Most episodes of neck pain are due to a muscle strain or other soft tissue sprain (ligaments, tendons). This type of injury can also be caused by a sudden force (whiplash). These types of neck pain often improve with time and with non-surgical care such as medications and chiropractic manipulation. But if the neck pain continues or worsens or is accompanied by arm pain or numbness, there is often a specific condition that requires treatment. Cervical degenerative disc disease, herniated disc, cervical stenosis, and cervical arthritis can all lead to neck pain. Each of these conditions has unique symptoms and treatment approaches.
