What is a common cause of pain only in the neck region (cervicalgia)?

A common cause of pain specifically in the neck region, known as cervicalgia, can indeed arise from a muscle tear in the neck area. Muscle tears, or strains, typically occur due to overexertion, poor posture, or sudden movements that can stretch or tear the muscle fibers in the cervical region. This damage can lead to localized pain, tightness, and stiffness in the neck, which are hallmark symptoms of cervicalgia.

It’s important to note that while herniated disks, osteoarthritis, and infections can also lead to neck pain, they are often associated with additional symptoms or broader areas of discomfort. For example, a herniated disk may cause radiating pain into the arms or numbness due to nerve compression. Osteoarthritis usually involves joint degeneration and may result in more generalized pain and stiffness rather than pure cervicalgia. Infections might present with systemic symptoms like fever or malaise, indicating a more serious condition than localized muscle strain.