Neck & Cervical

Pain that starts in your neck and travels to your shoulder, arm, or even fingers usually means a nerve in your neck is being pinched — often by a disc that has slipped slightly. Your neck has seven small bones stacked up, with soft cushions between them. When one cushion bulges, it can press on a nerve and send pain down your arm like a signal traveling along a wire.

A stiff neck that won't let you turn your head can come from many things — sleeping in a bad position, stress, or wear and tear over time. Think of your neck like a rusty door hinge. Usually, gentle movement, heat, and time help. But if the stiffness doesn't go away or comes with fever or severe headache, see the doctor to rule out anything more serious.

Feeling dizzy when you move your neck could mean the blood vessels or nerves in your neck area are being affected by your neck position. It's like a kink in a garden hose — when you bend it a certain way, the flow gets blocked. A doctor can figure out exactly what's happening and give you exercises or treatment to help.