SymptomsBack, joints and limbs

Neck pain: which doctor should I see?

Neck pain often follows long hours at a screen, an awkward sleeping position or a sudden movement. Sometimes it spreads to the shoulder, the arm or the head. Here you will learn what may be behind it, when it is urgent and which specialist to see.

Book a specialist

When it is urgent

The pain is severe after a blow, a fall or a road accident.
Your arms or legs suddenly become numb or weak, your hands become clumsy, your walking unsteady, or you leak urine or stools.
You have a rash that does not fade when pressed, or your neck is stiff and you have a fever, a severe headache or eye pain in bright light.
You have a sudden, very severe headache, difficulty speaking or swallowing, a sudden change in vision, unsteadiness or confusion.
Neck or jaw pain with chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath, nausea or sweating.

With these signs, seek emergency help — call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Call 112

What it may mean

Muscle tension — from an awkward posture, long hours at a computer or stress.
Wear of the neck vertebrae — stiffness, clicking when you move and pain that is worse in the morning.
A herniated disc or a trapped nerve — the pain spreads to the shoulder and arm, sometimes with numb fingers.
An injury — for example a sudden stop in a car or a fall.

Which specialist

Neurologist in Sofia

How to prepare for the visit

Note when the pain started, whether it spreads to the arm and which movements make it worse. Bring any X-rays and earlier test results, and a list of the medicines you take.

A specialist visit paid by НЗОК (NHIF) usually needs a referral from your GP; a referral is valid for 30 days. A paid visit is possible without one.

Frequently asked questions

Does changing my pillow help?

A comfortable sleeping position sometimes eases the pain, but it does not treat the cause. If the pain does not pass, see a doctor.

Why are my fingers numb?

It may be a sign that a nerve in the neck is pressed. The doctor will judge after the examination.

Neurologist or orthopaedist?

With numbness, weakness or pain that spreads to the arm, the first specialist is usually a neurologist. After an injury or with limited movement, an orthopaedist.

This information does not replace a visit to a doctor.