Symptoms of neck pain

Neck pain can feel different depending on the cause. It may be local to the neck or spread to the shoulders, arms or head.

Common symptoms

• Dull, aching or sharp pain in the neck
• Stiffness and difficulty turning the head
• Muscle tightness and spasms
• Pain that gets worse with certain positions, such as looking down or driving
• Tender spots in the neck and shoulder muscles
• Headache starting at the back of the head (tension-type headache)

Symptoms of nerve involvement

• Pain, tingling or numbness spreading down one arm or into the fingers
• Weakness in the arm or hand, or trouble gripping
• Shooting pain on neck movement or coughing

Less common symptoms

• Dizziness with certain neck movements
• Pain in the upper back or between the shoulder blades
• Clicking or grinding sounds, which are often harmless

See a doctor if

• Pain lasts more than 1 to 2 weeks without improvement
• Pain is severe or keeps you awake at night