Neck pain, also known as cervicalgia, is a common problem, with two-thirds of the population having neck pain at some point in their lives. Neck pain, although felt in the neck, can be caused by numerous other spinal problems. Neck pain may arise due to muscular tightness in both the neck and upper back, or pinching of the nerves emanating from the cervical vertebrae. Joint disruption in the neck creates pain, as does joint disruption in the upper back. The head is supported by the lower neck and upper back, and it is these areas that commonly cause neck pain. The top three joints in the neck allow for most movement of the neck and head. The lower joints in the neck and those of the upper back create a supportive structure for the head to sit on. If this support system is affected adversely, then the muscles in the area will tighten, leading to neck pain. Neck pain affects about 5% of the global population as of 2010. Differential diagnosis Neck pain may come from any of the structures in the neck including: vascular, nerve, airway, digestive, and musculature / skeletal, or be referred from other areas of the body. Major and severe causes of neck pain (roughly in order of severity) include: Carotid artery dissection Referred pain from acute coronary syndrome Head and neck cancer Infections, including: Meningitis of several types including sudden onset of severe neck or back pain particularly in teens and young adults which may be fatal if not treated quickly Retropharyngeal abscess Epiglottitis Spinal disc herniation – protruding or bulging discs, or if severe prolapse. Spondylosis - degenerative arthritis and osteophytes Spinal stenosis – a narrowing of the spinal canal More common and lesser neck pain causes include: Stress – physical and emotional stresses Prolonged postures – many people fall asleep on sofas and chairs and wake up with sore necks. Minor injuries and falls – car accidents, sporting events, and day to day injuries that are really minor. Referred pain – mostly from upper back problems Over-use – muscular strain is one of the most common causes Whiplash Pinched nerve Although the causes are numerous, most are easily rectified by either professional help or using self help advice and techniques. More causes can include: poor sleeping posture, torticollis, head injury, rheumatoid arthritis, Carotidynia, congenital cervical rib, mononucleosis, rubella, certain cancers, ankylosing spondylitis, cervical