How to Cure Neck and Cervical Pain?

Have you ever woken up with a stiff neck or experienced pain and discomfort in your neck and cervical area? If so, you know just how debilitating and frustrating this type of pain can be. Whether it's due to poor posture, stress, or a pre-existing condition, neck and cervical pain can make even the simplest tasks seem daunting. But fear not! 

In this blog, we'll explore various methods and techniques for curing neck and cervical pain, so you can get back to feeling like yourself again. We'll cover everything from simple stretches to more advanced exercises and therapies. So, if you're ready to say goodbye to neck and cervical pain once and for all, keep reading!

Causes of Neck and Cervical Pain

Neck and cervical pain can be due to various reasons, including posture, muscle tension, etc. Here are some of the most common causes of neck and cervical pain:

Poor posture

Poor posture can strain the cervical spine, leading to neck and cervical pain. Poor posture can be caused by sitting or standing in an awkward position for a long period of time. Poor posture is also a cause of severe neck and shoulder pain.

Muscle tension

Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders can lead to neck and cervical pain. Tension can be caused by stress, anxiety, or overuse of the muscles.

Whiplash

Whiplash is an injury to the neck that occurs when the head is suddenly thrown forward or backward. It can cause neck and cervical pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.

Spinal disc herniation

A herniated disc occurs when one of the discs between the vertebrae slips or bulges out of place. This can put pressure on the surrounding nerves, leading to neck and cervical pain.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the neck and shoulders.

Symptoms of Neck and Cervical Pain

The symptoms of neck and cervical pain vary depending on the cause. Common symptoms include:

1. Pain: Neck and shoulder pain can range from mild to severe. It can be localized to one spot or spread throughout the neck and shoulders.
2. Stiffness: Stiffness in the neck and shoulders can make it difficult to move or turn your head.
3. Limited range of motion: Limited range of motion in the neck or shoulders can make it difficult to bend or turn your head.
4. Numbness or tingling: Numbness or tingling in the neck and shoulders can be a sign of nerve compression.
5. Weakness: Weakness in the neck and shoulders can make it difficult to lift or carry heavy objects.
6. Headaches: Headaches can be a symptom of cervical pain. Headaches can also lead to neck and shoulder pain.

Treatments for Neck and Cervical Pain

The treatment for neck and cervical pain depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include:

Medication: Over-the-counter or prescription medications can help reduce pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises and stretches to help relieve neck and cervical pain. Physical therapy can greatly help in neck pain relief. 

Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be recommended to correct a herniated disc or other medical condition. After surgery, you’ll get the neck pain relief you want.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Neck and Cervical Pain

If your neck and cervical pain are not severe, several non-surgical treatments can help reduce your pain. These include:

1. Heat or cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Massage: Massage can help relax the muscles in the neck and shoulders, relieving pain and tension.
3. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): TENS is a therapy that uses electrical stimulation to reduce pain.
4. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting fine needles into the skin. It is believed to help restore balance in the body and provide neck pain relief.

Stretches and Exercises for Neck and Cervical Pain

Stretching and exercising can help reduce tension in the neck and shoulders and improve flexibility. Some stretches and exercises you can try include:

1. Neck circles: Gently move your head in circles, both clockwise and counterclockwise.
2. Shoulder shrugs: Shrug your shoulders up and down and side to side.
3. Neck tilts: Tilt your head to the side and hold for several seconds.
4. Neck stretches: Gently tilt your head to the side and use your hand to pull the ear toward the shoulder. Hold for several seconds and repeat on the other side.
5. Arm and shoulder stretch: Raise your arms above your head and gently pull them back. Hold for several seconds and repeat.

Alternative Treatments for Neck and Cervical Pain

If you are looking for alternative treatments for neck and cervical pain, there are several options available. These include:

1. Yoga: Yoga can help improve flexibility and reduce tension in the neck and shoulders.
2. Chiropractic care: Chiropractic care can help realign the spine and reduce pain.
3. Herbal remedies: Herbal remedies, such as turmeric and ginger, can help reduce inflammation and pain.
4. Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy uses essential oils to help reduce stress and tension.

Home Remedies for Neck and Cervical Pain

There are several home remedies you can try to help relieve neck and cervical pain. These include:

1. Resting: Getting plenty of rest can help reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Ice and heat: Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Posture: Keeping a good posture can help reduce strain on the neck and shoulders. A good posture is one where your stand tall and straight with your head, abdomen, and chin in one line.
4. Ergonomics: Adjusting your workstation to be more ergonomic can help reduce strain on the neck and shoulders.
5. Stress management: Stress can make neck and cervical pain worse, so managing your stress can help reduce pain.

Conclusion

Neck and cervical pain can be extremely uncomfortable and painful. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available to help relieve your pain. These include medications, physical therapy, stretches and exercises, alternative treatments, and home remedies. If you are experiencing neck and cervical pain, you must consult with an Orthopaedic. So, visit the Medanta Medicity Hospital’s Orthopaedic Department to diagnose and treat neck and cervical pain.