The symptoms of a stiff neck usually include pain, soreness and difficulty when turning the head. In some individuals, other symptoms include headaches and shoulder or arm pain. The stiff neck typically occurs due to muscle strain and subsides within a few days as long as the individual was able to rest and proper care measures were carried out.
Nevertheless, a stiff neck might be an indication of an infection or serious damage to the spine. A doctor should be consulted so that an accurate diagnosis can be given as well as start the appropriate treatment.
Muscle strain
A stiff neck due to the muscle strain typically involves sprains or tightness in the levator scapula muscle. This muscle connects from the upper 4 vertebrae of the cervical spine to the shoulder blade. A strain on the neck can be caused by sleeping in a bad position, stress, poor posture, repetitive neck movements and accidents during sports. Over-the-counter pain medications, application of cold or heat, massage and adequate rest can help manage a minor neck strain.
Slipped disc
If there is tingling or numbness along with the stiff neck, it indicates a slipped disc. A slipped disc involves displacement and rupture in the connective tissue pads between each of the vertebrae.
The doctor will treat herniated discs with physical therapy, pain medications, application of heat and oftentimes surgery is even needed. Occasionally, the neck pain from a slipped disc can originate from displaced nerves instead of tissue rupture.
Spinal issues
Spinal stenosis, whiplash and osteoarthritis can also cause pain and stiff neck. Whiplash occurs once the neck whips forward and backward abruptly during a vehicular accident or traumatic event. The pain results from stretched ligaments and joints. Due to this, the doctor might prescribe a neck brace, pain medications and physical therapy.
Spinal stenosis involves narrowing of the spinal column, thus adding pressure on the nerves and typically occurs with age. Osteoarthritis involves damage to the joint due to the aging progress as well as wear and tear.
Infection
If an individual has headache, high fever, sleepiness, confusion, nausea and vomiting along with the stiff neck, it can indicate meningitis. This condition causes swelling and inflammation in the membranes that surround the brain and spinal column.
A bacterial, virus or fungal infection can cause meningitis. This requires immediate medical care. The treatment involves antibiotics for bacterial infections as well as supportive care such as administration of intravenous fluids. In some cases, surgery is required to prevent brain damage.
In case the stiff neck of an individual seems to get worse or persists for several days, it is best to schedule an appointment with a doctor in order to determine if there are any underlying causes.