life. Cervical pain can result from several factors, including:
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Muscle Strain: Overuse or injury to the muscles and ligaments in the neck, often due to poor posture, repetitive movements, or sudden twisting motions.
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Cervical Disc Herniation: Similar to the lower back, the discs between the vertebrae in the neck can herniate or bulge, pressing on nerves and causing pain.
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Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear of the cervical discs, leading to reduced cushioning between vertebrae and increased susceptibility to herniation.
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Cervical Spondylosis: Also known as neck arthritis, this condition involves the degeneration of the cervical spine joints and discs, causing pain and stiffness.
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Whiplash: A neck injury commonly caused by a sudden back-and-forth movement of the head, often due to motor vehicle accidents or sports injuries.
