What muscles could cause side of neck pain?

Muscles that may contribute to side of neck pain include scalenus anterior, scalenus medius, scalenus posterior, sternocleidomastoid, levator scapulae, splenius cervicis, longissimus cervicis. Trigger points, strains, or weakness in these muscles can refer pain to this area.

Neck

Side of Neck

Q: What causes pain in the side of neck?

Common causes of side of neck pain include scalene muscle tension from breathing dysfunction or stress, sternocleidomastoid trigger points from forward head posture, levator scapulae strain from carrying bags or phone cradling, cervical radiculopathy irritating nerves along the neck, torticollis causing acute one-sided neck spasm. The specific cause depends on the nature of the pain, how it started, and which movements aggravate it.

Pain along the side of the neck involves the scalene muscles, the sternocleidomastoid, and the levator scapulae. These muscles are commonly affected by postural stress, sleeping position, and can refer pain to the head, shoulder, and arm.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of any pain or medical condition.

Common Causes

Scalene muscle tension from breathing dysfunction or stress

Sternocleidomastoid trigger points from forward head posture

Levator scapulae strain from carrying bags or phone cradling

Cervical radiculopathy irritating nerves along the neck

Torticollis causing acute one-sided neck spasm

Muscles in This Area

Neck

scalenus anterior

The anterior scalene anchors from neck vertebrae to first rib, aiding neck flexion and arm elevation. It lifts the first rib during deep breaths, important for overhead athletes. Tension contributes to thoracic outlet issues.

Thoracic outlet syndromeScalene myofascial painCervical radiculopathy

Neck

scalenus medius

The middle scalene runs from cervical transverse processes to first rib, assisting neck lateral flexion and rib elevation. Crucial for breathing during intense workouts and shoulder stability. Often tight in cyclists and throwers.

Scalene syndromeNeurogenic thoracic outlet syndromeCervical strain

Neck

scalenus posterior

The posterior scalene attaches lower cervical vertebrae to second rib, flexing neck and aiding inhalation. Supports posture in endurance sports by stabilizing ribs. Less commonly injured but tightens with chronic coughs.

Scalene myofascial pain syndromeUlnar nerve entrapment mimicCosto-vertebral strain

Neck

sternocleidomastoid

Prominent neck muscle turns/tilts head, flexes neck, aids breathing. Visible in fitness for posture/aesthetics.

Sternocleidomastoid strainTorticollisMyofascial pain syndrome

Neck

levator scapulae

The levator scapulae runs from the upper neck vertebrae to the top of the shoulder blade, lifting the scapula toward the head. It's key for shrugging motions and stabilizing the shoulder during overhead lifts. Gym-goers target it indirectly through shrugs and neck training to prevent shoulder hikes and imbalances.

Levator scapulae syndromeCervical strainMyofascial pain syndrome

Neck

splenius cervicis

Lower splenius extends/rotates cervical spine.

Cervical strain

Neck

longissimus cervicis

This erector spinae muscle spans the neck vertebrae, extending and stabilizing the cervical spine. It keeps the head aligned during upright posture and dynamic movements like cleans. Vital for neck resilience in contact sports and heavy training.

Cervical spondylosisMyofascial neck pain

Stretches That May Help

Scalene tilt stretch

Upper trap stretch

Doorway pec minor stretch

Side neck stretch with rotation

First rib release

Levator scap stretch

Posterior scalene tilt

Rib cage opener

Side bend with arm raise

SCM stretch contralateral tilt

Doorway neck stretch

Seated neck rotation

Levator scapulae stretch

Side neck tilt with chin tuck

Scapular depression stretch

Neck flexion

Side tilt

Cervical extension stretch

Side neck bend

Erector spinae roll

Recommended Exercises

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if neck pain radiates down the arm with numbness, you have progressive weakness in the arm or hand, the neck is severely limited in rotation, or if pain follows a traumatic event.