Why Have I Been Experiencing Stiffness In My Neck From The Base Of The Head Down My Left Shoulder?

Posted on Wed, 22 Aug 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 22 Aug 2018 Answered on

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 Last reviewed on

Question : I have been experiencing stiffness in my neck from the base of the head down my left shoulder. When rubbing or massaging the neck area, I hear/feel "cracking" or "Crackling". Also, my head is "swimming" and I have some tingling feeling in my cheeks and lips. Potential issue?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (45 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Probably cervical osteoarthritis, follow the advice below.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Your symptoms seem to be related to cervical osteoarthritis. This medical condition is very common at your age.
It is characterized by changes to the joint of the neck.

To confirm the diagnosis and physical exam and an x-ray of the neck is needed.

Some advices that I can give about the treatment are:
- Use anti inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen 400 mg three times a day
- Use anti inflammatory gels such as Voltaren gel
- Physical therapy is recommended

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad