Neck and Shoulder Pain Causes

There are dozens of possible reasons for neck and shoulder pain, and they often occur in both places at the same time. Therefore, diagnosis can be challenging. In this article, we'll describe many of the most common causes of neck and should pain, but of course, you should consult with your doctor to get the most possible accurate diagnosis.

Gallbladder Trouble - malfunctions in the gallbladder sometimes cause pain to radiate into the shoulder area. If you're experiencing any of the other symptoms of gallbladder problems in addition to shoulder pain, see a doctor as soon as you can.

Claudication - This term refers to pain caused by a deficiency of blood to the muscles due to narrowing of the arteries or injury. It typically occurs after exercise, and could indicate a circulatory problem in the area of the pain. Such a condition might lead to a heart attack or stroke. Claudication often occurs in the legs, but it can cause pain in the neck and shoulders too.

Degenerative Disc Disease - Discs in the spinal column in the neck and back may degenerate due to natural aging or possibly an injury. This degeneration may cause tissues and nerves in the area to become inflamed. Shoulder and neck pain of this type may be accompanied by numbness or tingling sensations along the nerve paths, even down into the limbs.

Facet Arthritis - Facet joints are the connecting mechanisms that help hold the spine together. Facets joints may be subject to arthritis. When arthritis strikes the facet joints in the upper part of the back, neck and shoulder pain may result. Facet arthritis doesn't generally produce tingling or numbness.

Osteoarthritis - This is a chronic breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Cartilage wears down, causing the joints to become inflamed and painful. When osteoarthritis strikes in the neck and upper back, pain in the neck and shoulders may result. Osteoarthritis usually happens in middle age or after. It is also commonly known as "OA."

Herniated Disc - A disc in the neck or back shifts position, which cramps the nerves of the spine and causes pain, numbness, tingling and possibly even a "pins and needles" sensation.

Muscle Strains and Pulls - These usually aren't serious but can nonetheless be very troublesome and uncomfortable. Strains and pulls tend to produce an nagging ache, but can also produce a sharp pain when you move.

Spinal Stenosis - When the spinal canal narrows and compresses the spinal cord and nerves in the upper spine, neck and shoulder pain may result. This condition can be congenital, but it's more often caused by aging or osteoarthritis.

Spondylolisthesis - This occurs when one vertebra slips forward in relation to the vertebra below it. It can trigger pain numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area. Spondylolisthesis is a serious condition. Prompt, professional medical attention is needed.

Spondylolysis - This is a condition that often affects athletes in contact sports like professional football. Spondylolysis can lead to small stress fractures in the bones of the spinal column that produce pain in the neck, shoulders, and the lower back. Pain intensity increases with exercise or activity.

Whiplash - This is a non-medical term describing an injury that typically occurs in auto accidents and sports collisions. It results when the soft tissues of your neck are stretched past their limits. Whiplash typically causes swelling, tenderness, muscle spasms and pain in the neck and shoulders.