Neck pain is a very common issue we treat as Chiropractors. It is estimated that 80% of people will have neck pain at some time in their life (1). There are many causes of neck pain, however the most common form of neck pain we see is mechanical, meaning it is caused from the muscles, tendons or joints. We call this neck strain, and is often times not associated with a specific injury.

Symptoms of neck pain

• Achiness or stiffness in the neck
• Headaches
• Jaw pain
• Pain referred behind the eyes, temples or scalp
• Pain between the shoulder blades
• Radiating pain into the shoulders arms and hands

Most common causes of neck pain

• Previous neck injury
• Posture induced from work, computer and cell phone use
• Whiplash from a car accident
• Sleeping in a poor position, especially stomach sleeping and improper fitting pillow 
• Muscle imbalances such as Upper Crossed Syndrome

Treatment for neck pain

• Active Release Therapy
• Manipulations
• Acupuncture or Dry Needling
• Cupping
• Neck traction or decompression
• Ice (first couple days after onset of pain)
• Heat (chronic pain)

Neck pain exercises

• Neck stretches and range of motion
• Neck strength
• Posture exercises
• Core exercises

References

http://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/turn-away-from-neck-pain