Neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors. Poor posture, stress, sleeping in an awkward position, and sitting or working at a desk for long periods are some of the common causes of neck pain. Other causes include degenerative diseases, whiplash, or even strenuous activities like heavy lifting or sports.
It’s important to know the cause of neck pain in order to find the best treatment for relief. Let’s dive into the causes of neck pain:
Contents
Poor posture
Poor posture is one of the most common causes of neck pain. Slouching can put additional strain on the muscles and ligaments in your neck, compressing the adjoining structures and causing tightness, fatigue, and pain. Other postural problems that can cause neck pain include reading in bed with your head propped up on several pillows, hunching over a computer, or looking down at your phone for extended periods of time.
These activities cause tension and strain in the muscles that support the spine and control its movements. Prolonged poor posture can also lead to imbalances in these muscles. If this happens, you may start to experience chronic neck pain as some muscle groups become tight while others become weak from disuse. Stress and anxiety can also contribute to poor posture by causing you to tense unwanted muscles which put extra stress on your joints leading to discomfort.
Correcting poor posture is important for both immediate relief from neck pain as well as for long-term prevention measures. Strengthening exercises that focus on the deep stabilizing muscles (like the middle trapezius) which help support your spine will ease the pressure off joints which may be inflamed from associated postural issues – leading to much more comfortable daily movements!
Muscle strain
Muscle strain is one of the most common causes of neck pain. The muscles and tendons in the neck can become overworked or strained from activities such as sleeping in an awkward position, staying hunched over at a computer for extended periods of time, or having poor posture when standing or walking.
Neck pain caused by muscle strain can range from dull to sharp pain and may get worse with activity. In some cases, muscle strain may be accompanied by tightness or soreness that gets worse with movement or pressure. Other times, the tension may feel more like a burning sensation. Pain can also spread to the shoulders, arms, and face.
To reduce muscle strain-related pain, physical therapy and stretching exercises are usually recommended along with lifestyle modifications like wearing ergonomic masks to improve posture while sitting at a desk or using a better pillow for sleeping at night. Taking anti-inflammatory medications may also help relieve tension.
Whiplash
Whiplash is an acute traumatic neck injury commonly resulting from a motor vehicle accident or sudden impact. This type of neck pain is characterized by a force that flexes and then quickly extends the cervical spine (neck), forcing it beyond its normal range of motion. The sharp movement causes tissue tearing, muscle spasms, and excessive stress on bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck.
Common symptoms of whiplash may include:
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the neck
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Muscle spasms
- Tenderness or pain in the shoulder area
- Numbness, tingling, and burning sensations radiate down the arms to the hands
- Headaches originating at the base of your head
Self-care measures such as rest and over-the-counter medication may provide temporary relief from mild cases of whiplash. However, more serious cases may require physical therapy, massage therapy, traction treatment, or corticosteroid injections before lasting improvement is achieved. Consult your doctor if you feel like you need medical treatment for your whiplash injury.
Herniated disc
The most common cause of neck pain is a herniated disc or bulging disc. This occurs when one of the discs between your vertebrae, which act as shock absorbers for your spine, is pulled outwards, causing it to press on a nerve in the spine or the spinal cord itself. A herniated disc can cause pain from the neck down to one or both arms and may be associated with tingling and numbness in those extremities. It can also cause problems with coordination and balance.
Surgery may be needed to correct a herniated disc if it does not respond to more conservative treatments like physical therapy and lifestyle changes.
Non-Invasive Treatments
Suffering from neck pain can be quite a debilitating experience. Fortunately, there are many non-invasive treatments that can provide your neck with the relief it needs. From physical therapy to stretching exercises, there are many options to choose from.
In this article, we will look at the different types of non-invasive treatments available and which ones are the most effective at providing neck pain relief:
Physical therapy
Physical therapy is an important part of many non-invasive treatments for neck pain relief. A physical therapist can teach you how to strengthen and stretch the neck muscles and ligaments, improve posture and develop better overall body mechanics. The therapist may also use specialized techniques such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Physical therapists understand the intricacies of movement and can offer neck exercises that help maintain strength and flexibility in the affected area. They will also instruct you on postural exercises so your neck can adapt to any activity, such as standing for long periods or sleeping properly throughout the night, you plan to perform. You may be asked to complete exercises at home in addition to those performed in their office.
Other treatments physical therapists use are joint mobilization and traction, which involve applying gentle pressure on the cervical spine joints to increase flexibility. Heat or cold therapy (whichever is appropriate) is also prescribed after activities that cause muscle spasms or strain in order to promote healing in the area. If a herniated disc or other medical condition is detected by X-rays, a physical therapist will create a customized rehab program tailored specifically to your needs.
Finally, rehabilitation programs commonly include relaxation techniques such as biofeedback which helps patients recognize how certain activities influence pain levels and functions associated with their condition; it looks at body chemistry rather than anatomy itself. Patients learn how they can use mental imagery, deep breathing exercises, releasing muscle tension, and other strategies so they can become more attentive towards disturbances associated with their condition before these worsen into major episodes of discomfort and distress.
Massage therapy
For neck pain, massage therapy can be an excellent method of providing relief while avoiding invasive treatments. Massage therapy helps relax the muscles, improve circulation and break up adhesions that may cause pain. The massage can help reduce inflammation and muscle tension, thus improving the range of motion in the neck and shoulders.
When it comes to massage therapy for neck pain, the most common technique is the Swedish massage. This type of massage involves rhythmic strokes done with either pressure or friction to promote relaxation and reduce discomfort. For more intense areas that need targeted attention, deep tissue massage may be used where specific areas are worked using more pressure on deeper tissue layers. Trigger point therapy can also be useful in breaking down painful knots that develop in your muscles from postural stress and overuse.
Some people also find tremendous benefits from traditional Chinese acupuncture treatments for neck pain relief as an alternative to over-the-counter medications and medical interventions. Acupuncture is part of a system called Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which is designed to balance the body’s energy through precise needle placement along meridians or pathways in the body where energy flows. Through stimulation along these pathways, acupuncture can provide relief from chronic conditions such as shoulder tension, neck stiffness, and pain associated with whiplash injuries or poor posture habits.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that has been practiced for thousands of years. The technique is believed to restore overall balance to the body by stimulating pressure points and releasing energy blockages in the body.
To perform acupuncture, your therapist will use very thin needles that are inserted along specific pathways, or meridians, in the body. The needles are generally left in place for 10-30 minutes while time is taken to elicit a response from the affected area. Many people experience relaxation during an acupuncture session and some may experience an enhanced sense of well-being following treatment.
Non-invasive treatments such as acupuncture can provide relief from neck pain due to tension and muscle spasms associated with poor posture, repetitive motions, physical trauma, or strain from overexertion. Acupuncture can also be helpful for those suffering from migraine headaches, and chronic pain such as fibromyalgia, insomnia, or anxiety. Additionally, it can be used proactively as preventive care to promote overall health and wellness.
While results may vary depending on the individual and condition being treated, many people report feeling relief after one or two treatments when using acupuncture for neck pain concerns. Because this treatment is non-invasive it can be performed comfortably in a therapist’s office with minimal downtime needed afterward; however, some individuals may feel soreness at needle sites which should dissipate shortly after leaving your appointment.
Chiropractic care
Chiropractic care is a safe, drug-free, and non-invasive method to treat neck pain. It has a broad range of benefits for treating neck pain and other musculoskeletal conditions. Chiropractic care focuses on the structures of the body, specifically the spine, and its ability to facilitate healing. A chiropractor can perform physical examinations to identify any misalignments in your spine or the cervical region that may be causing neck pain.
Chiropractic treatments typically begin with a spinal adjustment to restore alignment in the spine and ease pressure on nerves and muscles in the affected area. The chiropractor may also employ mobilization techniques to provide increased mobility in restricted joints, exercises or stretches to relieve muscle tension and improve posture, ice or heat therapy to reduce inflammation or swelling, ultrasound treatments for deep penetration of heat into muscles, e-stim treatments for relaxing tight muscles, trigger point therapy for relieving chronic muscle contraction caused by inflammation around nerve endings within muscles.
Chiropractors can also provide advice on lifestyle changes that can help improve your overall health and well-being including good nutrition, proper sleeping patterns as well as posture correction both at home (e.g., sitting properly at your desk) as well as when performing certain activities such as:
- Lifting/carrying objects in certain ways
- Not straining yourself further when trying full your daily tasks.
Medication
When it comes to neck pain relief, medication can be a great option for short-term relief. Oftentimes, your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter or prescription medications to treat the symptoms.
Pain medications and muscle relaxants can be effective in reducing neck pain, while anti-inflammatories can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Learn more about the different kinds of medications available to help with neck pain relief:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of medications commonly prescribed for neck pain relief. These drugs reduce inflammation and can reduce the pain and discomfort associated with neck pain. Popular over-the-counter NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), naproxen sodium (Aleve), and aspirin.
Examples of prescription NSAIDs include celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac, meloxicam, ketorolac, and indomethacin.
NSAIDs can be used to treat acute neck pain episodes or to manage chronic conditions such as herniated discs or degenerative disc disorders. Depending on the origin of your neck pain, NSAID medications may not always be effective; they work best if the cause is inflammation related.
When taking NSAIDs it’s important to weigh potential benefits against possible risks and side effects such as stomach upset or kidney damage when taken in high doses or for a prolonged period of time. People who take blood thinners should avoid taking ibuprofen and related agents due to potential interactions with these medicines that could increase their effectiveness or increase the risk of bleeding. Talk to your doctor before starting an over-the-counter medication in order to determine if this type of treatment is safe for you given your overall health status.
Muscle relaxants
Muscle relaxants, also known as muscle relaxers, are medications that help to reduce tension and spasm caused by neck pain and other muscle disorders. Misuse of muscle relaxants can lead to side effects. For this reason, these drugs should generally only be used for short-term treatment of acute neck pain.
Common types of muscle relaxants used to treat neck pain are carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine, dantrolene sodium, metaxalone, and tizanidine hydrochloride.
- Carisoprodol is a short-acting drug that may provide the most effective relief but may also be habit-forming.
- Cyclobenzaprine is a more commonly prescribed drug that is usually taken three times a day and will start working within three days. It has very few side effects, but again should be used according to the doctor’s instructions as it can be habit-forming if used over long periods of time.
- Dantrolene sodium works mainly by inhibiting nerve signals that cause involuntary contraction of muscles in the body, which makes it effective in treating spasms related to neck pain disorders such as torticollis or chronic neck spasms. Side effects include drowsiness and vomiting; however, the drug’s use for this purpose is limited due to its strength when compared with newer medications on the market such as metaxalone or tizanidine hydrochloride which are considered safer options with much fewer side effects than dantrolene sodium.
- Metaxalone is an intermediate-acting muscle relaxant that reduces pain related to impaired movement in muscles due to injury or other illnesses affecting movement control such as musculoskeletal conditions like torticollis or fibromyalgia. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, headache, and fatigue while serious problems resulting from long-term use may include liver damage or seizures if taken over a prolonged period without medical supervision; therefore its use should be closely monitored by the prescribing physician if required for long term relief from chronic neck pain conditions.
- The final option discussed here is tizanidine hydrochloride which appears promising in reducing associated discomfort with multiple medical conditions including neck problems but must still be monitored under close doctor’s guidance since it can create adverse reactions if taken incorrectly or over long time frames without a doctor’s approval first being sought before administration begins.
Opioids
Opioids are strong medications that are prescribed to treat moderate-to-severe neck pain. While opioids, such as Codeine, Fentanyl, and Oxycodone, can provide effective pain relief, they can also be highly addictive. Therefore, opioids should only be used for short-term pain if possible.
Opioids bind to specific chemical sites in the brain and spinal cord called opiate receptors. This creates a sensation of dulling or numbing the pain. They work by blocking the transmission of particular nerve signals which reduce inflammation and help control severe acute pain after surgery or an injury.
The most common side effects of taking opioids include drowsiness, constipation, blurred vision, dizziness, and nausea. It’s important to talk to your doctor about potential side effects before taking any opioid medications for your neck pain. Also bear in mind that certain medications such as sleeping pills or tranquilizers can increase their effect when taken with opioids and could potentially increase the chances of addiction.
Due to their potential for abuse or even accidental overdose, opioids should usually only be taken when other treatments have failed and treatment time should not exceed 90 days if possible. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking opioid medications for neck pain relief and report any adverse side effects immediately.
Surgery
Surgery is an option for some people who are looking for neck pain relief, but it’s usually seen as a last resort. Surgery can be invasive and risky, so it should be discussed with a doctor and other specialists before making any decisions. However, surgery can often be successful for those who are suffering from chronic or severe neck pain and is sometimes the best way to achieve long-term relief.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of surgery for neck pain relief:
Cervical fusion
Cervical fusion is a type of surgery used to correct instability and pain in the neck, usually caused by an injury or degenerative condition. During the procedure, two or more vertebrae in the cervical spine are fused together with an implant, such as a plate and screws. This creates a solid bond between them and restricts movement, which can reduce or eliminate neck pain. It may also be used to treat the narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis). It is likely that you will need to stay in the hospital for this procedure.
Cervical fusion surgery will go through three phases: preparation, fusion, and recovery. During preparation, your surgeon will make incisions in your neck to gain access to your spine and remove any damaged parts of the vertebrae before reconstructing it with medical implants like screws and plates. Once your spine is stabilized, existing damaged disc material should be replaced with bone grafts in order to facilitate healing throughout the area. Afterward, a cast or brace may be used during recovery periods for extra support as you complete rehabilitation exercises and restore strength back to your muscles.
With proper care following surgery, patients often experience lasting relief from neck pain associated with these conditions without further recurrent injury or discomfort. However, surgery does not always guarantee complete resolution of all symptoms so it is best discussed with a healthcare provider beforehand.
Cervical disc replacement
Cervical disc replacement surgery is sometimes used to relieve neck pain caused by a worn or damaged intervertebral disc. During this procedure, the surgeon will replace the damaged disc with an artificial one, creating space in the spine and reducing neck pain.
Usually, the artificial disc is made of metal and plastic materials. Depending on their condition and other complicating factors such as age, some patients may opt to have just one level replaced while others may need multiple levels replaced. In most cases, once a replacement disc is implanted it stays in place permanently. However, doctors may opt to remove the device if necessary in some cases.
There are several benefits to replacing a worn or damaged cervical disc with an artificial one, including:
- Improved range of motion and stability in the affected area of the neck
- Reduced nerve compression symptoms and pain relief from herniated discs.
Depending on how severe your condition is you may be eligible for cervical disc replacement surgery through your health insurance provider. Talk to your doctor about whether this treatment could work for you before making a decision about what type of treatment would be best for you.
Cervical laminectomy
Cervical laminectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing parts of the lamina, which is part of the vertebra from the neck. This helps increase the amount of space in the spinal canal and relieves pressure on nerves and other tissues. This can allow for improved nerve function and to reduce pain.
Generally, a cervical laminectomy is used to treat conditions such as chronic neck pain caused by a herniated disk or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine). During surgery, your surgeon will remove part of the bone in your neck (the lamina) to enlarge the spinal canal and create more room for affected nerves traveling through this area. Your surgeon will use precision tools during surgery to avoid damaging nearby healthy tissues or nerve roots.
In some cases, patients may require decompression as well, where soft tissues around the spine are gently moved apart in order to reduce compression on surrounding structures such as discs or nerve roots. After surgery, you will likely experience decreased neck pain and improved physical function. Although most patients recover quickly, you may need some extra time to adjust to your recovery and take part in rehabilitation activities such as physical therapy exercises.
Alternative Treatments
Neck pain can be a frustrating and debilitating experience, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. Fortunately, there are alternative treatments available that can help provide some relief. From yoga and physiotherapy to chiropractic adjustments and massage, these treatments can help you get back to living your life with less pain.
Let’s take a look at what these therapies have to offer:
Yoga
Yoga is a form of exercise that can help reduce neck pain. Practicing yoga can help to strengthen the muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. Strengthening these areas helps to prevent further neck injuries and can also reduce pain experienced when you move your head or turn your neck in different directions.
Yoga is an excellent form of exercise for neck pain because it can be done in a gentle manner that respects any existing limitations and provides relief without straining the body. There are certain poses and sequences that can be used to specifically target areas associated with neck pain. For example, poses such as Cat-Cow, Seated twists, Downward-facing dog, Upward dog, and thread-the-needle may all be beneficial for improving the range of motion in the neck area while providing support to this often volatile region.
It’s important to note that though yoga may not offer complete relief from persistent or severe cases of neck pain, it is highly recommended for those who experience chronic or reoccurring pain. Additionally, because yoga is an excellent way to de-stress, its calming effects may also distract from any discomfort experienced from chronic conditions such as arthritis or degenerative disc disease – both of which are conditions commonly associated with persistent neck pain.
Tai chi
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art based on the principles of balance and body awareness. Often used as a form of exercise and relaxation, tai chi is also growing in popularity as a method of neck pain relief. Practiced correctly, tai chi helps relax muscles and encourages natural healing within the body.
Tai chi is a gentle, low-impact activity that requires little if no equipment. It builds flexibility and strength while improving circulation throughout the body. This can help reduce stiffness that may be causing or exacerbating chronic or occasional neck pain. Unlike more traditional treatments such as prescribed medications or surgery, tai chi is completely natural with few risks or negative side effects.
The key to relieving neck pain with tai chi is to ensure that you are performing the movements correctly and not overstretching your muscles beyond what your body can comfortably do without strain. If you have any existing physical limitations, it’s important to discuss them with your instructor before beginning tai chi. Regular practice will allow your muscles to become stronger and more flexible; over time, this should provide some relief from pain in the neck area as well as improve overall physical health and well-being.
Heat and cold therapy
Heat and cold therapy are two of the most commonly used approaches for neck pain relief because they can stimulate circulation and reduce swelling.
- Heat therapy: Heat can reduce muscle pain and stiffness, making it an excellent therapeutic choice for those with chronic neck pain. To gain the benefits of heat therapy, use a heating pad or hot water bottle on your neck for 15-20 minutes at a time. It’s important to be careful not to burn yourself while using heat therapy.
- Cold therapy: Cold therapy is effective in reducing inflammation and providing instant relief from neck pain. Cold compresses or ice packs can be applied to the site of pain for 10-15 minutes at a time. It’s important to wrap the compress in a damp cloth prior to placing it on your skin so that you don’t suffer any frostbite or skin irritation.
Alternative treatments such as massage, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and yoga may also help relieve your neck pain symptoms – but it’s best to check with your doctor before trying any new forms of treatment.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is an alternative treatment for neck pain relief that uses low-voltage electrical current to deliver a signal through the skin as a form of pain relief. A small device sends electrical impulses through wires connected to electrodes that are attached to the skin near the area causing the pain. The TENS device stimulates the nerves, reducing the sensation of pain and providing relief.
The process is safe and noninvasive, and no drugs or anesthesia are required, so there are no side effects like those associated with medications or injections. Each individual experience varies depending on the type of injury and any current physical condition, including age and health history. It can be beneficial for chronic neck pain issues but may not provide immediate relief from acute neck injuries or ongoing stressors of daily life because it takes time for effects to build up.
A certified healthcare professional can instruct you on how to use a TENS unit properly in order to get the best results from your therapy session since incorrect usage may lead to too little or too much stimulation affecting its effectiveness. However, when used properly and with persistent sessions, many patients have found that this alternative treatment has brought them significant degrees of neck pain relief by enabling them to:
- Reduce their reliance on harmful medications
- Focus instead on building strength
- Improving range of motion
- Reducing tension in muscles surrounding the area causes discomfort
- Improving posture control
- Overall quality life
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to cure neck pain?
The fastest way to cure neck pain is to rest and apply ice or heat to the area. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help reduce pain and inflammation. If the pain persists, it may be necessary to visit a doctor for further treatment.
How do you get rid of super severe neck pain?
- Take a warm bath or shower.
- Apply an ice pack to the affected area.
- Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
- Stretch the neck muscles with gentle exercises.
- Try using a heating pad or a hot water bottle in the affected area.
- Massage the affected area.
- See a doctor if the pain persists.
Which pain reliever is best for neck pain?
The best pain reliever for neck pain will depend on the severity and underlying cause of the pain. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen can help to relieve mild to moderate neck pain. If the neck pain is severe or does not respond to over-the-counter pain medications, a stronger prescription pain reliever may be necessary. It is best to speak to your doctor to determine which medication is best for your situation.
pain, neck, shoulder, treatment, doctor, muscles, therapy, people, symptoms, treatments, health, home, muscle, relief, time, inflammation, posture, exercises, body, nerve, medications, area, injury, remedies, head, condition, causes, exercise, cause, heat, arthritis, ice, care, strain, spine, day, shoulders, massage, spondylosis, side, neck pain, shoulder pain, stiff neck, cervical spondylosis, physical therapy, chronic pain, pinched nerve, physical therapist, chronic neck pain, home remedies, many people, pain relievers, subacromial bursitis, healthcare provider, poor posture, few days, pain relief, treatment options, affected area, neck muscles, good posture, muscle strain, medical attention, cold therapy, pinched nerves, medical school, medical advice, neck exercises, chiropractic care, coronary artery disease
Brent Stephens is a neck pain researcher and a medical professional who studies the causes, treatments, and prevention of neck pain. He may conduct clinical trials, review medical literature, and collaborate with other researchers to better understand this common condition and develop effective solutions for those who suffer from it. Through his work, he aims to improve the quality of life for individuals who are dealing with neck pain and to help prevent the condition from occurring in the first place.
