Neck pain: which doctor to see
Neck pain is most often caused by muscle tension: screens, an uncomfortable pillow, a draft. It usually settles in a few days; if the pain is severe, radiates to an arm or comes with numbness, book a neurologist.
Common causes
- Muscle tension from computer and smartphone use
- An awkward sleeping position
- Age-related changes of the cervical spine
- Disc herniations pressing on nerve roots
- Stress and habitual shoulder tension
When to seek urgent help
Do not wait for a scheduled visit if you have any of these signs:
- Neck pain after an injury or road accident
- Pain with numbness or weakness in an arm
- Pain with high fever and inability to bend the head forward
- Pain with dizziness, double vision or speech problems — call 103
- Night pain that keeps getting worse
Ambulance: 103 (103 from a mobile) · Unified rescue service: 911
What to bring to the visit
- A description: when it hurts, which movements make it worse
- Previous images of the cervical spine, if any
- A list of medicines you take
- Information about your work — screen time, driving
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to crack and stretch my neck?
Forceful manipulation without an examination can do harm. First let the doctor rule out nerve root and vessel problems, then pick the right exercises.
Whom should I see if my fingers go numb?
A neurologist: numbness is usually related to cervical nerve roots or tunnel syndromes.
More in “Back and joints”
All symptomsThe information on this page is for reference only and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis in person. If your condition worsens, call 103.