It can be your body adding to lower c-spine area due to inflammation . Usually increases when not using correct posture and keep looking down ,leaning forward. Pain is a big cause as “we “don’t force our posture toward correct place when we are hurting. Afterwards it is a slippery slope .

go to a good speacalist about that you dont want any clown messing around with your neck

My impression is it my be like a benign lump that can be removed and is pressing on nerves and muscles. But the best thing is talk to your doctor. Keep me updated. Good Luck

Hang in there John, I hope you are one of the few who are relieved of pain and problems

Yes it start with stiffness in my neck after 5 years my neck was completely bend forward to were my chin was presses onto my chest a12 hour operation was necessary to lift my head up my neck was basically screwed back onto my body 2 tatanium pins and 12 screws keep my head upright no movements ever again lives like this for last 15 years