I have had the same irritated neck/back of head pain and sometimes throat irritation every night for the past 3 years. I have had MRI and Cat Scan but only revealed minor disc bulge which doctor said does not explain my pain. I only have these symptoms at night when sleeping. It occured suddenly out of nowhere. I have tried several different types of pillow but only get temporary relief. I have resorted to taking Bayer when unbearrable. My primary doctor recommended a pain shot on the neck but others warned against it. I have seen several specialist including a rhumetologist and an orthopedist. I have also had 12 months of chiropractic care and 10 sessions of acupuncture but nothing helps. I am constantly waking up at night but I feel fine during the day. Please help!
Since this pain happens only when you are sleeping and its not the pillow, maybe its up to the bed itself or your posture while you are sleeping. I suppose you already tried changing the bed and changing the posture while you're asleep. What kind of work do you do? It might be that the strain on the neck accumulates during the day and than it causes pain in the night. But, whatever is the cause, I think you will have to try and find the right orthopedist who will be able to give definite answer to what is causing this problem.