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Neck Muscle Pain Relief

Neck muscle pain is difficult to ignore. It seems that no matter what you do or which way you turn, it's there nagging at you. Muscle pain in the neck can be caused by a variety of sources, ranging from spinal damage to muscle strain from sleeping with your head and neck at an odd angle. Treating these symptoms is best approached by using a combination of relief methods.

  1. Home and Over-the-Counter Remedies

    • If you're experiencing neck muscle pain, try to find a resting position that is comfortable. Refrain from any vigorous activity for a day or two, and rest as much as possible. Try placing a warm heating pad on the area for about 15 minutes at a time. Sometimes a warm shower or bath can provide some relief as well. Take an anti-inflammatory medicine such as ibuprofen (Advil) or Naproxen (Aleve). If your symptoms don't go away or lessen significantly within 24 to 48 hours, visit your family doctor.

    Medical Intervention

    • Muscle pain in the neck that doesn't subside over a period of a day or two may indicate a more serious problem. Spinal conditions such as herniated disks, compressed disks, bone spurs and degenerative disk disease can cause strain, inflammation and pain in the surrounding muscles of the neck and back. Your doctor may order various diagnostic procedures to check for spinal problems. If a spinal condition is causing your neck muscle pain, your doctor may advise you to undergo surgery to remedy the problem. In the meantime, your physician can prescribe a stronger pain medication and/or try cortisone injections for temporary relief.

    Preventing Neck Muscle Pain

    • Lifestyle modifications can help relieve and prevent muscle pain in the neck area. Be aware of your posture as you sit and stand. Poor posture can cause muscle and spinal strain. Also be cognizant of tension; stress can cause you to tense your muscles, which can, in turn, cause discomfort. Try to reduce stress by exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, eating a healthy diet, and making time for fun and relaxation. Always stretch properly and warm up slowly when you begin to exercise.

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