A burning sensation on the left side of the neck can be unsettling. This discomfort can range from mild to severe, sometimes spreading into the shoulder, back, or arm. While concerning, this is a common complaint. It can stem from various causes, some benign and others needing medical attention.
Common Reasons for Burning Sensation
Muscle strain or spasm often causes a burning sensation in the neck due to overuse, sudden movements, or prolonged stress. This leads to tension and inflammation, causing burning discomfort.
Poor posture, especially from looking down at devices, commonly causes neck pain, known as “tech neck.” This forward head posture increases pressure on the neck, leading to strain and a burning sensation.
Minor trauma or injury can cause burning. Whiplash or other impacts can irritate muscles and tissues, leading to inflammation and pain. Injuries to the brachial plexus, a nerve network, can cause a “burner” or “stinger” sensation, radiating burning down the arm.
Understanding Nerve Involvement
Nerve compression or irritation can lead to a burning sensation in the neck. Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine is compressed or inflamed. This often results from a herniated disc or bone spurs, causing sharp or burning pain radiating down the arm, with numbness, tingling, or weakness.
Irritation of specific nerves can also cause localized burning. Occipital neuralgia involves inflammation or injury to the occipital nerves. It presents as burning, aching, or throbbing pain at the skull’s base, triggered by neck movement or touch.
Neck pain can sometimes originate from a different body area. This, called referred pain, occurs when a nerve pathway transmits pain signals from a distant source to the neck. Conditions affecting the shoulder or upper back, for example, may be perceived as burning in the neck due to shared nerve pathways.
When Professional Medical Advice is Needed
Seek professional medical advice if a burning sensation in the neck is severe or worsening. Pain that doesn’t improve with self-care or intensifies despite rest warrants evaluation. Persistent or increasing discomfort indicates a serious underlying condition.
Accompanying symptoms signal prompt medical attention. If the burning sensation combines with weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arm or hand, consult a healthcare provider. Other signs include loss of bladder or bowel control, unexplained fever, chills, or unintended weight loss.
Immediate medical care is necessary if the burning sensation began after an injury. This includes falls, motor vehicle accidents, or significant head or neck trauma. Such events can cause severe damage requiring urgent assessment.
If neck pain significantly interferes with daily activities, sleep, or work, a medical consultation is appropriate. When symptoms negatively impact quality of life, a professional can diagnose and recommend management strategies.
Diagnostic Steps and Care Options
A medical visit for neck burning begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. The provider will ask about the pain’s nature, onset, and associated symptoms. During the exam, they assess neck movement, check for tenderness, and evaluate neurological function, including sensation and strength.
If necessary, imaging tests visualize the neck’s underlying structures. X-rays reveal bone abnormalities, while Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides detailed images of soft tissues like discs, nerves, and the spinal cord. Computed Tomography (CT) scans offer cross-sectional views, helping identify or rule out cervical spine conditions.
Care focuses on alleviating symptoms and addressing the root cause. Initial recommendations include rest, applying ice or heat, and using over-the-counter pain relievers for discomfort and inflammation. Physical therapy is often recommended to improve strength, flexibility, and posture. In some instances, prescription medications or targeted injections may reduce pain and inflammation.