Not all neck and shoulder pains need to be examined, but only those that do need to be seen by a doctor (see the general description and preparation for your visit) and do not resolve on their own should be seen by a specialist in hospital. During the visit, you should describe your symptoms in detail and accurately to the doctor, who should examine you accordingly and then prescribe the appropriate tests according to his or her judgement. Generally speaking, from an orthopaedic perspective, if there is no clear indication of nerve damage, a cervical spine X-ray is usually prescribed first. If the X-ray reveals problems, further CT plain, CT 3D scan reconstruction, MRI, or ultrasound will be prescribed, as well as the appropriate laboratory tests if infection or tumour is suspected.