Neck pain, although felt in the neck, can be caused by numerous other spinal issues. Neck pain may arise due to muscular tightness in both the neck and upper back. Joint disruption in the neck creates pain, as does joint disruption in the upper back. Neck pain is a frequent cause ofcervicogenic headache orMigraine.

Reasons for neck pain can be complex. Major and severe causes of neck pain include:

• Spondylosis – degenerative arthritis and osteophytes
• Spinal stenosis – a narrowing of the spinal canal
• Spinal disc herniation – protruding or bulging discs, or if severe prolapse.
• Severe degeneration – usually as a result of past injuries or whiplash accidents.^[1][2][3][4]

The more common and lesser neck pain causes include:

• Stress – physical and emotional stresses
• Prolonged postures – many people fall asleep on sofas and chairs and wake with sore necks
• Minor injuries and falls – car accidents, sporting events and day to day minor injuries
• Referred pain – mostly from upper back problems
• Over-use – muscular strain or ligamentous sprain are two the most common causes^[5]

Non-spinal conditions:

• Cardiovascular disease
• infection
• malignancy
• rheumatologic disease

• Botulinum toxin
• Nabilone
• Tiagabine

Although the causes are numerous, most are easily rectified by either professional help or using self help advice and techniques.