Differential Diagnosis for Neck Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Musculoskeletal strain: This is the most common cause of neck pain, often resulting from poor posture, overuse, or trauma. It is likely due to the high prevalence of musculoskeletal issues in the general population.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Cervical spondylosis: A common condition characterized by wear and tear on the discs and joints in the neck, often associated with aging.
- Herniated cervical disc: A condition where the soft inner gel of the disc leaks out, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain.
- Tension headache: A type of headache that can cause neck pain due to muscle tension.
- Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterized by widespread muscle pain, including the neck.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses:
- Cervical spine fracture: A serious condition that can occur due to trauma, osteoporosis, or other underlying conditions, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Spinal cord compression: A condition where the spinal cord is compressed, potentially leading to serious neurological deficits if not promptly treated.
- Meningitis: An infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, which can cause neck pain and stiffness.
- Carotid artery dissection: A tear in the carotid artery, which can lead to stroke if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and pain in the neck.
- Ankylosing spondylitis: A type of arthritis that can cause inflammation and stiffness in the neck and spine.
- Osteomyelitis: A bone infection that can occur in the cervical spine, often requiring prompt antibiotic treatment.
- Multiple myeloma: A type of blood cancer that can cause bone lesions, including in the cervical spine, leading to pain.