Neck Pain and Scalp Tingling: When to See a Neurologist

Q: Neck Pain and Scalp Tingling: When to See a Neurologist

Hello： Based on your description, it may be necessary to consider spinal-related diseases. <br>Excessive force during neck rotation and other external factors can lead to cervical instability, dislocation, and cervical disc herniation. <br>If there are pathological changes in the

Scalp tingling and pain in the left posterior neck?

I would like to ask about the tightness and soreness I've been experiencing in the left side of my neck over the past two days.
The pain extends up to the scalp at the back of my left head, which feels tingly, and I also have a bit of dizziness.
What condition could this be? If I need to see a doctor, should I consult a neurologist? Thank you, doctor!

Ms. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/20

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: Based on your description, it may be necessary to consider spinal-related diseases.
Excessive force during neck rotation and other external factors can lead to cervical instability, dislocation, and cervical disc herniation.
If there are pathological changes in the cervical joints, it can cause neck pain and stiffness, as well as pain due to compression of nearby nerve roots, which may extend to the shoulders, arms, and hands, causing discomfort.

Treatment can be divided into medication and physical therapy:
1.
Medication: When nerves are compressed, an inflammatory response occurs, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used for treatment, as they have both anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can reduce the inflammatory response and alleviate pain.
2.
Physical Therapy:
- Heat Therapy: Primarily increases local blood circulation and improves muscle ischemia.
- Shortwave and Ultrasound Therapy: Mainly promotes blood circulation in deeper tissues.
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Medium Frequency Interferential Current: Can provide localized pain relief and alleviate tension and discomfort in the neck and shoulders.
- Spinal Traction: Commonly used for degenerative joint disease of the cervical or lumbar spine, herniated discs (bone spurs), with complications of nerve root compression, and spinal injuries without fractures or joint instability.
Spinal traction can be utilized for rehabilitation, but prior to traction, an X-ray examination is necessary to confirm joint stability.
I recommend that you consult with a neurologist or a rehabilitation physician to discuss examination and treatment options.
However, due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, please ensure to implement self-protection measures and maintain cleanliness and disinfection before and after seeking medical care.

Wishing you good health and peace.

Dr.
Jiang, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/02/20

More Info

When experiencing neck pain and scalp tingling, especially if these symptoms are accompanied by dizziness, it is essential to consider several potential underlying causes. Your description suggests a possible issue related to muscle tension, nerve irritation, or even cervical spine problems.
Neck pain, particularly when it radiates to the scalp, can often be attributed to muscle strain or tension. This is common in individuals who may have poor posture, spend long hours at a desk, or engage in activities that require repetitive neck movements. The tightness in your neck could lead to irritation of the nerves that exit the cervical spine, resulting in sensations of tingling or numbness in the scalp. This condition is often referred to as cervicogenic headache, where pain originates from the cervical spine and manifests as headaches.

Additionally, if you have a history of trauma to the neck or head, such as whiplash or a concussion, this could also contribute to your symptoms. In such cases, the cervical spine may be misaligned, leading to nerve compression or irritation. This can cause not only pain but also neurological symptoms like tingling or dizziness.

Dizziness, in conjunction with neck pain and scalp tingling, raises the possibility of a more complex issue. It could indicate that the vestibular system (responsible for balance) is affected, possibly due to cervical vertigo, where neck problems lead to dizziness. Alternatively, it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a herniated disc in the cervical spine, which can compress nerves and lead to neurological symptoms.

Given the range of potential causes, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A neurologist would be an appropriate specialist to see, as they can evaluate for any neurological conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms. They may perform a thorough examination, including a neurological assessment, and may recommend imaging studies such as an MRI or CT scan to rule out structural issues in the cervical spine or brain.

In summary, your symptoms of neck pain, scalp tingling, and dizziness could stem from muscle tension, nerve irritation, or cervical spine issues. It is crucial to seek medical advice from a neurologist to obtain a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can help prevent the progression of symptoms and improve your quality of life. In the meantime, consider practicing good posture, taking breaks during prolonged activities, and engaging in gentle neck stretches to alleviate some of the tension.

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