How To Relieve Neck Pain

Are you experiencing any tightness, stiffness, soreness, or radiating pain in the neck?

Do you stare in front of a computer or your smartphone most of the time? Your neck pain might be something you should pay more attention to.

Your cervical spine (neck) is the link between nerves, bones, and joints. It supports the weight of your head, so it’s highly susceptible to pain, joint restrictions, and reduced range motion.

Chronic neck pain occurs at any age but is more common in adults. About 15% of American adults experience this condition that lasts at least one full day.

Neck pain is usually caused by inflammation or irritation of the ligaments, joints, and muscles.  It can be mild and easy to ignore, but it could become severe and can be associated with other facial and skin conditions.

Keep reading to know more about managing neck pain.

Symptoms of Neck Pain

These are the most common symptoms of neck pain:

• Spasms, soreness, and tightness of neck muscles
• Reduced head mobility
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Sharp pain
• Radiating pain from the neck to the shoulders, arms, and fingers.
• Problems lifting or gripping objects

Causes

• Accidents or injury
• Degenerative disc disease
• Poor posture
• Muscle strain
• Nerve compression
• Awkward sleeping position.
• Wear and tear of neck joints due to old age
• Nerve compression due to disc injuries, such as herniated or bulged discs.
• Repetitive motions
• Whiplash and other auto accident injuries.
• Meningitis, arthritis, cancer, spinal infections, spinal cord compression, tumors, and other serious health conditions.

For detailed information about the causes of neck pain, read: 8 Causes of Neck Pain

Neck Pain Relief At Home

Here’s how to relieve neck pain, including minor neck stiffness:

• To reduce nerve inflammation, apply ice packs. After that, apply heat with a heating pad, hot compress, or take a hot shower.
• Opt for over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
• Take a break from any sport, heavy lifting, or activities that may aggravate your symptoms. Slowly resume normal activities as your symptoms improve.
• Gently stretch your neck every day. Slowly move your head side to side and up and down.
• Practice good posture. To avoid chronic pain, keep your computer at eye level when working.
• Avoid placing your phone between your neck & shoulder.
• Take frequent breaks while driving, or when using your smartphone. Don’t keep your neck bent forward too long.
• Change your position frequently. Avoid sitting or standing in the same position for too many hours.
• A gentle neck massage is recommended, especially in the sore or painful areas of the neck.
• Sleep on a firm mattress with no pillow or with a special neck pillow.
• Pay attention to your sleep positions. You should sleep on your back or side. You will often find yourself twisting your head for hours if you lie on your stomach.
• To relieve pain, ask your doctor about a soft neck collar. Your doctor must approve you using a neck brace, collar or other neck support. They can make your symptoms worse if not properly used.

When To See A Doctor For Neck Pain

Consult your doctor if symptoms last more than one week and if you have other health issues. Seek medical attention immediately if you have suffered neck pain from an accident, fall, or other injuries.

Your doctor will provide medical advice and personalized treatment depending on your condition. Surgery rarely happens, unless severe issues arise.

Chiropractic Care and Physical Therapy

Healthcare professionals and researchers also recommend chronic neck pain patients to visit a chiropractor and/or a physical therapist.

Chiropractic adjustments, mobilization, and exercises can all help relieve tension in the neck muscles. This procedure can vastly improve your condition without invasive treatments.

If you’ve been in an accident, you’re also highly advised to seek chiropractic care within 72 hours of the accident.

Cornerstone Family Chiropractic is here to help with all your chiropractic needs. We are a trusted and highly preferred chiropractic facility in Prescott, AZ. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call us today!

Have questions about neck pain? Ask us in the comments section below and we’ll be happy to answer them.