text: why would my upper spine (neck) hurt while doing squats? what could the problem be? it was a cramping pain that lasted around 30 min. and was sore after that there are numerous possibilities   you may have slightly pulled one of the upper back muscles such as the trapezius that run up and into the neck - if you posture is slightly off when you load this can happen   ice the area, use ibuprofen and lay off for a day or two  you may have slightly irritated a disc in your neck  same as above for treatment but if it persists or you have any pins and needles in your shoulders, arms or your neck mobility is reduced seek medical attention  i am assuming you squat with a bar on your neck? when you squat try and have the bar back and down slightly off your neck so the weight distributes across the shoulders - have your arm grip wide to keep it stabilised and make sure or learn to squat with perfect form - head up not down - your upper back should be locked steady - the only rotation is through pelvis, hips and legs   if you still have a problem try to learn to front squat or do one leg squats with dumbells