Neck pain/neck stiffness

About Neck Pain

Most neck pain is due to either muscle tension or a minor infections. Excessive neck strain of a "kink" in the neck (caused by turning the head too quickly or lying in an awkward position) can cause pain from a muscle spasm.

Minor infections that cause swollen lymph glands in the neck, such as strep throat or Tonsillitis can also produce pain in the neck or throat.

However, in some cases,neck pain can be a sign of more serious infection. Neck pain, combined with a stiff neck (where a child cannot bend her neck forward or backward)can be a sign of meningitis.

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is one of the most-feared infectious illnesses in children, but fortunately it is a rare disease! Meningitis is the swelling of the meninges (the membrane that surrounds the brain and the spine)and is caused by either a bacterial or viral infection. However, the bacterial version of meningitis is the more dangerous of the two infections and can be life-threatening if the child is not treated quickly. 

When to seek medical advice

See the doctor immediately or call 911 if:

Your child has any of the following signs of meningitis:

• A skin rash with little purplish or tiny bright red spots that do not fade when you press them. Video: A simple test for a serious skin rash 
• A fever and neck pain or a stiff neck or back. Video: Example of a child with a stiff neck 
• Neck pain or stiffness and vomiting 
• Your child is less active and looks weakened. This may show itself as sleepiness, listlessness, increased tiredness, irritability or confusion.