The neck is made up of muscles, nerves, vertebrae and protective, cushioning layers. These structures work together to allow the neck to move freely up and down and from side to side. Stick neck pain is often described as soreness in the neck that limits normal range of motion. Illnesses that cause stiff neck pain can vary in severity. Some are common and others are medical emergencies that require immediate treatment.
Neck Sprain
Seven vertebrae make up the spinal column in the neck. Between each of these vertebrae is a structure called a ligament, which connects the vertebrae and allows for movement. When physical trauma causes an abnormal or hard motion of the neck, a ligament can tear. This condition is called a neck sprain. Common symptoms of a neck sprain are pain that worsens with movement, stiffness that is accompanied by a limited range of motion and headache. If the nerves are affected as well, someone with a neck sprain may also experience numbness or tingling in the arms or hands, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Although a neck sprain can cause a significant amount of pain and stiffness in the neck, it is not a serious condition and usually heals within four to six weeks with rest and immobilization of the neck with a soft collar.
Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis is defined by MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, as the gradual degeneration of the spine. Cervical spondylosis most often develops as a result of increasing age, but can also occur because of past neck injuries, arthritis or prior surgery. Symptoms of cervical spondylosis include neck pain and stiffness, numbness and tingling in the shoulders and arms, weakness of the arms and constant headaches. Symptoms of cervical spondylosis can usually be successfully controlled with a combination of over-the-counter pain medications, muscle relaxants and physical therapy.
Meningitis
The meninges are membranes that surround the brain and the spinal cord and provide protection to the central nervous system. Meningitis is an infection that results in the inflammation of the meninges. When the meninges are inflamed, it causes fever, intense headache, stiff neck, nausea, difficulty concentrating, sleepiness, and increased light sensitivity, according to MayoClinic.com. Meningitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi. Viral meningitis is the most common type and usually clears up on its own with bed rest, increased fluids and pain relievers. Bacterial meningitis is less common, but considered a life-threatening infection that requires immediate hospitalization. During hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications will be administered.
