Neck Pain
Neck Pain
Most of us tend to ignore the neck pain after waking up, thinking it would simply disappear the next day. However, it is important to know the extent of your pain before it worsens and becomes challenging for a neck pain doctor to treat.
Understanding neck pain
The neck, or cervical spine, supports the head’s weight and enables a significant range of motion. It consists of seven small vertebrae, intervertebral disks that act as cushions, muscles that provide support and facilitate movement, ligaments that stabilise the structure, and nerves that run from the brain down the spinal column to the rest of the body.
This intricate structure of bones, muscles, nerves, and other soft tissues makes the neck highly susceptible to injury and pain.
Symptoms of neck pain
The symptoms of neck pain can include:
- Sharp or stabbing pain in one spot
- General soreness or tenderness in more expansive areas
- Pain that radiates down the arms to the fingers
- Difficulty in moving the head
- Headaches, often originating from the neck
- Muscle tightness and spasms
Causes of neck pain
The causes of neck pain can be traced to various factors:
- physical or emotional stress
- sleeping with improper posture
- minor accidents from rough or sudden actions
- referred pain (caused by problems in another part of the body)
- too much strain
How neck pain affects you
Neck pain can have profound effects on several aspects of your life. Its impact extends beyond physical discomfort, influencing emotional well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life.
Reduced mobility and flexibility
Neck pain can make it hard to do simple movements such as turning your head, bending, or tilting, necessary for everyday activities like driving, working at a computer, or exercising.
Impaired daily functioning
The discomfort and stiffness that come with neck pain can hinder routine actions such as lifting objects, carrying groceries, or performing household chores.
Decreased work efficiency
Neck pain can impair your ability to focus and perform effectively at work, reducing concentration and limiting your ability to engage in sustained physical or mental tasks.
Emotional and psychological effects
Constant discomfort from neck pain can cause mood changes, irritability, and frustration. Over time, it can contribute to the development of anxiety and depression.
Sleep disturbances
Neck pain may wake you up at night and prevent you from falling back asleep, leading to insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Right-side vs. Left-side Neck Pain
While neck pain on either side can often share similar causes, some conditions or triggers might be more likely to affect one side over the other due to the individual’s anatomy or lifestyle. Here’s a comparison of possible causes and distinguishing features:
Common Causes for Both Sides
- Muscle strain or tension
- Caused by poor posture, stress, or awkward sleeping positions.
- Can occur on either side depending on how the strain or tension developed.
- Nerve compression
- A herniated disc or bone spur may affect nerves on the right or left side of the cervical spine, causing localized pain.
- Arthritis (cervical spondylosis)
- Age-related degeneration can lead to stiffness and pain, potentially favouring one side depending on the affected vertebrae.
- Injuries (e.g., whiplash)
- Trauma like a road vehicle accident or sports injury can result in one-sided pain, depending on the direction of the impact.
Specific Causes for Left-Side Neck Pain
- Referred pain from the heart
- Referred pain on the left side of the neck can happen with conditions like angina or heart attack, often accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Seek treatment immediately if these symptoms occur.
- Lymph node swelling
- Infections (e.g., throat or ear infections) can cause swollen lymph nodes, more commonly felt on one side, including the left.
Specific Causes for Right-Side Neck Pain
- Gallbladder issues
- Conditions like gallstones or gallbladder inflammation may cause referred pain to the right side of the neck or shoulder.
- Postural habits
- Activities like using a mouse, carrying a bag, or sleeping predominantly on one side may lead to right-side tension or strain.
While right-side and left-side neck pain can have overlapping causes, the underlying condition may sometimes point to specific side-related issues. Proper diagnosis by a neck pain doctor can help identify the cause and guide effective treatment.
When to see a neck pain doctor in Singapore
You should consult a neck pain doctor if your neck pain:
- Is severe
- Persists for several days without relief
- Spreads down arms or legs
- Is accompanied by headache, numbness, weakness, or tingling
Diagnosing neck pain
Diagnosing neck pain involves:
- Physical examination
- Medical history review
- Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs
- Nerve tests to identify nerve damage, in some cases
Treatment for neck pain
Solutions to treating neck pain depend on the diagnosis and severity of the condition.
Physical therapy and exercises
Physical therapists can teach you correct postures, alignment, and neck-strengthening exercises, which help ease the pain and prevent its recurrence.
Medication
Pain-relieving medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants are often used to manage pain and facilitate recovery.
Surgery
Surgery may be required in cases where there is nerve root or spinal cord compression and conservative treatments have failed to relieve symptoms.
Why see a neck pain doctor?
If you have neck pain, especially one that has been going on for a long time or is accompanied by other symptoms like arm pain or numbness, it is advisable to see a neck pain doctor with specialised training in treating neck pain.
Neck pain doctors such as orthopedists and neurologists have an in-depth understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the neck and spine. This knowledge is crucial as the neck (cervical spine) is an intricate structure of bones, nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, and problems in any of these components can lead to pain. Neck pain doctors are equipped to pinpoint the specific source of the pain, whether it stems from nerve compression, muscle strain, joint issues, or other spinal problems.
They also provide various treatment options tailored to the patient’s needs, including medication management, therapy and surgery.
Neck Pain Doctors in Singapore
Proper diagnosis and treatment of neck pain are crucial steps in maintaining overall spinal health and preventing further complications, such as cervical pain. If you are struggling with persistent or severe neck pain, consider The Pain Specialist.
We are a clinic staffed by a multidisciplinary team that specialises in diagnosing and treating neck and spine pain in Singapore. Our neck pain doctors provide expert diagnosis, management, and tailored treatment plans to help you recover.
Get treatment for neck pain in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent my neck from hurting when I sleep?
Ensure your head and neck are aligned with your body. Use a small pillow under your neck. Try sleeping on your back or side instead of on your stomach.
Should I sleep without a pillow if my neck hurts?
Not necessarily. Instead, use a pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck.
Why is neck pain worse at night?
Poor posture, stress, and lack of movement during the day can cause muscles to tighten up by night.
How do I choose a neck pain doctor in Singapore?
Look for a doctor with specialised training in spine and neck conditions, board certification, and positive patient reviews. Consider their experience with both non-surgical and surgical treatments.
Are there non-invasive options for neck pain in Singapore?
Yes, most neck pain doctors recommend non-invasive options like physical therapy, ergonomic changes, and medication before considering surgical interventions.
Do I need a referral to see a neck pain doctor in Singapore?
In most cases, you can book an appointment directly with a neck pain doctor.