Cervicalgia is the medical term for neck pain. It typically centres on the neck itself and often spreads into the upper shoulder muscles, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain. Many people also notice stiffness, reduced range of motion, and muscle spasms alongside it.
Common causes include muscle strains, muscular imbalances, poor posture, degenerative disc disease, a cervical herniated disc, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Options can include pain medication, physiotherapy, heat or cold therapy, and, in rare cases, surgery.