Throbbing neck pain. right side of the neck. sudden onset. what could this be?

Tmj muscle pain: Muscle spasm. Try Motrin for pain. Another option is tmj. A way to tell is to open and close the jaw with a finger placed in the TMJ socket which is roughly the pocket created when one opens the mouth and places a finger directly in front of the ear canal right at the level of the sideburns. Softer foods, warm compresses and Motrin should help. Avoid gum chewing. If persists see md.

Anti-inflammatory: Sharp neck pain usually comes from a degenerative joint or disc in the neck. Sometimes it's from a muscle strain or sprain. Early treatment options include a short course of nsaids (advil, aleve), gentle massage, moist heat, and focusing on posture. If pain lasts greater than 2 weeks see your physician.