Symptom

Neck and shoulder symptoms

Neck and shoulder symptoms are very common, especially in people who sit a lot and work at a computer. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, headaches, or pain radiating into the arm.

The most common causes are prolonged sitting, poor workplace ergonomics, muscle tightness, osteoarthritis of the cervical spine, or disc problems. Stress and psychological strain also often show up in the neck.

Physiotherapy, ergonomic adjustments, muscle strengthening exercises and, if needed, manual therapy are effective treatment methods. If symptoms persist, a doctor’s assessment is needed to rule out possible structural causes.

Frequently asked questions

How can you improve neck ergonomics in the office?

Adjust your computer screen to eye level, use an ergonomic chair with a backrest that supports your lower back, keep the keyboard and mouse close to your body, and keep your elbows at about a 90-degree angle. Regular breaks (5 minutes every hour) and stretch breaks are just as important as ergonomic equipment.

Can neck pain cause headaches?

Yes. Cervicogenic headache occurs when the muscles of the neck and shoulder area or structures in the cervical spine irritate nerves that radiate to the back of the head and the temples. The pain often starts in the neck and radiates to the top of the head or the temples. Physiotherapy and neck muscle exercises are effective treatments.

When does neck pain require a doctor’s assessment?

Seek medical care if neck pain is accompanied by numbness or weakness in the arms, if the pain is severe and sudden, or if it started after an injury. A patient with fever and a stiff neck also needs immediate assessment, as fever with neck stiffness may indicate meningitis.