Neck problems
Neck problems
This information may help if you are dealing with a new neck problem.
If you have already been diagnosed with a neck condition, or you have had neck surgery recently, please follow the advice given by your own doctor or healthcare professional, since your situation may need special care.
If your neck pain started after a fall from height or a direct blow to your head or neck, please read the separate guidance on what to do after this kind of neck injury, as it needs to be checked differently.
Neck problems can cause a number of different symptoms, including:
- pain and stiffness, which can sometimes spread down into your arm
- tightness or spasms in the muscles
- pins and needles, or numbness, in your arm or hand
- clicking or grinding sounds in the neck; this is quite common, and although it can sound worrying, it is usually not a sign of anything serious
Neck problems can also sometimes cause pain that spreads into your shoulders, arms and upper back, and they can bring on headaches as well.
In most cases, whether it is a new neck problem or a flare up of a long standing one, it should start to settle within about 8 weeks, without you needing to see a healthcare professional.
Common Symptoms
Symptom information is not available for this condition yet.
⚠️ This symptom list is for educational purposes. Having these symptoms does not mean you have this condition. See a doctor for proper diagnosis.
Medicines Commonly Used
⚠️ These medicines are commonly used for confirmed diagnoses of this condition. This is NOT a recommendation or prescription. Treatment must be determined by your doctor.
No medicines have been linked to this condition yet.
When to See a Doctor
When to seek help
Speak to your GP urgently if:
- you feel clumsiness in your hands, numbness, pins and needles, or weakness that is worsening, in one or both arms
- you have problems with your balance or walking since your neck pain started
- your neck pain is associated with a severe headache
Phone 111 if your GP practice is closed
Contact your GP if:
- you have neck pain and you also feel generally unwell
- you have neck pain that starts when you are ill with other problems – like rheumatoid arthritis or cancer
- you develop blurred vision, ringing in your ears or dizziness
Causes
What causes neck problems?
Most of the time, neck pain does not come from a serious disease or lasting damage. In fact, many people notice it starting for no clear reason at all.
Some common causes include:
- an injury, such as a fall or a car accident, including whiplash
- a direct blow or trauma to the neck
- muscle strain or tension
- staying in one position for too long, like sitting at a desk at work
- repeating the same strained movements at work, in sports, or in hobbies
- anxiety and depression
- age-related changes such as cervical spondylosis
What can I do to help my neck problem?
There is a lot you can do to help yourself feel better. Try the following:
- move your neck gently for short periods every hour
- avoid staying in one position for too long without moving
- keep up your normal daily activities and hobbies, even if you need to go slower than usual
- use a supportive pillow when you sleep
- stay generally active, even if you start out moving slowly
Using a neck collar is not recommended unless your doctor has specifically prescribed one for you.
Keeping your neck moving is a key part of your treatment and recovery. It may feel difficult at first, so just do what you can manage and build up gradually over time.
Exercises to help with neck problems
Treatment
Pain treatments
Pain medication can help you move more comfortably, which can help your recovery.
More about taking painkillers
Treating with ice or heat
Using heat or ice on your neck can help reduce symptoms. Use a barrier, like a towel, to protect your skin from a burn. Never place ice or heat directly on your skin. Leave a few hours between treatments.
How to avoid hot water bottle burns and scalds – Care of Burns in Scotland
You should stop treating the area with ice or heat if you notice an increase in redness, discolouration or blistering of the skin.
Read more about burns and scalds
Work
It’s recommended you stay at or return to work as quickly as possible during your recovery. This is important and usually the best way to get better. You don’t need to be pain and symptom-free to return to work.
You should speak to your employer to see if you need any workplace adjustments.
Help and support
Following this advice, you should see gradual improvements over time.
You should see the biggest change in your symptoms within the first couple of weeks. Most problems should have improved within 8 weeks.
If your neck problem hasn’t improved within 8 weeks of following this advice, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional about your symptoms.
Find out how to access MSK services in your area.
When dealing with any health condition it’s important to also look after your mental wellbeing as this can impact your recovery.
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