Problems when "flexing" left side of neck

I've had quite a few problems with left side of neck with no answers from drs. It all started with pain down into my arm, then pain in my neck especially eight beside throat on that side, as well pain that comes and goes in my ear and a clicking sensation when i swallow.
My strangest thing that im hoping someone can give answers to is when I "flex" my neck( where you tense neck up and muscles stick out on sides) the left side looks as if it's frozen up or something. Please someone if you've experienced this let me know!

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

While the clicking sensation in the ear is commonly related to issues with TMJ (Temporo-mandibular Joint/ Jaw Joint); the pain on the left side of the neck region could be related to spinal postural defects, injuries/ trauma, degenerations, growths/ masses, inflammations, neuro-muscular issues, issues with any of the internal neck structures such as the food pipe/ wind pipe etc, referred pain from other organs located in the chest. Well, without a clinical evaluation, it would be difficult to come to a conclusive diagnosis. It would be best to get this evaluated by an internist initially (preferably at a university/ teaching hospital) and depending on the cause diagnosed/ suspected, it can be managed accordingly or specialist care may be sought.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!