Neck and shoulder pain: differentiating cervical spine pathology from shoulder pathology

Abstract

Problems of the cervical spine and shoulder frequently have very similar presentations and can be difficult to differentiate. However, with a careful history, physical exam, imaging studies, and judicious use of diagnostic injections, the true source of a patient's symptoms can be deciphered and treated. Cervical spondylosis not only causes pain in the neck and shoulder area, but can also cause radiating pain in the arm and forearm that can be confused with rotator cuff pathology, nerve compression in the shoulder area, or brachial neuritis.