What Causes Neck Pain, Symptoms and Treatment
Neck pain is a common condition that causes substantial disability and it is increasing worldwide.
Out of all 291 conditions studied in the Global Burden of Disease 2010 Study, neck pain ranked 4th highest in terms of disability as measured by YLDs (Years Lived with Disability), and 21st in terms of overall burden.
In addition, the study reported the incidence of neck pain is increasing with a 21% rise between 2005 and 2015. The high prevalence of neck pain and related costs in terms of health care expenditures and lost productivity is causing a rising economic burden in modern societies.
A stiff neck is typically characterized by soreness and difficulty moving the neck, especially when trying to turn the head to the side. It may also be accompanied by a headache, neck pain, shoulder pain and/or arm pain. In order to look sideways or over the shoulder, an individual may need to turn the entire body instead of the stiff neck.
Most people are familiar with the pain and inconvenience of a stiff neck, whether it appeared upon waking up one morning or perhaps developed later in the day after some strenuous activity, such as moving furniture.
- Sleeping with the neck at an awkward position.
- Falling or sudden impact that pushes the head to the side, such as sports injuries.
- Turning the head side to side repeatedly during an activity, such as swimming the front crawl stroke.
- Slouching with poor posture while viewing the computer monitor or looking downward at a mobile phone for prolonged periods.
- Experiencing excessive stress or anxiety, which can lead to tension in the neck.
- Traveling for long time or working long hours.
Treatment
Rest - Taking it easy for one or two days gives injured tissues a chance to begin to heal, which in turn will help relieve stiffness and possible muscle spasm.
Medications - Over the counter pain relief medications can offer pain relief from stiff neck though they do come with some risks and side effects. So be sure to discuss any medications with a pharmacist or doctor.
Heat & Cold Therapy - Cold therapy/ice packs help relieve most types of neck stiffness by reducing local inflammation. Applying ice during the first 24 to 48 hours of a painful flare-up usually has the most benefit in terms of reducing inflammation. Applying heat to the neck can spur blood flow, which fosters a better healing environment. Some patients prefer ice, whereas others prefer heat. Both may be used alternately.
Breakthrough Technology enabled TENS Neck Massager with Heat Functionality - Our own Smart Wireless Neck Massager has a heating functionality that will help the body to be more receptive to treatment by relaxing muscles and further stimulating blood flow. The unit can be used when pain is present or as a way to stave off the effects of computer use or other activities that can affect the neck.
This is achieved using safe and awarded TENS technology which will work together with heat treatment to contract muscles, while also stimulating blood flow.
Most neck pain improves gradually with above mentioned home treatments. If not, see your doctor.
Seek immediate care if severe neck pain results from an injury, such as a motor vehicle accident, diving accident or fall.
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