Neck Pain

How is the condition diagnosed?

The first step in figuring out the cause is a history and physical exam. This may be all that is needed to make the diagnosis. In other cases, further tests may be needed.

Different tests may be ordered, depending upon the suspected cause of the neck pain. For instance, blood tests can be used to help diagnose some infections in the thyroid gland. Neck x-rays are commonly used, and can detect arthritis in the neck or broken and dislocated bones in the neck. Special x-ray tests, such as a CT scan, may be needed in certain cases. For instance, a CT scan can help detect bulging disks or tumors in the neck.