Diagnosing neck pain can involve an array of exams and tests in order to make an accurate diagnosis. Often, acute (short term) neck pain isn’t very serious and may be caused by a minor muscle strain or sprain – but chronic ongoing neck pain is typically something more serious.
If you are experiencing neck pains, make an appointment with your care provider to diagnose your pain – especially if it is coupled with other new symptoms as well. Your doctor will help you to diagnose the cause of your pain and to develop a treatment plan to help you manage the pain.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will perform an exam to diagnose the source of your neck pain. They may evaluate your posture, physical condition, and note any movements that cause the pain. Your doctor may also note the alignment of your spine, test your muscle strength and reflexes, and evaluate whether or not the pain travels to other points in the body. To complete the diagnosis, your doctor may want you to go for further testing such as an x-ray, CT scan, or MRI.
Symptoms
Common neck pain symptoms may include:
- Burning pain;
- Headache;
- Soreness on one or both sides;
- Stiffness;
- Fatigue;
- Dizziness;
- Fever;
- Numbness in the arm or hand;
- Tingling in the arm or hand.
If any of these symptoms are persistent, it is recommended to seek medical care urgently. Additionally, if you are experiencing difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking; severe tenderness; very high fever; or pain which radiates down the arms and legs, you should seek immediate care.
Neck pain may have a number of potential sources. If you are experiencing neck pain, see your doctor for a thorough evaluation to ensure it is properly diagnosed and treated.
