Neck pain is a common health problem today due to the intense stress of modern life, including desk work, the extensive use of technological devices, and a sedentary lifestyle. Prolonged computer work, tilting the head forward while using a smartphone, and unergonomic working conditions can all contribute to this pain, placing constant pressure on the neck muscles.

Magnet Hospital stands out with its patient-centered, comprehensive, and multidisciplinary treatment methods for musculoskeletal disorders. It provides professional support throughout both the diagnosis and treatment process for individuals experiencing neck pain.

For more information or to make an appointment online, you can call
0312 212 80 80 or apply through the Magnet Hospital appointment page .

1. What is Neck Pain?

Neck pain occurs due to various causes of damage to the spine, muscles, nerves, and connective tissues in the neck area. The pain often radiates not only to the neck but also to the shoulders, back, and even arms.

The neck is one of the most mobile parts of the spine. Therefore, factors such as trauma, poor posture, or degenerative diseases can easily cause pain in this area. Long-term, untreated neck pain can develop into chronic neck pain over time and significantly impact a person's quality of life.

2. Causes of Neck Pain

Magnet Hospital's specialist doctors conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine the causes of neck pain. The most common causes of neck pain include:

a. Muscle tension: Wrong habits such as using a computer for a long time or holding the phone with the head tilted to the side cause tension in the muscles.

b. Postural disorders: Using non-ergonomic chairs and tables, incorrect sitting and lying positions strain the neck muscles.

c. Traumas: Damage to the cervical vertebrae may occur as a result of traffic accidents, falls or sudden movements.

d. Cervical disc herniation and degenerative disc diseases: Deterioration of the discs between the vertebrae puts pressure on the nerve roots, causing severe pain.

d. Rheumatic diseases: Joint diseases, especially rheumatoid arthritis, affect the neck joints and cause pain.

e. Stress and tension: Long-term stress causes contraction in the neck and shoulder muscles.

f. Osteoarthritis, neck stiffness, calcification: These are among the causes of neck pain.

3. Symptoms of Neck Pain

The symptoms of neck pain are not limited to pain alone. Magnet Hospital carefully evaluates these symptoms to provide an accurate diagnosis. Common symptoms include:

• Limited neck movements

• Tension and stiffness in the shoulder and back area

• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms

• Headaches and dizziness

• Muscle spasms

• Stiff neck

If one or more of these symptoms are present, it is necessary to consult a specialist physician, especially in cases of long-lasting neck pain.

4. What Causes Left or Right Neck Pain?

Neck pain doesn't always have to affect both sides. In some cases, the pain can be concentrated only on the left neck or only on the right. Muscle spasms, particularly on one side, are often observed in cases of neck stiffness. This condition, commonly known as "stiff neck," is actually spasms caused by sudden and violent contractions of the neck muscles.

One-sided neck pain isn't just caused by muscle spasms; the early stages of a cervical disc herniation can also cause this type of pain. In this case, the pain is usually concentrated on one side and gradually radiates to the arm on the same side. This pain can feel sharp, stinging, or burning.

In rare cases, tumors in the neck can cause pain. If a mass or tumor is present in the neck, pressure-related pain may be felt on the side where these structures are located. This type of pain is usually progressive and does not respond to conventional treatment methods.

Individuals experiencing left or right neck pain should pay close attention to the nature, severity, duration, and other accompanying symptoms of the pain. No time should be wasted, especially if the following symptoms are present:

• Numbness or weakness in the arms

• dizziness

• Difficulty swallowing

• Severe headache

The specialist physicians at Magnet Hospital use advanced diagnostic methods to precisely determine the cause of this type of unilateral neck pain. Using modern imaging techniques such as X-ray, MRI, CT, and EMG, we make an accurate diagnosis and initiate a personalized treatment plan. This helps address the underlying cause of the pain and improve the patient's quality of life.

5. Neck Pain Diagnostic Methods

At Magnet Hospital, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to identify the cause of neck pain. The goal is to clearly pinpoint the source of the pain and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.

a. Physical examination:
The patient's neck range of motion, muscle strength and nerve reflexes are evaluated by specialist physicians.

b. Imaging techniques:
The spinal structure and soft tissues are examined in detail with advanced imaging methods such as X-ray, MRI (Magnetic Resonance) and CT (Computed Tomography).

c. Electromyography (EMG):
It is determined whether there is nerve compression by measuring nerve conduction velocities.

Magnet Hospital brings together its technological infrastructure and expert physician staff in the diagnostic process, accelerating the path to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

6. Treatment Methods for Neck Pain

Magnet Hospital's primary goal in neck pain treatment is to improve patients' quality of life and minimize pain. The treatment plan is tailored to each patient's needs. The primary methods used are:

a. Medication:
Painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants are used to reduce pain and inflammation.

b. Physical therapy:
Special exercises performed by experienced physiotherapists increase muscle strength and improve flexibility.

c. Manual therapy:
Muscle relaxation is achieved through special massage and stretching techniques applied to the neck area.

d. Injection treatments:
Pain is quickly relieved by injections into painful areas.

d. Surgical methods:
Very rarely, they are used in cases of cervical disc herniation or advanced nerve compression.

Magnet Hospital closely monitors the patient's condition throughout the treatment process and updates the treatment plan when necessary.

7. Ways to Prevent Neck Pain

To prevent neck pain, some habits need to be changed in daily life:

1. Create an ergonomic workspace.

2. Do not stay in the same position for a long time.

3. Do not keep your head bowed for long periods of time while using the phone.

4. Strengthen your neck and back muscles, especially by exercising regularly.

5. Use the right pillow and suitable mattress.

Magnet Hospital provides not only treatment but also preventive health support to its patients by providing personal education and consultancy services on this subject.

8. Neck Pain Relief Methods That Can Be Easily Done at Home

9. Which Department Should You Visit for Neck Pain?

Patients experiencing neck pain often wonder which doctor to see. Magnet Hospital offers two main specialties:

a. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Department:
This is the first point of contact for muscle spasms, postural disorders, and mechanical neck pain. Experienced physiotherapists and physical therapists working here improve patient quality of life with personalized exercise programs and physical therapy applications.

b. Department of Brain, Nerve, and Spinal Cord Surgery: This
department is involved in serious conditions such as cervical disc herniation, severe nerve compression, and spinal cord compression. Magnet Hospital surgeons offer permanent solutions to patients using modern imaging techniques and advanced surgical methods.

10. Frequently Asked Questions – Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Pain

The numbered questions below are listed in alphabetical order to avoid confusion ; the content remains the same.

a. Which department should be consulted for neck pain?

Patients experiencing neck pain should consult Magnet Hospital's Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation or the Department of Brain, Nerve and Spinal Cord Surgery.

• Physical Therapy: Suitable for muscle spasms, posture disorders, mechanical neck pain.

• Brain and Nerve Surgery: It is preferred in cases such as cervical disc herniation, nerve compression, and spinal cord compression.

b. How long does it take for neck pain to go away?

The cause of the pain depends on its severity and the treatment process. While simple muscle strains may resolve within a few days, a cervical disc herniation or chronic neck pain can last for weeks. Magnet Hospital aims to shorten recovery time with a personalized treatment plan.

c. What is the difference between a cervical disc herniation and neck pain?

• In a cervical disc herniation, the discs put pressure on the nerves; the pain is accompanied by arm numbness, tingling and weakness.

• Simple neck pain is usually caused by muscle, there is no nerve pressure.

• Magnet Hospital makes this distinction clearly with advanced imaging techniques.

c. What is good for neck and nape pain at home?

• Hot or cold compress

• Gentle neck exercises

• Correct posture

However, in cases of severe, long-lasting pain or pain that radiates to the arm, physical therapists should be consulted.

d. Why does neck pain become chronic?

Continuing poor posture, delayed treatment, or structural issues like herniated discs can lead to chronic neck pain. Magnet Hospital reduces this risk with both treatment and preventative healthcare services.

e. Does phone use cause neck pain?

Yes, using your phone with your head tilted forward for extended periods can lead to a condition known as "tech neck." This causes tension and pain in the neck muscles. Magnet Hospital experts offer ergonomic recommendations to prevent this condition.

f. Which pillow should be used for neck pain?

Medium-firm orthopedic pillows that support the curve of the neck should be preferred. The wrong pillow can exacerbate neck pain. Magnet Hospital's Physical Therapy Department provides guidance to patients on choosing the most appropriate pillow.

g. Does neck pain cause dizziness?

Yes, dizziness can be caused by muscle spasms and nerve compression in the neck vertebrae. In these cases, detailed diagnostic tests are performed at Magnet Hospital.

g. What happens if a cervical disc herniation is not treated?

Untreated cervical disc herniation can lead to permanent nerve damage and muscle weakness. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Magnet Hospital offers professional support at every stage, including modern surgical techniques.

h. When is surgery necessary for neck pain?

Surgery is generally reserved for patients with severe nerve compression or spinal cord compression who have not responded to medication and physical therapy. Magnet Hospital's Neurosurgery team bases surgical decisions on a multidisciplinary evaluation.

i. Does exercise prevent neck pain?

Yes, regular exercises that strengthen neck and back muscles improve posture and reduce the risk of pain. Magnet Hospital's physical therapists create personalized exercise programs.

i. What is good for neck pain?

If there is no underlying disease causing neck pain, most of the time the pain can be relieved by applying heat, stretching movements, massage, using local pain-relieving muscle relaxant creams, using a neck collar, painkillers, and avoiding stress.

11. What are the causes of persistent neck pain?

The underlying condition of persistent neck pain must be investigated by a specialist. Advanced tests such as neck MRI, neck CT scan, and EMG can confirm the diagnosis. The underlying conditions of persistent neck pain include:

• Cervical disc herniation

• neck straightening

• Tumor

• Calcification

• Spinal cord problems

• Joint problems

• Nerve compressions

• Vascular problems

12. Can Shoulder Pain and Neck Pain Occur at the Same Time?

In a cervical disc herniation, the normal functioning of the shoulder joint muscles is disrupted and in this case, shoulder and neck pain may occur together.

13. Can Back and Neck Pain Occur at the Same Time?

Back and neck pain can occur together. Back pain can also occur alongside neck pain, especially in patients with a cervical disc herniation and poor posture.

14. Does Neck Pain Cause Pain in the Arm?

Especially in cases of cervical disc herniation, severe pain radiating to the arm is observed along with neck pain.

15. Does Neck Pain Cause Headaches?

Yes, neck pain can cause headaches.
Headaches can also occur alongside neck pain due to spinal deformities, muscle spasms, stress, fatigue, poor posture, or nerve compression. Dizziness can also accompany this condition. If your headache worsens with neck movement, begins with a stiff neck, or radiates from the base of your neck to the crown of your head and temples, it may be due to neck pain.

16. Are Muscle Relaxant Creams Good for Neck Pain?

For simple cases like neck stiffness and neck muscle spasms, massaging the cream can provide relief. Creams have no therapeutic properties. If symptoms persist, a doctor should be consulted.

17. Does Influenza Cause Neck Pain?

Yes, the flu can cause widespread muscle aches. Therefore, conditions like neck muscle pain, cough, and sore throat can cause tension in the neck muscles, leading to neck pain and headaches.

18. How to Treat Neck Pain During Pregnancy?

Because medication is limited during pregnancy, especially until the fourth month, non-drug solutions are sought. Physical therapy, manual therapy, massage, stretching, and wearing a neck brace are some of the methods used to alleviate neck pain.

19. Can I Get Neck Pain After Exercise?

Neck pain can occur after activities that strain the neck muscles, such as crunches. Even a cervical disc herniation can occur in sports that put significant strain on the neck and muscles.

20. Why is a Neck Collar Used for Neck Pain?

A neck brace is used to limit neck movement and prevent strain. This immobility reduces pain from nerve compression and herniated discs. It also reduces muscle tension and spasms. However, because prolonged use can weaken neck muscles, it's important to wear it for the specific hours recommended by your doctor.

21. Where Should I Go For Neck Pain?

For neck pain, patients in Ankara can go to the physical therapy and rehabilitation departments of private hospitals, physical therapy centers, state hospitals, and university hospitals.

22. Neck Pain Treatment Prices

Neck pain treatment costs in private hospitals and physical therapy centers
vary depending on your health insurance (SGK, private insurance or complementary health insurance) and the content of your treatment.

23. How is Neck Pain Treated at Magnet Hospital?

Magnet Hospital creates a personalized treatment plan using a combination of medication, physical therapy, manual therapy, injections, and, when necessary, surgical methods.