Neck pain symptoms can vary widely. If you’re unsure whether or not your neck pain is serious, it is important to get it checked. Rarely, neck pain can be a symptom of a more serious problem.
If your neck pain is excruciation, or if your neck pain is associated with trouble swallowing, double vision, or other unusual symptoms you should call 911.
If your neck pain is the result of a trauma, like a motor vehicle accident or a fall, it’s important to get checked. Speak with your healthcare provider urgently.
Seek care from a healthcare provider for neck pain with numbness or loss of strength in the arms or hands or for pain that shoots into a shoulder or down an arm. When neck pain that interferes with routine activities persists more than a few days, you should seek care from a healthcare provider.