Our bodies are a complex structure made up of muscles, bones and nerves. You have at least suffered from neck pain or back pain in your life. Back pain is a symptom of a medical condition and not a diagnosis itself. It affects us at some time in our lives. In neck pain, some people can experience it as neck pain, back pain or even both. So what are their causes?

What causes neck pain?

Neck pains are less prevalent compared to back pains. There are a number of miscellaneous causes which include:

-Cervical degenerative disc disease

-Cervical osteoarthritis

-Stenosis with myelopathy

-Foraminal stenosis

-Shoulder joint instability

-Pinched nerves also known as radiculopathy

-Abnormalities in the joints

-Poor posture

-Abnormalities in the bones or joints

-Tumors and trauma

What causes back pain?

Back pains are caused mainly by minor sprains, injuries or irritated nerves. They can sometimes develop suddenly for no good reason like waking up with a back pain. They can also be caused due to everyday activities or even develop with time.

Some of the causes of back pain include:

-Overusing the muscles like during repetitive movements

-Bending awkwardly or for very long periods

-Lifting, pushing or carrying of heavy objects

-Driving or sitting in a slouched position or for a very long time without a break.

-Collar or upper arm bone fractures

-Dislocation

-Shoulder joint instability

-Tendonitis from overuse

The conditions commonly linked to neck and back pain

There are certain things that are known to increase the chances of one developing neck pain and back pain. Some of this include:

Arthritis- Arthritis in the spine may lead to a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord.

Skeletal Irregularities- When the spine curves abnormally, back pain can result.

Being overweight – Extra weight on you can lead to some pressure on your spine.

Being pregnant – The additional weight due to the baby can cause a strain on your back.

Long term use of medications that weaken the bones – These may include corticosteroids.

The treatment for neck and back pain

The treatment for neck pain and back pain involve the use of anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen Advil or Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve or Naprosyn).

Muscle relievers and antidepressants may also be useful depending on the source of pain. Some pain relievers like Acetaminophen may also be greatly recommended.

Exercises can also help or the application of moist heat or ice on the affected area. In case the nerve roots or the spinal cord are involved, surgical procedures may be required.