The neck is made up of vertebrae that lengthen from the skull to the upper torso. Cervical discs ingest shock between the bones. Bones, ligaments and muscles of the neck supports the head and allow movement. Any swelling, abnormalities or trauma may cause neck pain and stiffness.
Many are experiencing neck pain occasionally. In several cases, due to poor posture or overuse causes pain in the neck. It is also sometimes caused by an injury from a fall or whiplash.
Usually, it is not a serious condition and can be soothed within few days. If neck pain continues for more than a week and accompanied by other symptoms, kindly seek for medical attention immediately.
Causes of Neck Pain
Variety of reasons can cause neck pain. It is usually due to the activities and behaviors such as the following:
- poor posture
- sleeping with your neck in a bad position
- working at a desk for too long without changing position
- jerking the neck during exercise
In some instances, neck pain occurs due to:
- Congenital abnormalities
- Infections
- Abscess
- Tumors
- Cancer of the spine
Treat Neck Pain
The doctor will perform a physical examination and medical histories are taken. Treatment may vary depending on the diagnosis. The person suffering from neck pain may undergo one or more of the following imaging studies and tests to determine the cause of the neck pain:
- blood tests
- X-rays
- CT scans
- MRI scans
- electromyography, which allows the doctor to check the health of the muscles
- a lumbar puncture or a spinal tap
Depending on the consequences, the doctor may refer a specialist. Handling neck pain may include:
- pain medication
- corticosteroid injections
- muscle relaxants
- ice and heat therapy
- traction
- surgery
- exercise, stretching, and physical therapy
- a neck collar
- antibiotics (if having an infection)
- hospital treatment
There are also available alternative therapies such as:
- massage
- chiropractic
- acupuncture
- transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
Lessen Neck Pain at Home
Take these modest steps to relieve minor neck pain or stiffness.
- Administer ice for the first few days. After that, take a hot shower.
- Take OTC pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Take a few days off from sports, activities and heavy lifting that aggravate your
- Exercise your neck daily
- Use good posture.
- Prevent cradling the phone between neck and shoulder.
- Change your position frequently
- Get a mild neck massage.
- Use a distinct neck pillow for sleeping.