23rd May 2018

Neck Pain

Neck pain is any discomfort caused by a number of disorders and diseases like a pinched nerve, whiplash, herniated disc, neck strain and degenerative disc diseases. It can also come from infections like a viral infection of the throat and osteomyelitis and septic discitis. Fibromyalgia and polymyalgia rheumatica directly affect the neck muscles causing neck pain. People who are involved in bull riding and contact sports should try neck bracing to prevent neck pains. Poor posture caused by leaning over a computer or bad sitting postures can cause neck pain.

Neck pain usually begins with dull aching and it gets worse until movement of the neck gives extreme pain. Numbness, sharp shooting pain difficulty in swallowing, dizziness and lymph node swelling are all symptoms of neck pain.

Neck pain doctors diagnose causes by first reviewing the history of the symptoms. The intensity of the pain, location, duration all help in diagnosing the cause of the pain. Past injuries and examination of the nervous system also helps in diagnostics. Electromyography, CT scan, myelogram are further tests that helps doctors identify the cause of neck pain

Neck pains can be treated usually depending on the cause and past treatment experiences. Rest, avoiding re injury and rehabilitation normally solve neck problems. If this solution doesn t work then heat or cold applications, traction, physical therapy, anesthetic creams, pain-relief patches, muscle relaxants and surgical procedures. Pain relief exercises and products are some home remedies that can relieve some forms of neck pain. Acupuncture is an alternative for chronic neck pain.

To prevent neck pain, try to keep your head centered over your spine. Other preventive measures are:

• Good posture: It's advisable to sit or stand with your shoulders in a straight line over your head. Your ears must be directly over your shoulders.
• Frequent breaks: its best to move around and stretch your neck and shoulders when travelling for long distances and long hours work at a computer
• Sleep in a good position: try letting your neck and head align with your body. Small pillows under your neck is best. Flattening your spinal muscles by sleeping on your back is a good way to prevent neck pains
• Adjust your desk and chair so your monitor is at eye level to prevent discomfort in the neck
• Avoid carrying heavy load over the shoulders since the weight can strain your neck thereby causing pain

Avoid smoking since it can increase the risk of getting neck pains