Neck pain on the left side: Causes, diagnosis, and relief – Medical News Today
The neck is a vital part of the human body. It provides support and mobility for the head. It contains the cervical spinal cord, muscles, and major blood vessels that supply the entire body.
The neck is often exposed, which increases the risk of injury to its internal str…….
The neck is a vital part of the human body. It provides support and mobility for the head. It contains the cervical spinal cord, muscles, and major blood vessels that supply the entire body.
The neck is often exposed, which increases the risk of injury to its internal structures.
Many people experience temporary neck pain due to a variety of everyday activities and tasks. However, neck pain also ranks among the top five most common chronic pain conditions.
Pain on the left side of the neck usually occurs due to benign causes, such as muscle strain from sleeping in an awkward position or inflammation.
However, severe or persistent left side neck pain may indicate a more serious underlying medical condition.
This article discusses some causes of pain on the left side of the neck, when to see a doctor, and some treatment options.
Numerous factors can lead to neck pain on the left side, including:
Muscle strain or tension
Neck pain often results from muscle strain or tension.
Muscle strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn. Muscle tension occurs when a muscle does not fully release after contracting.
People can develop muscle strain or tension in the neck as a result of:
- sleeping in an awkward position, such as with the neck bent or twisted to one side
- hunching over or leaning forward for several hours at a time
- holding a phone between the ear and the shoulder
- overexerting the neck muscles when lifting heavy objects or exercising
- collisions or falls that cause whiplash
- grinding their teeth
- stress
- nonspecific causes
These conditions may cause the following symptoms:
- neck pain or stiffness
- a decreased range of motion and flexibility
- swelling in the neck or shoulder
- muscle spasms in the shoulder
- numbness or tingling in the arms
- headaches
Torticollis
Torticollis, or “wryneck,” is a medical condition that causes the neck to bend, twist, or tilt to one side. This condition usually occurs when the neck muscles contract due to:
- injuries or accidents
- congenital irregularities
- neurological conditions, such as stroke or compressed nerves
- exposure to cold temperatures
- certain medications
- infections
- emotional stress
Symptoms may include:
- pain and difficulty when …….
Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/neck-pain-on-the-left-side
