If any part of the neck is strained or injured, a stiff neck can occur. A stiff neck refers to discomfort, pain, or soreness in your neck that makes it difficult to move or turn your head. 

• Strains or sprains: sleeping in awkward positions, working at your desk, or stress can cause the muscles in your neck to strain, resulting in a stiff and painful neck.
• Trauma: injury from sports, accidents, or falls can cause neck injuries such as whiplash, stiff neck, and others.
• Arthritis: arthritis is a medical condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints. It can happen anywhere in the body. Arthritis in the neck is known as cervical spondylosis. 
• Meningitis: a serious bacterial infection that results in inflammation of the meninges (protective covering of the brain and spinal cord). A stiff neck is one of the symptoms of meningitis. If you suspect that you have meningitis, seek medical advice immediately. 
• Nerve compression: bone spurs or herniated/slipped discs can compress the nerves in your neck and back, causing pain. 

• Neck pain or discomfort
• Difficulty moving your neck or head
• Headache
• Shoulder pain
• Neck muscle spasms
• Numbness or tingling in your arms or hands
• Fatigue
• Reduced range of motion in your neck

If you notice any of the symptoms, make an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

The pain may also radiate to other areas of your body, such as your shoulders or upper back. The severity of the pain varies depending on the underlying cause of your stiff neck.

• Bad posture: individuals who spend long periods sitting at a desk, using a computer or phone, or driving may be more susceptible to developing a stiff neck.
• Dehydration: dehydration can contribute to the symptoms of a stiff neck.
• Stress: individuals who are more prone to stress are at a higher risk of developing a stiff neck. 

• Physical examination: your orthopaedist will ask you about your symptoms and medical history, followed by a physical examination to check your range of motion, reflexes, and neck strength. 
• Imaging tests: in some cases, you may be required to get imaging tests done such as x-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to rule out any underlying conditions.

• Rest: rest the affected area.
• Medications: pain relievers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be prescribed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
• Physiotherapy: physiotherapy involves the use of gentle and therapeutic exercises to strengthen your neck and increase your range of motion.
• Surgery: in rare cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerves in your back. This will be considered if other treatment methods have not been successful.