Q. What is the cause for constant neck and back pain associated with neck stiffness?

Hello doctor,

I have chronic neck and back pain that can cause either severe neck stiffness or sharp pain. Most of the pain seems to originate in the front of the neck (SCM muscle) or the cervical spine area. Pain radiates to mid-back and causes spasms of my shoulder blades. Lots of popping when turning my head. This also flares up every couple or few months to the point of being unbearable and requiring a visit to urgent care. Lots of other symptoms some of which include, profuse night sweats, sweating during the day for no reason (profuse), weakness in shoulders and arms (very hard to play tennis anymore), occasional stiffness in ribs, tightness in chest, jaw pain and weakness, forehead numbness, random movement of limbs during day but usually at night (kind of like little seizures but has not been diagnosed) and general neck swelling (neck looks big). I know it is a lot of symptoms, but it is so frustrating. I have a copy of a cervical MRI with me. Curious to know if these symptoms stand out as anything in particular. Working with doctor's now, but I am mentally and emotionally drained as I have been dealing with this for years with no answer, and it is difficult for the family to understand. Being an athlete could not compete in college anymore due to this. My body could not perform anymore.