There are many people that deal with neck pain, if not once, then many times in their life. The pain can be caused by a variety of reasons. Anything from sleeping in the wrong position which can cramp the neck muscles, to a serious car accident can trigger the constant pain in the neck and upper back, sometimes including the shoulders.

Be sure to discuss the painful condition to your doctor. Neck and jaw pain can often mean there is a more serious condition that needs to be diagnosed. For example, jaw and neck pressure and pain can often mean heart problems in some women. These pains are not necessary a sure sign of heart problems, but it is a significant sign that should be reported to a doctor immediately.

One of the most devastating injuries that often happen to the neck and the spine is during a vehicle accident. The sudden jolt and stopping of the neck and body muscles often result in a condition known as whip lash. This type of injury is very painful and may take many weeks, sometimes with therapy, to recover from.

In some accidents, the neck injuries are so severe; the patient may never recover from the spinal damage. This often leaves the patient paralyzed because of the damage to the spinal column or broken bones in the vertebrae in the neck area. Many that have severe damage may never be able to walk or talk again. Some are very aware of their surroundings but are unable to verbally communicate with others.

Arthritis is often a cause for some pain that radiates in the neck area. Those that are diagnosed with this condition often have a lot of pain in the hips and neck area. The patient's doctor can often recommend special medications to help with most of the pain.

A pain that is caused from muscle tightness is the easiest one to treat. Stress can cause the neck to tense up, causing pain in the area and sometimes severe tension headaches. This is easily treated by a prescription from the doctor for a pain reliever mixed with a muscle relaxor. Talk to your doctor about controlling the pain in head and neck because of tension and stress.

There are a few serious reasons that pain can be radiating in the neck or face. To get a thorough check up, it is recommended that you see a doctor. Some of the situations that cause the pain can be quite serious and require immediate medical attention.