Overview
Understanding neck pain
The neck supports the head while allowing a wide range of movement. Strain, injury, age-related changes, and irritation of a nerve can all produce pain, stiffness, or limited motion.
Where the symptoms travel matters. Pain that stays in the neck may follow a different pathway than pain with arm tingling, numbness, or weakness.
Useful context
What people may notice
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Pain linked to posture, work position, sleep, or movement
- Pain extending into the shoulder or arm
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in an arm or hand
At the clinic
How evaluation works
- 01
Map the location of pain and any symptoms that travel into the shoulder, arm, or hand.
- 02
Check neck movement, strength, sensation, and reflexes when indicated.
- 03
Review the timing of any injury and prior treatment or imaging.
- 04
Use imaging or nerve testing only when the history and examination suggest it may help clarify the source.
References
Sources and further reading
These references provide general education. They do not replace advice from a clinician who knows your health history.
Questions and answers
Neck pain FAQs
What type of doctor treats chronic neck pain?
An interventional pain management physician specializes in diagnosing and treating chronic neck pain. They can perform cervical epidural steroid injections, medial branch blocks, and radiofrequency ablation to address the underlying source of pain.
What is radiofrequency ablation for neck pain?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses heat energy delivered through a needle to interrupt pain signals from selected cervical facet joints. It may be discussed after a diagnostic medial branch block.