[Update on current care guidelines. Neck pain].

Neck pain is very common. Age, female gender, obesity, and several physical and psychological work related factors increase the risk while physical activity appears to decrease it. Non-specific neck pain is most common but serious or specific illness must be ruled out and neural compression identified. Patients are encouraged to remain active and improve their ergonomics. Acute neck pain often disappears without any special treatment. Paracetamol is the primary pain medication. Multidisciplinary treatment is recommended if disabling pain has lasted for two months, and intensive muscle exercises in chronic neck pain. Progressive muscle weakness and myelopathy indicate a surgical assessment.