Neck pain

A few of the symptoms associated with neck pain include:

• Dizziness and Unsteadiness: Dizziness and unsteadiness can be caused by inflammation or compression of the nerves in the neck. The most common cause of this is an injury after an accident, but it could also be due to repeated stress on the neck muscles.
• Movement Barrier: If you notice that you are unable to move your neck as per your normal requirement and there is a distinct stiffness, this is a movement barrier, a symptom of painful issues with your neck.
• Frequent Headaches: Issues of muscle tightness in the neck can cause increased tension and lead to regular headaches.
• Pain in Other Areas: Any imbalance that puts additional strain on the network of nerves in the neck region may result in discomfort in the shoulders, chest, arms, wrists, and hands.

Neck pain is common for individuals who have poor posture, characterized by slouched shoulders and a rounded upper back. This posture places significant pressure on the vertebrae of the neck and can lead to conditions such as cervical spondylosis (wear-and-tear injuries of the spine) and cervical compression fractures (injuries resulting from compression of the spinal cord). Some primary causes of neck pain include:

• Muscle strain: Excessive use of the neck muscles, such as spending too much time hunched over a computer or smartphone, often results in muscular strains. Activities like reading in bed or grinding teeth can also strain the neck muscles.
• Worn joints: Like other joints in the body, neck joints deteriorate with age. Osteoarthritis can wear down the cushioning (cartilage) between the vertebrae, leading the body to form bone spurs that impair joint mobility and cause discomfort.
• Compression of the nerves: Herniated discs or bone spurs in the neck vertebrae can compress the nerves that branch from the spinal cord.
• Injuries: Whiplash injuries often result from rear-end vehicle collisions. Whiplash occurs when the head is jerked backward and then forward, straining the neck’s soft tissues.
• Other diseases: Neck discomfort may also be caused by various conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, meningitis, and cancer.

There are a number of factors that increase the risk of neck pain, such as a sedentary lifestyle, prolonged computer use, and carrying heavy bags. One risk factor that many people overlook is sleeping on their stomachs, which can lead to poor posture and muscle imbalances between the head and torso.

Other risk factors include:

• Age: The risk for neck pain increases with age. As individuals grow older, neck muscles tend to weaken, making it more difficult to support the head during rapid changes in posture or movement.
• Gender: Females are considered to be at a higher risk for neck pain.
• Excessive weight: Obesity is a significant risk factor for developing neck pain, as excess weight puts pressure on the spine and interferes with its normal function.
• Height: Taller individuals are more likely to experience neck pain than shorter individuals.
• History of lower back pain: Neck and back pain can be related, as issues in one area of the body may lead to changes in posture and movement that negatively affect the other area.
• Accidents: Injuries sustained during contact sports, motor vehicle accidents, horse riding, etc., are risk factors for neck pain.
• Occupation: Individuals with desk jobs or manual labor jobs (such as construction workers and carpenters) have a higher risk of developing neck pain. Studies indicate that dentists, nurses, office workers, and crane operators have a higher prevalence of neck pain.
• Stress and anxiety: Stress is associated with pain and disability and is perceived as a risk factor for neck pain. Additionally, neck pain has been found to be comorbid with anxiety.
• Depression: Mood disorders, particularly depression, have been linked to chronic neck pain and disabilities.

There are several methods to diagnose issues affecting the neck. These include:

1. Complete medical history
   A thorough medical history is the first step in diagnosing the specific cause of neck pain. It requires the doctor to inquire about current symptoms, the patient’s occupation, and lifestyle.
2. Physical examination
   A key component of the clinical evaluation of neck pain is identifying serious pathology and non-musculoskeletal diseases that may be the source of pain and related symptoms. This includes examining the patient’s posture, particularly the neck and shoulders, palpating the neck’s soft tissue for signs of muscle spasms, tightness, or tenderness, checking the range of motion, reflexes, muscle power, and any unusual sensations along the extremities.
3. Imaging tests
   These tests may include:
   • X-rays: Used to detect areas where bone spurs or other degenerative changes might affect nerves or the spinal cord.
   • CT scan: Combines X-ray images taken from various angles to create a detailed cross-sectional view of the inside of the neck.
   • MRI: Utilizes a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of bones and soft tissues, such as the spinal cord and the nerves that originate from it.
   • Discography: A discogram may assist the doctor in determining if a specific abnormal disk in the spine is causing back pain or neck pain.
4. Other tests
   Additionally, there are certain other tests that can help determine the cause of neck pain, including:
   • Electromyography (EMG): Electrodes are inserted into the muscle or placed on the skin overlying a muscle or muscle group to record electrical activity and muscle response for pain assessment.
   • Nerve conduction studies (NCS): Measure how fast an electrical impulse moves through your nerve and can identify nerve damage.
   • Myelogram: This test uses a contrast dye and X-rays or computed tomography (CT) to investigate problems in the spinal canal.
   • Selective nerve root block (SNRB): An injection used to identify the source of nerve pain in the neck and sometimes to provide longer-term pain relief.

Neck pain is a common problem. One of the most frequent causes of neck pain is poor posture, which leads to improper use of muscles in the neck and spine, resulting in chronic pain. Below are some preventive measures that can be taken to ensure proper posture and relieve neck pain:

1. Exercise regularly
   Aim for a 30-minute cardio workout five times a week to prevent stiffness when inactive. For tips on how to incorporate exercise into your daily routine, read more.
2. Perform stretching exercises for the neck
   Keep your neck muscles fit by performing short sets of stretching and strengthening exercises throughout the day.
3. Maintain a healthy weight
   Obesity or being overweight can predispose you to neck pain. It is important to maintain a body mass index (BMI) between 19 and 24. For more information on BMI, read more.
4. Stay hydrated
   Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to hydrate the discs between the vertebrae in the neck. It is recommended to drink at least eight large glasses of water per day unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
5. Maintain a good posture
   Incorrect posture can strain the muscles and ligaments that support the neck. The head-and-shoulders-forward posture, where the neck slants forward, is a common example of poor posture that contributes to neck pain. This posture can also cause the upper back to slump forward, straining the entire spine.
6. Avoid straining the neck
   Do not lift by bending your back. Instead, squat down and reach your load by bending your hips and knees, then straighten your legs. Keep your load close to your body while lifting. Carrying bags on one side can lead to uneven load distribution, causing pain in the neck and shoulder area. Use a backpack to distribute the load evenly.
7. Use electronic gadgets correctly
   Ensure that your mobile device is at eye level while working. Avoid texting or looking down at your mobile device for extended periods. Use hands-free devices, such as headsets or earpieces, if you spend a lot of time on the phone. Adjust the monitor or laptop height so that your vision is directly in the top third of your computer screen. If you find yourself looking down, raise your monitor. Connecting your laptop to a separate monitor can also be beneficial.
8. Make safety a priority
   Always wear a seat belt while traveling in a car to prevent whiplash injury. Use proper sports equipment to protect the neck while playing sports that can lead to neck injuries, such as football or basketball.
9. Wear a neck brace
   A neck brace can provide support to the neck and help prevent injury or pain. For a selection of neck and shoulder support options, visit our shop.

There are different treatments which are as follows:

1. Pain relief medications
   Various pain relief medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are prescribed for the management of neck pain. They should be used under medical supervision, as self-medicating is never advisable. Some examples include:

   • Paracetamol/Acetaminophen
   • Paracetamol/Acetaminophen + Tramadol
   • Ibuprofen
   • Naproxen

2. Physical therapy
   Physical therapy is one of the most common treatments for managing long-term neck pain. It can help reduce stiffness and improve head and neck range of motion. It aids in strengthening the neck and its supporting musculature while preventing pain from recurring.

3. Injections
   In cases of severe neck pain, a physician may inject a small amount of local anesthetic and/or medication to numb a joint and provide pain relief. Injection of anti-inflammatory medicine, such as corticosteroids, might also be used around the nerves in the neck.

4. Surgery
   Surgery is usually not indicated for neck pain, although it might be considered for alleviating nerve or spinal cord compression. Along with surgery, drugs such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, benzodiazepines, gabapentin, Neurontin, and cortisone injections are also used to enhance the recovery process.

Neck pain can be disturbing and might interfere with daily activities. Home care, a break from sports, gymming, or any other physical activity is recommended. At the early stage of any neck injury, a doctor must be consulted and heavy lifting must be avoided. Other tips that you can follow include:

• Gently massage the affected areas: You can lower your shoulders and identify the sore spot, then gently massage your neck with essential oils for immediate relief. Essential oils like peppermint or lavender oil are known to be beneficial.
• Exercise daily: Stretching is a great form of exercise that can be very helpful if you have a stiff neck. Moving your head gently will increase blood flow in a particular area and reduce inflammation.
• Adjust your sleep positions: Sleeping on your back is the best position for your neck. You can also sleep on your side, but never on your stomach. Choose a rounded pillow to support the natural curve of your neck, with a flatter pillow cushioning your head.
• Apply hot or cold compresses: A hot or cold compression can help you get quick relief from a stiff neck. It is recommended to use ice for the first 24 to 48 hours to reduce swelling, followed by heat to loosen muscles and improve stiffness.
• Take hot showers: A warm water bath can help you relax and soothe tightened muscles, and nothing is better than adding a little Epsom salt. The salt helps to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow.
• Try apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is an excellent home remedy to treat a stiff neck as it is loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. Just soak a napkin in some apple cider vinegar and apply it to your neck.

Take a break! Read more on 6 small steps toward a painless neck and back.

Neck pain can cause significant discomfort and reduce mobility, ultimately affecting the quality of life. The most common complications of neck pain are discussed below:

• Loss of productivity: Studies show that most workers with neck or shoulder symptoms, or hand or arm symptoms, experience productivity loss due to decreased performance at work rather than sickness absence.
• Nerve damage: Cervical radiculopathy, commonly known as a "pinched nerve," occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated as it branches away from the spinal cord.
• Depression: Living with chronic neck pain can lead to depression, as well as feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness, and other mental health-related symptoms.
• Weight gain: Excessive weight gain can lead to poor posture, where the head is slightly pushed forward and the back is curved. This increases strain on the neck and shoulders.
• Can COVID cause neck pain? Some individuals with COVID-19 experience neck pain, soreness, and stiffness. In certain cases, neck pain can be a persistent symptom of long COVID.

1. Ayurveda

This contributes significantly to the management of neck discomfort by combining a corrected Ahar (diet), Vihar (exercise), and Aushadhi (medicines) program. Pranayama or breathing exercises are recommended. Ayurvedic concoctions made with Rasnairandadikashaya, Yogaraja Guggulu, and Sahacharadi Kashaya are highly recommended.

2. Homeopathic Medicine

Homeopathy is regarded as a safe approach to treating neck pain and muscle stiffness. It is devoid of extreme side effects while effectively treating the affected area. Medications such as Bryonia, Causticum, Cimicifuga, and Chelidonium Majus effectively treat stiff neck muscle pain and alleviate sore points.

3. Yoga

For ages, yoga has been known to provide effective and long-term relief for critical ailments, including neck pain. The following yoga poses can be tried:

• Ear-to-shoulder neck rolls
• Seated forward bend
• Crossbody shoulder stretch
• Two-footed pose

These poses should be performed under expert guidance. The word 'Yoga' is derived from Sanskrit and means 'to unite,' symbolizing the union of body and mind. Read more about simple yoga postures to relieve neck pain.

4. Gua Sha

Gua sha typically involves a trained practitioner using a spoon to apply short strokes down the skin of the painful area. It originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine and is applied to areas of the body where blood circulation is believed to be stagnant, blocking energy (called “qi”). While there is no scientific evidence for qi, many individuals have reported neck pain relief from gua sha.

Neck pain can cause serious problems like disability, challenges to daily movement, and lack of balance in the body. It is often associated with headaches and shoulder pain, which can be challenging to deal with on a daily basis. Here are some tips to manage living with neck pain:

• Maintain a good posture by choosing the right support chair for the neck.
• Try water pillows, as they can adjust the firmness by increasing or reducing the amount of water inside.
• Start physical therapy to understand how to reduce the risk of injury, learn exercises targeting the affected area, and identify incorrect postures.
• Start swimming after consulting your doctor. It is a great low-impact exercise for many people who have neck or back pain.
• Maintain a journal to record the intensity and duration of pain so that you can identify your triggers.
• Be mindful of how much screen time you are indulging in.
• Manage your stress by using relaxation techniques including yoga, meditation, exercise, and running. Start with one and engage for at least half an hour every day in the morning.