Neck pain is classified according to cause and course:

1. **Acute neck pain:** Sudden onset of discomfort, often triggered by poor posture or injuries.

2. **Chronic neck pain:** Pain lasting longer than three months, often associated with degenerative changes.

3. **Mechanical neck pain:** Caused by muscle tension, poor posture, or overloading of the cervical spine.

4. **Neuropathic neck pain:** Pain resulting from nerve irritation or damage, such as in a herniated disc.

5. **Secondary neck pain:** Symptom of other conditions such as infections, rheumatism, or tumors.

The causes of neck pain are varied and include:

• Muscular tension:
  • Prolonged sitting, especially in unfavorable positions, often leads to overstrain and hardening of the neck muscles.
• Degenerative changes:
  • Age-related wear and tear of the cervical spine, such as osteoarthritis or disc degeneration, can cause neck pain.
• Injuries:
  • Traumatic events such as whiplash or falls strain the neck muscles and structures.
• Poor posture:
  • A permanently forward-leaning head posture, for example when working on a computer or using a smartphone, strains the neck area.
• Stress and psychological strain:
  • Emotional stress often leads to tension in the neck and shoulder muscles.
• Diseases:
  • Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or infections can trigger secondary neck pain.

The symptoms of neck pain vary depending on the cause and severity of the complaints:

• Localized pain: Pain that is confined to the neck area and may worsen with movement.
• Radiating pain: Pain that radiates into the head, shoulders, or arms.
• Movement restrictions: Difficulty turning, tilting, or extending the head backward.
• Tension: Muscle hardening that is often sensitive to pressure.
• Headaches: Tension headaches originating from the neck muscles.
• Tingling or numbness: Neuropathic symptoms that may indicate nerve irritation.

The diagnosis is made through a combination of medical history, clinical examination, and imaging techniques:

Medical history:

The doctor asks about symptoms, possible triggers, and pre-existing conditions.

Clinical examination:

Checking the mobility and muscle tension in the neck area.

Tests to clarify neurological abnormalities such as numbness.

Imaging techniques:

X-ray: To detect misalignments or degenerative changes.

MRI: Detailed representation of soft tissues, intervertebral discs, and nerve structures.

CT: Precise imaging of bony changes or injuries.

Conservative Therapy

Most neck pain can be treated with conservative measures:

• Physiotherapy:
  • Strengthening and stretching exercises to improve posture and relieve muscle tension.
• Medication Therapy:
  • NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation.
• Massages:
  • Promoting blood circulation and relieving tension in the neck area.
• Ergonomic Adjustments:
  • Optimizing the workplace and sleep environment to avoid poor posture.
• Heat Applications:
  • Relaxation of muscles through heat patches or mud packs.

Surgical Therapy

Surgery is rarely required but may be necessary in severe cases:

• Disc Surgery:
  • Removal of disc tissue causing nerve irritation.
• Spinal Stabilization:
  • Fusion of unstable vertebral segments to relieve pain.

To prevent neck pain, the following measures are recommended:

1. Ergonomic work: Setting up a workplace with optimal seating and head posture.
2. Regular exercise: Strengthening the neck muscles through sports such as swimming or yoga.
3. Avoiding poor posture: Frequently changing positions when sitting or working.
4. Stress management: Relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation to reduce tension.
5. Adequate recovery: Regular breaks and healthy sleep to relieve the cervical spine.