If you are bothered by a nagging, constant pain in the neck, then it is imperative that you know about its causes and accompanying symptoms. This is because, the treatment of the problem greatly depends on these two factors.

Neck pain is one of the many repercussions of a hectic work schedule. For most, the problem occurs occasionally. But for some people, the pain becomes constant and nagging. Treatment of this problem depends on what is causing it. Noticing the accompanying symptoms is also important as they help in identifying the underlying cause.

Why Does Your Neck Ache Constantly?

The following conditions are closely related to constant pain in the neck region.

Damaged Nerves: This can also be referred to as pinching of the nerves. This condition is characterized by damage to the signal conducting nerves, either on account of pressure or compression.

Degenerative Disc Disease: This is amongst the most common causes of constant pain in the neck. Our back consists of pad like structures, resembling discs. These discs provide cushioning to the spinal column, and thus reduce the impact of haphazard movements and light injuries.

Injury: Neck pain can also be a result of some sort of injury. A fall or blow to the neck usually causes sudden pain, but this can also develop into constant pain eventually if there is internal injury and the problem is left untreated thereafter.

Posture: Positioning the neck in the same position for a long time, improper posture or quick movements, etc., are some other major causes of neck pain. Keeping the neck in an awkward position for a long time while sitting or sleeping can be a cause for constant and irritating neck pain.

Accompanying Symptoms

Headaches: Many of those who experience perpetual neck pain also suffer from headaches at the same time. To worsen things, headaches in the back of the head are more commonly observed in such cases, which is very annoying.

Stiffness: Stiffness occurs when you keep your neck in the same position for a long time and then try to move it. You would not feel the pain till the time you move your neck. Tightness in the neck region hampers a person from doing even the simplest of tasks with ease.

Back Pain: Many people suffer from back pain along with neck pain. Sometimes, shoulder pain might also couple up with neck pain, thus worsening the situation!

Other Symptoms: Some less commonly seen symptoms are:

• Swallowing problems
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Pulsations
• Glandular swelling

Treatment
Prompt medical intervention is necessary when it comes to treating a constant pain in the neck. Most probably, pain killers and medication alike would be prescribed. However, for severe cases, cervical collar, cervical pillows (as most people complain about neck pain in the morning!), physical therapy, etc., might be prescribed. All these treatment measures help in maintaining the alignment of the neck muscles and improve neck movements. The actual method of treatment will eventually depend on the reason for the neck pain and the level of severity.

Preventive Measures

» The most effective way of preventing neck pain is to avoid keeping the neck in the same position for a long time.

» Also avoid quick movements of the neck, as this stresses and jerks the nerves, which then results in pain.

» Make sure that you are sleeping in a proper position at night, especially as far as the neck is concerned.

» Regular neck stretching exercises and massage are some other preventive measures which are also good in keeping the neck muscles strong and preventing any possibility of pain.

Neck pain once in a while is not a big deal. But if you are experiencing perpetual neck pain which does not seem to go away, then you need to consult your doctor at the earliest. Ignoring the pain might lead to a serious condition in the long run, which then might not be able to be cured completely.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.