Today in our physiotherapy for neck pain blog we will disclose neck pain; the factors causing this problem, and simple solutions to relieve pain.

The cervical spine is the most mobile segment of the spine: it is estimated that the neck is 600 times per hour.  It is composed of seven cervical vertebrae, joined together by spinal discs and supported by muscles and ligaments. The cervical spine out nerves that give sensitivity and motor to the arms. About 10% of the adult population suffers at some point in their life a neck pain, a pain that usually occurs on the back or side of the neck.

Types of Cervicalgia:

Neck pain can present acutely, usually by a muscle spasm. This is the case of torticollis, which appears almost suddenly, without initially suspected or apparent cause. Cede in a few days with physical therapy. Pain and difficulty performing some movements are the dominant symptoms, which in some cases can prevent the development of daily activities.

The chronic neck pain affects approximately 10% of the adult population. The women suffer more, possibly because more work in front of computers, perform chores that force keeping the neck flexed or develop labor activities that condition neck contorted positions. Maintaining these positions for hours causes painful muscle overload.

Another type of neck pain, produced by osteoarthritis of the cervical spine, is very common in the elderly. Its major symptoms are pain, neck and shoulder, and stiffness or limited movement. When very advanced may feel dizzy as vertebral arteries can be blocked. Also common are tingling and numbness in the hands and fingers when they are affected by nerve roots that emerge between the vertebrae of the spine.

The herniated disc intervertebral causes cervical pain radiating in young people. It begins abruptly and may be preceded by trauma or forced movements, although often no clear cause at its source. Almost always they affect the lower cervical vertebrae and are common limitation of motion and pain radiating to the arm.

The whiplash is one of the most common diseases in traffic accidents. Colliding, neck and head suffer a violent movement rocking back and forth. As a result, all kinds of traumatic cervical injury can occur. Pain and limitation of motion can last for months and may even become chronic.

The stress in chronic neck pain is admitted, although it is unknown why stress and anxiety cause cervical pain. Stressed people complain of pain in the neck and upper back, usually associated with muscle spasms.