Expert: John Quackenbush DC - 6/10/2011

Question
I have persistent neck pain and headache for 3 weeks. I am conscious of it when I get up in the morning and it worsens during the day but is never severe. If I concentrate on something or watch a movie etc the pain level goes down / almost goes away. I also feel I have a slight problem in tilting my head to the right - I feel a pain similar to a muscle pull on my shoulder. I get feelings of mild nausea occaisionally. If I put on my phone headset in the office pain becomes more. I am more sensistive to cold and sound. Titling my neck back causes pain.

I had similar symptoms of headache a year and a half ago - went for neuro check up and MRI - all clear.

Answer
Abhay,

considering a symptomatic issues that you are describing it is apparent that you are more than likely suffering with subluxation of the cervical vertebra which in turn results in a hinged nerves. A subluxation occurs when one or more of the cervical vertebra gets out of position and pinches nerves.  The main indicator that you  described is the tilting your head backwards and/or to the side causing increased pain.These pinched nerves are also affecting the muscles of your  shoulder(s) and therefore are more than likely the cause of the pulled muscle feeling you have in the shoulder.

I am happy to hear that the MRI you have with the neurologist is considered all clear. However, I would suggest that you get an examination from a chiropractor to determine if in fact it is pinch nerves are causing her symptoms. nearly symptoms that your experiencing such as mild nausea and sensitivity to cold and may me be indirectly related to the pinch nerves.

I sincerely hope the above helps you in your medical decision process.

Sincerely,

Dr John Quackenbush