Neck pain can be caused by a number of problems. Irritation of joints, muscles or along nerve pathways which can all cause pain in the shoulder, head, arm, and/or hand. Neck pain can range from minor and ignorable to severe and the worst pain or discomfort someone has experienced.
But how do you know if the symptoms are caused by nerves? Here are a few things to look for that can indicate there might be nerves involved.
Local vs. Radiating Pain
The location or movement of the pain can also be a distinguishing factor between muscle pain or an underlying nerve condition.
Muscle or joint pain is mostly felt on the site of the problematic soft tissues. Occasionally, the pain may be referred down to the top of the shoulders and even into the arm and hand. But for the most part, local pain can be an indicator that the cause of the pain is not due to a nerve.
Pain from a nerve condition, however, can potentially radiate or shoot down the arm and even into the hand.
Other Symptoms
When there is an issue with the nerve there are often accompanying symptoms. These could include numbness, tingling or weakness of the affected limb. However, these are only indicators and it is possible to have numbness that’s unrelated to the injury or weakness that is due to the pain from another structure.
This is why it is always advised to have a proper assessment by a chiropractor.
Red Flags for Neck Pain?
It is always advisable to see a chiropractor or a GP for any neck pain but if you are experiencing any of the symptoms below you should seek immediate medical assessment:
- Severe pain, unlike what you have experienced before
- A severe and new headache, the worst you have experienced
- Tingling, numbness or weakness in arm, shoulder or hands
- Pain associated with some kind of trauma or impact
- Shooting pain into the arm, shoulder or hands
- Difficulty in walking or balancing
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Fever or chills
Treatment for Neck Pain?
To see more on how neck pain may be treated you can read our blog here.
If you would like to know more about how we can help at BOLT Chiropractic or would like to book an appointment, please give us a call on 08 6154 6561 or Book Online today!
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