Persistent neck and shoulder pain could indicate spinal or nerve problems.
Neck and shoulder pain is a fairly common symptom that can occur after sleeping in the wrong position, working in one position for a long time, or muscle strain. However, not all pain is simply muscle aches. Some cases may be related to the cervical spine, discs, or nerve roots.
At the Senior Officers' Examination Department of the Central Military Hospital 108, many patients come for examination with symptoms of neck stiffness and difficulty turning their heads to either side. Many had previously thought they were simply lying in the wrong position and tried self-massage and exercise, but the symptoms did not improve.
According to doctors, neck and shoulder pain is a condition where the muscles in the neck, shoulders, and back of the neck become stiff, causing pain and restricting movement when turning the neck or head. Initially, patients may only feel aching or stiffness in the neck. When symptoms persist, recur, or affect daily activities, a medical examination is necessary to assess the condition and find the cause.
In many cases, neck and shoulder pain is caused by tension or stiffness in the neck, shoulder, and back muscles. However, neck pain can also be related to problems with the cervical spine, discs, or nerve roots.
Especially in older adults, those with underlying health conditions, or those taking multiple medications, a seemingly simple symptom needs to be considered within the context of their overall health status.
Dr. Nguyen Viet Khoa, Head of the Senior Officials Examination Department at Military Central Hospital 108, advises that patients should not be complacent or self-treat for extended periods when experiencing neck and shoulder pain.
"You should not attempt to bend, twist, adjust, or vigorously massage the neck area without first being examined and receiving treatment guidance from a musculoskeletal specialist," Dr. Nguyen Viet Khoa cautioned.
The use of painkillers, muscle relaxants, or other treatments should also be advised by a specialist healthcare professional, rather than being self-administered for extended periods.
Signs that require a doctor's visit
Dr. Nguyen Viet Khoa advises that patients should seek medical attention if they experience prolonged or recurring neck pain; pain radiating from the neck down to the shoulder, arm, or hand; or numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand.
Significantly restricted neck movement, pain occurring after injury or impact, worsening symptoms, or a substantial impact on daily activities are all situations that require evaluation.
Notably, if neck pain appears suddenly accompanied by weakness or paralysis of the limbs, facial asymmetry, difficulty speaking, altered consciousness, loss of balance, or severe headache, the patient should seek immediate medical attention for prompt evaluation.
Proactively protect your cervical spine.
According to Specialist Doctor Nguyen Viet Khoa, preventing factors that cause neck and shoulder pain starts with daily habits. People need to maintain proper posture when working, reading, and using computers; and limit prolonged periods of bending over to use their phones.
In addition, it's important to maintain physical activity and choose gentle exercises that are suitable for your age and physical condition. When sleeping, use a pillow of appropriate height and avoid positions that cause the neck to bend or twist.
Neck and shoulder pain may simply be a sign that the body needs rest, posture adjustment, and proper exercise. However, if the pain is prolonged, recurring, or accompanied by unusual symptoms, patients should not continue self-treating without knowing the cause.
Dr. Do Thi Loan (Department of Examination for Senior Officials, Central Military Hospital 108)
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