Brief Answer:
Cause could be
nerve root compression.
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX
Thanks for your query.
What you are experiencing is called 'Radiculopathy'. It basically suggests entrapment of a nerve root in your
cervical spine in its origin or course.
It can be caused by lifting weights, episodes of over-exertion during work, long hours on computer, inappropriate posture while sleeping or sitting, lack of proper nutrition-exercises-rest-recreation or any other relevant past medical history.
If it has been persistent or even increasing since few days, you need to visit your orthopaedician. Depending upon the clinical findings they might ask you to get an
MRI done, which shall help establish a diagnosis and in turn allow one to formulate a treatment plan.
Let me assure you that this is temporary and self limiting illness that usually the treatment goes in following lines: rest, lifestyle modifications (namely- avoiding pillow while sleeping, following a healthy
diet plan, maintaining suitable posture while working on computer/driving, avoiding any activity that strikes neck discomfort), medications (that your physician prescribes) and most important
physiotherapy ( in form of neck exercises, cervical traction if required along with local ultrasonics).
In case the pain is not adequately relieved with the present treatment then you may need oral muscle relaxants and methylcobalamnin supplements for proper relief.
I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query.
Take care