Neck injuries
Neck injuries, often causing pain and stiffness, can stem from various causes like muscle strain, whiplash, or injuries to the spine or nerves. Symptoms can include localized pain, stiffness, and pain radiating to the shoulders or arms, with treatment varying depending on the cause and severity.
Neck problems can cause a range of symptoms including:
pain (which may go down your arm)
stiffness
pins and needles or numbness in your arm or hand
In many cases, new or flare-up of long-standing neck problems should begin to settle within 6 weeks without the need to see a healthcare professional.
you feel clumsiness in your hands, numbness, pins and needles or weakness that is worsening, in one or both arms
you have problems with your balance or walking since your neck pain started
if your neck pain is associated with a severe headache
What causes neck problems?
Neck problems are normally caused by an accident or normal age-related changes. They can also start for no obvious reason.
Neck problems are rarely due to any serious disease or damage.
Can neck pain cause problems anywhere else?
Often neck problems can be accompanied by pain in your upper back or arms.
Pain sensations can include hot, burning, shooting, or stabbing pain in your shoulders or into one or both of your arms.
Neck pain can also cause headaches.
Self-help
There are a number of things you can do to help your neck problem.
Keeping your neck moving is an essential part of your treatment and recovery.
How to get moving
After a neck problem you should:
keep moving, even if you move slowly at first
move your neck for short periods every hour
change positions regularly where ever you are – try to find a position that reduces any pains you may have in your neck and/or arm(s)
try to stay active but remember not to carry out activities which aggravate any pains you may have in your neck and/or arm(s)
do whatever you normally would and stay at, or return to work – this is important and the best way to get better
try to use one supportive pillow as too many can put strain on your neck
Use of a collar isn’t recommended.
Pain treatments
The following can help to reduce the pain:
pain medication – this can help you move more comfortably, which can help your recovery
heat or ice packs
Treating with ice or heat
Remember to never place ice or heat directly on your skin. Use a barrier, such as a towel, to protect your skin from a burn. How long you use ice as a treatment can depend on the painful area but generally up to 15 minutes leaving a few hours between treatments.
You should stop treating the area with ice or heat and seek advice from a medical professional if you notice an increase in redness, discolouration or blistering of the skin.
If you have any issues with circulation or sensation, you shouldn’t use ice or heat as a treatment for neck pain.
Type of Doctor Department : Physiatrist ,pain management specialist, Neurosurgeons and Orthopedic surgeon
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