Common Causes of Neck Pain
Accurately identifying the source of your neck pain is key to successful treatment. Some common causes include:
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Muscle strain: Overuse, heavy lifting, or improper posture can lead to strained neck muscles.
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Nerve compression: Herniated discs or bone spurs in the cervical spine can compress nerves, causing pain that radiates to the neck and shoulders.
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Injuries: Whiplash from car accidents, falls, or sports injuries can cause damage to the muscles, ligaments, and nerves.
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Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may cause inflammation in the neck and shoulder joints, leading to pain and stiffness.