What Are the Causes of Neck and Shoulder Pain?

It’s not always easy getting around in the modern world. From sitting hunched over our phones in movies, to spending hours in uncomfortable positions at work, our neck and shoulder muscles have to work harder and harder.

Unfortunately, that means that they’re more likely to develop problems over time. While some individuals always experience a nagging ‘tickle’ in their neck or shoulder area, many people only realize their pain when they need to make an important phone call or face a presentation.

So what are the causes of neck and shoulder pain, and what can you do about it? That’s what we aim to answer. Keep reading to find out more!

Muscular Strain

Muscular strain is one of the most common causes of chronic shoulder pain. This type of pain occurs when the muscles in the neck and shoulder are overworked or injured.

Common causes of muscular strain include poor posture, carrying heavy bags, and repetitive motions such as typing or playing musical instruments.

Poor Posture

Poor posture is also one of the most common causes of shoulder pain. Sitting in front of a computer for long periods of time or slouching can put extra stress on the muscles in the neck and shoulders, leading to pain and stiffness.

Maintaining good posture can help to prevent and alleviate neck and shoulder pain.

Past and Recent Injuries

Injuries such as whiplash or a sprained neck can cause neck and shoulder pain. These types of neck injuries usually occur as a result of a car accident, sports injury, or fall.

Injuries can cause inflammation, swelling, and pain in the affected area.

Arthritis

Arthritis is another common cause of neck and shoulder pain. This condition occurs when the joints in the neck and shoulders become inflamed, leading to pain and stiffness.

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common types of arthritis that can affect the neck and shoulders.

Pinched Nerves

Pinched nerves can also cause neck and shoulder pain. This occurs when a nerve in the neck or shoulder is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the affected area.

Pinched nerves can be caused by a herniated disc, bone spurs, or other conditions that put pressure on the nerves in the neck and shoulders.

Cervical Herniated Disc

Cervical herniated discs occur when a section of cushioning between the vertebrae of the neck becomes weakened and starts to bulge. This can cause pressure on the spinal cord, nerves, ligaments, and surrounding muscles, which leads to inflammation and pain in the neck and shoulders.

A herniated disc can also cause generalized pain, weakness, and numbness in the arms and hands due to the pressure placed on the spinal cord. It is important to get cervical herniated disc treatment if you believe you are experiencing neck and shoulder pain as a result of a herniated disc.

Identifying the Source of Neck and Shoulder Pain

Neck and shoulder pain can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from poor posture to muscle strain or injury. To help relieve pain and regain mobility, it is important to identify the underlying cause and consult with your doctor or physical therapist to create an individualized treatment plan.

By paying attention to your body and taking effective steps, you can keep neck and shoulder pain from managing your life.

Keep scrolling to discover more resources on this blog.