Differential Diagnosis for Tenderness in Facial, Neck, and Shoulder Muscles
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Tension Headache: This is the most common type of headache and is often associated with tenderness in the facial, neck, and shoulder muscles due to muscle contraction and tension.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and tender points, which can include the facial, neck, and shoulder areas.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: Disorders of the TMJ can cause pain and tenderness in the facial muscles, and may also radiate to the neck and shoulder areas.
- Cervicogenic Headache: Headaches that originate from the cervical spine can cause pain and tenderness in the neck and shoulder muscles, which may also refer pain to the facial area.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Giant Cell Arteritis: An inflammatory condition that can cause severe headaches, jaw claudication, and tenderness in the facial and neck muscles. It's crucial to diagnose early to prevent complications like vision loss.
- Meningitis: Inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, which can cause severe headache, neck stiffness, and facial pain. Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment.
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Bleeding into the space surrounding the brain can cause a sudden, severe headache (often described as "the worst headache" ever experienced), neck stiffness, and potentially facial pain.
Rare Diagnoses
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica: An inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, primarily in the neck, shoulder, and hip areas, but can also affect the facial muscles.
- Dermatomyositis: A condition characterized by muscle weakness and skin rash, which can also cause tenderness in various muscle groups, including those in the face, neck, and shoulders.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, causing intense pain in the face, which can sometimes be accompanied by tenderness in the facial muscles.