By definition, a neck strain is not a serious injury. However, the pain that it accompanies, as well as the restriction of mobility, cast doubt on this. In this article, estet-portal.com will talk about how to relieve pain associated with neck muscle strain, as well as for which symptoms it is better not to delay going to the doctor.
Causes of neck strain
The cervical spine has a well designed "design" that protects the vulnerable spinal cord, provides head support and excellent head mobility and range of motion. However, such features of the structure of the cervical spine have their drawbacks, namely, vulnerability to injury.
Triggers for neck strain are easy to identify, and some of them are quite common actions and phenomena:
- too long stay in an uncomfortable position (behind the wheel, in an uncomfortable seat of a minibus, over a computer, in front of the phone, etc.);
- sleep in a position unfavorable for the neck (on too high or hard pillow);
- constantly carrying a heavy bag or other object on one side of the body;
- Injuries of any type that affect the neck (fall head first, whiplash, etc.).
In most cases, neck strains (or other soft tissue strains such as ligaments and tendons) result in neck stiffness and/or shoulder muscle pain. As a rule, among the symptoms of a neck sprain, difficulty and pain are also manifested when turning or rotating the head and neck.
Treatment for sprained muscles and ligaments of the neck
In most cases, minor sprains in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the neck go away on their own (after about a couple of days). However, it is not necessary to endure neck pain even for a couple of days, there are many effective ways to relieve pain and stiffness in the neck. Among them:
- cold application (ice compresses help reduce inflammation in the affected area, thereby speeding up the healing process. Ice compresses are applied during the first 24 hours after injury with an interval of 20 minutes);
- heat exposure (promotes blood flow with nutrients to the affected area and stimulates healing. As a rule, heat is used for healing about a day after the injury (i.e. after ice compresses), when the inflammation subsides);
- Medications (anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen help reduce inflammation, which in turn helps relieve pain; pain relievers can also be used);
- Massage (gentle massage promotes blood flow to the damaged area and speeds up healing).
When you need to see a doctor with a sprained neck
If pain and stiffness persist after two days, or if neck pain is accompanied by arm pain, numbness, or tingling, it is recommended to seek medical attention.
If the symptoms of a neck strain are due to an accident or injury, it is a good idea to have a full physical exam for any serious bodily injury.
Add a comment