Differential Diagnosis for Neck Pain

Single most likely diagnosis

• Cervical spondylosis or cervical disc herniation: This condition is likely due to the mechanical nature of the pain, which is exacerbated by specific movements such as bending the neck down or turning the head to the left. These movements can put additional stress on the cervical spine, leading to pain if there is underlying spondylosis or a herniated disc.

Other Likely diagnoses

• Torticollis: This condition involves a twisted neck, which could cause pain on the left side of the trachea, especially with movement. It could be due to muscle spasms or other underlying issues.
• Cervical strain or sprain: Overuse or acute injury to the muscles or ligaments in the neck could lead to pain that is worsened by specific movements.
• Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland, which is located in the front of the neck, could cause pain that is exacerbated by movement, although this is less likely to be directly related to neck movements.

Do Not Miss diagnoses

• Carotid artery dissection: Although rare, this is a potentially life-threatening condition that could present with neck pain, especially if the dissection involves the left carotid artery. The pain might be exacerbated by movements that affect blood flow.
• Eagle syndrome: This condition involves an elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament, which can cause sharp pain in the neck that worsens with movement of the head or neck.
• Cervical spine infection (e.g., osteomyelitis, discitis): Infections of the cervical spine can cause severe pain that is worsened by movement and can have serious consequences if not promptly treated.

Rare diagnoses

• Referred pain from thoracic outlet syndrome: This condition involves compression of the nerves or blood vessels that pass into the thoracic outlet (the space between your collarbone and first rib). It can cause pain in the neck and arm, which might be exacerbated by certain movements.
• Cervical dystonia: A neurological disorder that causes involuntary muscle contractions in the neck, leading to abnormal postures and movements, which could result in pain.
• Neck pain due to lymphadenopathy: Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck could cause pain, especially if they are located on the left side and are irritated by movement. This could be due to infection, autoimmune disease, or malignancy.