There are numerous causes of spinal neck pain. According to FamilyDoctor.org, neck pain can be caused by traumatic injury, repetitive stress or by certain medical conditions, including some that may be life-threatening. Spinal neck pain is pain that originates in any of the structures that compose the cervical spine, such as the vertebrae, spinal discs, ligaments and intersegmental spinal muscles. Spinal neck pain can range in severity from mild to severe.
Disc Herniation
Cervical disc herniations can cause spinal neck pain. According to the Spine Health website, cervical disc herniations--the protrusion of part of the disc into the spinal canal, or intervertebral foramen--can cause significant neck and arm pain, along with numbness, tingling or weakness in one of the upper extremities. Cervical disc herniations are most common in people aged 30 to 50. Although a cervical herniated disc can manifest following neck trauma, it often arises spontaneously. Cervical disc herniation signs and symptoms--especially pain patterns and neurological deficits--vary based on which disc level is affected. The two most common discs to be affected are the discs between the fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae and sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae. Most people with cervical disc herniations respond well to conservative care methods. The Spine Health website states that arm pain associated with a cervical disc herniation is usually caused by nerve root impingement. Nerve roots are offshoots of the spinal cord.
Neck Cancer
Neck cancer or malignant spinal tumors can cause neck pain. The Cleveland Clinic states that malignant tumors of the spinal column, including the cervical spine, are divided into two categories: rare primary tumors that originate in the vertebrae, and secondary or metastatic tumors that spread from other areas of the body. Examples of primary tumors include osteosarcomas, chordomas and giant cell sarcomas. Secondary tumors of the spinal column are caused by cancer cells that spread from a person's lung, breasts, prostate or colon, either through the bloodstream or by direct extension. According to the Cleveland Clinic, neck cancer-related signs and symptoms largely depend on the location of the tumor and the nerves they affect. Common symptoms associated with neck cancer, however, include the following: neck and arm pain, arm weakness, clumsiness and rapid, unexplained weight loss.
Facet Syndrome
Facet syndrome can cause spinal neck pain. According to the Dynamic Chiropractic website, facet syndrome is a spinal condition that involves irritation of one or more facet or zygapophyseal joints at the back of the vertebrae. A person with cervical facet syndrome may complain of a sudden onset of neck pain with or without pain that radiates into one of the upper extremities. The Dynamic Chiropractic website states that facet syndrome-related pain usually increases with neck movement, especially with extension or backward bending of the neck, and decreases with rest. Facet syndrome-related pain will not be made worse with coughing or sneezing, unlike herniated disc-related neck pain. There are three principle types of facet syndrome, including traumatic, pathologic and postural facet syndrome. According to the Dynamic Chiropractic website, most people with uncomplicated facet syndrome will benefit from conservative care methods, including spinal manipulation and mobilization.
