Neck Pain from Muscle Strain and Body Vibration - Rehabilitation

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Your symptoms and experiences suggest a complex interplay of muscle strain, potential nerve involvement, and possibly underlying issues related to your cervical spine. The sudden onset of pain and the sensation of a "nerve being cut" during your workout could indicate a significant muscle strain or even a temporary nerve compression due to muscle spasm or inflammation. The fact that you experienced temporary loss of vision and strength is concerning and suggests that there might have been a transient neurological event, possibly related to the cervical spine.

Given that you have already undergone X-rays, which showed no bony damage, it is essential to consider other potential causes for your ongoing symptoms. The pain you experience during activities that involve body vibration, such as running or jumping, as well as when you tilt your head, could be indicative of several conditions:
1. Muscle Strain: The initial injury during your workout may have caused a strain in the muscles of the neck. Muscle strains can lead to inflammation and pain, particularly when the affected muscles are engaged during movement or vibration.

2. Cervical Radiculopathy: If there is any nerve root compression in the cervical spine, it could lead to pain that radiates down the arm or causes sensations like tingling or numbness in the fingers. This could explain the initial symptoms you experienced, including the tingling in your fingertips.

3. Cervical Disc Issues: Although your X-rays did not show damage, it is possible that there could be issues with the intervertebral discs that are not visible on X-rays. A herniated or bulging disc could cause nerve compression, leading to pain and neurological symptoms.

4. Muscle Tension and Trigger Points: Chronic muscle tension can lead to the formation of trigger points, which are hyperirritable spots in the muscle that can refer pain to other areas. This could explain the localized pain you feel during specific movements.

5. Cervical Spondylosis: Age-related wear and tear on the cervical spine can lead to degenerative changes that might not be evident on initial imaging but could contribute to your symptoms.

To further evaluate your condition, I recommend the following steps:
- Consult a Specialist: Since your symptoms involve potential nerve involvement and persistent pain, it would be prudent to see a neurologist or a physiatrist (rehabilitation specialist). They can perform a thorough neurological examination and may recommend additional imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess soft tissue structures, including discs and nerves.

- Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can help you with exercises to strengthen the neck muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. They can also provide modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to help with pain relief.

- Pain Management: If your pain persists, a pain management specialist may offer interventions such as nerve blocks or other treatments to alleviate your symptoms.

- Consider Alternative Therapies: While Western medicine is essential, some patients find relief through complementary therapies such as acupuncture or chiropractic care. However, ensure that any practitioner you see is qualified and that you discuss this with your primary care physician.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their intensity, and any activities that exacerbate or relieve them. This information will be valuable for your healthcare providers.

In conclusion, while muscle strain is a likely cause of your symptoms, the possibility of nerve involvement or other cervical spine issues should not be overlooked. A comprehensive evaluation by the appropriate specialists will help clarify the diagnosis and guide effective treatment.