When you have a stiff neck, the soreness and restricted range of motion can make routine activities difficult. Symptoms typically last from just a day or two to a couple of weeks, and may be accompanied by a headache, shoulder pain, and/or pain that radiates down your arm. Occasionally when the underlying cause is more serious, the symptoms can last for weeks, months or years. Here are some potential causes of stiff neck, and when it may be something more serious.
See When Is a Stiff Neck Serious?
Any activity that places your neck in an awkward position for an extended amount of time could cause neck muscles to become fatigued and spasm. For example, holding your phone against your shoulder while you talk, sleeping with your neck at an awkward angle, carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder, or having to look too far downward or upward to view your computer screen or a TV can all cause neck stiffness.
See Stiff Neck Remedies Based on Cause
Another cause of neck strain is known as text neck, which is neck pain and stiffness caused by spending more and more time looking down at smartphones and tablets.
See How Does Text Neck Cause Pain?
The cervical spine encompasses all of the discs, bones, joints, muscles, and nerves in your neck. Your spinal cord also runs through the center of the vertebrae (bones) in your cervical spine.
Watch: Cervical Spine Anatomy Video
Any one or combination of these parts of your cervical spine may become worn down over time or injured, causing neck stiffness, pain, and/or possible neurological problems. Some cervical spine disorders that commonly occur include:
Cervical spine disorders must be diagnosed and treated by a qualified health professional. Even if you feel your symptoms are mild, it is a good idea to seek treatment. The right exercise program can go a long way in alleviating neck pain and stiffness or preventing it from getting worse.
See Treatment for a Stiff Neck
A stiff neck caused by an infection is rare compared to the other causes above, but it is a serious medical condition. For example, meningitis can cause a stiff neck by infecting and inflaming the meninges, which are the protective membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain. If you experience fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, or other signs of an infection along with your stiff neck, seek medical attention immediately.
This website includes materials that are protected by copyright, or other proprietary rights. Transmission or reproduction of protected items beyond that allowed by fair use, as defined in the copyright laws, requires the written permission of the copyright owners.