Neck pain is common. Some more serious causes of neck pain may require medical care. The fast onset of severe headache, with a very stiff neck and fever, may be caused by meningitis. Neck pain occurring with chest pain and pain in the jaw may signify heart attack. An injury that causes spinal cord damage may include loss of feeling or movement in the arms. These conditions require immediate medical care.Less severe neck pain has many causes. A minor strain or accident can cause severe pain