A burning sensation in the neck is a common complaint that points to a wide range of possible causes. The neck, or cervical spine, is a complex anatomical structure composed of seven vertebrae (C1-C7), muscles, and the spinal cord. Because of this complexity, the burning feeling can originate from a mild, superficial skin irritation or a deeper issue involving the spine or nervous system. Understanding the nature and location of the burning sensation is the first step in determining its source.
Neuropathic Causes Originating in the Cervical Spine
When the burning sensation is deep and accompanied by other neurological symptoms, the problem often lies in the cervical spine. This neuropathic pain involves the nerve roots that branch out from the spinal cord. Cervical radiculopathy, commonly referred to as a “pinched nerve,” is a frequent cause of this type of discomfort.
The sensation occurs when a nerve root is compressed or irritated as it exits the spine, often causing a sharp, electrical, or burning pain that may radiate down the shoulder, arm, or hand. Compression can be caused by a herniated disc, where the soft inner material bulges out and presses against the nerve root.
Another mechanism is spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spaces within the spine that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. In older adults, degenerative changes like bone spurs (cervical spondylosis) commonly cause this narrowing. The burning pain from these spinal issues tends to be aggravated by certain neck movements, such as extending the neck or turning the head, and often presents as pins-and-needles or numbness in the extremities.
Muscular Tension and Postural Strain
A common cause of neck burning is chronic strain and tension in the surrounding musculature. The sensation is usually localized to the neck and upper back, often involving the trapezius muscles. Sustained poor posture, frequently termed “tech neck” due to the constant downward gaze at electronic devices, places excessive stress on the neck and shoulder muscles.
When muscles remain contracted for prolonged periods, they can develop trigger points, which are highly sensitive spots within the tissue. This chronic contraction leads to inflammation and muscle fatigue, resulting in a localized, dull, or burning pain. The weight of the head positioned forward of the shoulders forces the neck muscles to work harder, leading to this strain. Injuries like whiplash can also overstretch the neck muscles and cause inflammation that produces a burning sensation along with stiffness.
Surface and Skin Irritations
Sometimes, the burning sensation is entirely superficial, localized to the skin’s surface. One common cause is contact dermatitis, an inflammatory reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or an allergen. This can result from exposure to new detergents, perfumes, jewelry containing nickel, or certain fabrics rubbing against the neck. The resulting rash is often red, itchy, and accompanied by a stinging or burning feeling.
Viral infections can also manifest as a burning sensation on the skin of the neck. Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, presents as a painful, blistering rash that typically appears on one side of the body, often along a single nerve pathway. The rash is preceded by an intense burning, tingling, or itching sensation. A severe sunburn, which causes damage and inflammation to the skin’s outer layers, will also produce a distinct surface-level burning.
Recognizing Serious Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Care
While most neck burning resolves on its own, certain accompanying symptoms, known as “red flags,” demand immediate medical attention. Any burning that is sudden and severe, or follows a traumatic injury such as a car accident or fall, should be evaluated urgently. Neurological changes, including sudden weakness, numbness, or tingling that travels down the arms or legs, may indicate significant spinal cord or nerve root compression.
Other signs of a potentially serious condition include a high fever, unexplained weight loss, or loss of bladder or bowel control accompanying the neck pain. The neck can also be a site of referred pain from systemic issues. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause a burning sensation in the throat and chest that can sometimes move up to the neck and jaw. Chest pain that radiates to the neck, jaw, or arms, especially when accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or a feeling of pressure, could signal a cardiac event and requires immediate emergency services.