Neck Strain Symptoms

The cardinal symptom of neck strain is pain. Although you typically have pain after an accident, it is not uncommon for you to be free of discomfort initially, because inflammatory changes may happen slowly. The presence of immediate pain at the time of injury should serve as a red flag that the injuries may be more severe than first thought.

Other symptoms include the inability to perform daily work or activities that you could do before. Be wary of symptoms suggesting nerve problems such as weakness, numbness, tingling, incoordination, and dizziness.

Neck stiffness usually occurs and may radiate into the lower back when severe. Difficulty chewing, swallowing, and breathing occur rarely. You should contact your doctor if you have these symptoms.