Chiropractor In Rockville Md | Minor Neck Pain: What It Is And What You Can Do

Minor neck pain is extremely annoying

Minor neck pain is extremely annoying. Fortunately, most pain can be effectively treated. Read on to learn about neck pain and how to relieve it.

Symptoms of Neck Pain

"Pain. It may be dull or sharp, and may worsen when you move or stretch. There may also be pain in your shoulders and back.

"Stiffness. You may have difficulty or feel resistance with motion or stretching that makes regular tasks more difficult.

"Weakness. You may feel that you can't or don't want to move. This may also result from a serious issue, such as muscle or nerve damage. Be sure to find out what's causing yours.

If you have symptoms such as coolness, numbness, shooting pain, difficulty swallowing, or dizziness, you may have a serious condition. Contact your doctor immediately. (Refer to the article titled Severe Neck Pain: What It Is and What You Must Do.)

Causes of Neck Pain

Neck pain is caused by a variety of factors:

"Muscle strain. This primarily results from bad posture, such as hunching over a computer, and repetitive actions such as grinding your teeth at night. The muscles in the back of your neck become fatigued and strained.

"Worn down joints. Over time, your neck joints can wear down and tear. This result in osteoarthritis, in which the cushioning cartilage around the joints breaks down. The joints have a harder time moving, and the resulting stiffness causes pain.

"Bone or joint abnormalities. Occasionally, the soft tissues in your neck (muscles, ligaments, and nerves) can suffer abnormal wear and tear. This damage is usually a result of a sudden injury or ongoing stress and strain.

Treatment of Pains in the Neck

Neck pain resulting from minor muscle strains can usually be treated at home. Here are some simple ways to help yourself get better.

"Rest. Use your neck as little as possible for two or three days. Then begin gentle exercises to restore range of motion and encourage healing.

"Ice and heat. First, use ice for 15 to 20 minutes every hour. (Don't apply it directly to your skin.) Wait a week before using heat to avoid increased swelling and pain.

"Elevation. While you're resting, use pillows to keep your neck above your heart in a comfortable position. This reduces swelling and pain.

Future Care of Neck Pain

Here are some easy ways to ensure your neck stays strong and healthy.

"Watch your posture. Whether you're sitting or standing, practice keeping your head centered over your spine. This lets gravity work with you, so there's less unnecessary strain on your muscles.

"Stretch frequently. Whether you work at a desk or drive long distances, short stretch breaks can be invaluable. It's best to stand, but you can also do them while you're sitting.

"Sleep on your side or back. Sleeping on your stomach puts stress on your neck for an extended period of time. Be sure your pillow comfortably supports your neck's natural curve.

Ongoing neck pain is a real nuisance. Fortunately, you can do something about it. With proper treatment and ongoing care, you can become pain free and active once again.

by: Chris Tomshack

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