Neck pain is a common complaint that can be caused due to poor posture and injury. This type of pain can affect people of all ages and gender. A combination of treatments and some lifestyle changes may help to manage and ease neck pain. 

If you are looking for neck pain relief in Alexandra, VA, this post can help you. Here you can find the best tips to ease and prevent pain in the neck. Before considering any treatment or tip, you need to understand the causes of neck pain. It will help you to treat your condition effectively. 

Causes of neck pain

There are different factors and conditions that can develop pain in the neck. Some common causes of neck pain are given below:

  • Poor sleeping and sitting posture
  • All-over body pain
  • A tear in the lining of the neck artery
  • Meningitis
  • A spinal tumor
  • Working at a desk for too long
  • Jerking neck during exercise
  • Congenital abnormalities
  • Cancer of the spine
  • Abscesses
  • Infection Muscle strain or ligament sprains
  • Muscle spasms
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Cervical spondylosis
  • Torn or herniated (bulging) disk in your spine

In many cases, neck pain can lead to reduced range of motion and stiff neck pain. the time period of neck pain is commonly classified as follows:

  • Acute pain can last 1-2 weeks
  • Subacute pain can last 4-5 weeks
  • Chronic pain can last one or more months

Best ways to manage and ease neck pain 

Massage 

Massage therapy is one of the best and effective ways to ease your neck pain. By massaging your neck, you can relieve muscle tension, stiffness, and pain. This process will help you to increase blood circulation and relax your body. You can use essential oils for better results.  

Hot and cold therapy

If you are experiencing unmanageable pain in your neck, hot and cold therapy can be an ideal option for you. Many doctors recommend applying heat and icing application to the affected area for instant relief. By applying ice to your neck muscles, you can decrease blood flow and reduce your pain and swelling. On the other hand, heat applications like a heat pack will help you to increase blood circulation and promote the body’s natural healing.  

Stretching and strengthening for neck pain

Stretching and strengthening exercises can help you eliminate your pain and develop muscle support to prevent future injuries. By doing stretching exercises, you can improve the flexibility of your neck muscles, and reduce stiffness and discomfort. Strengthening exercises will help you to increase bone density and decrease the chances of fracture and pain.  

Improve posture

Poor sleeping posture can be the leading cause of neck pain. By improving your posture, you can ease and prevent your neck and back pain. Here are a few tips to fix your poor posture.

  • Avoid too many pillows while sleeping. It forces your neck to curve upward and causes pain. 
  • Avoid sleeping on your stomach
  • Use the soft pillow
  • Use a soft and comfortable mattress to support your neck and back
  • Keep your hips, shoulder, and ears aligned to improve the sleeping position

You can also connect with a trained and licensed physical therapist to improve your posture. They will work with you to solve your posture-related problems.

Medication 

Inflammation in the spinal discs can also cause neck pain. You can use NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to reduce inflammation and pain. These medicines will also help you to reduce swelling. Please consult with your doctor before using any medicine. Your doctor may also prescribe a muscle relaxant if you have chronic neck pain caused by muscle spasms.  

When to visit a healthcare expert for neck pain in Alexandria VA

If you have neck pain with the following issues, you should visit a trusted healthcare expert.

  • Fever
  • Loss of strength in your arm, shoulder, and neck
  • Numbness in one or both legs or arms
  • Headaches
  • Night sweats
  • Confusion
  • Tiredness
  • Nausea
  • Inability to move hands or arms
  • Bowel or bladder dysfunction
  • Weakness
  • Sudden pain in the neck
  • Issues with swallowing
  • Chest discomfort

Contact a doctor immediately if pain reliever medicines (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are not helping you manage your pain.    

Summary:

Usually, pain in the neck is nothing to worry about, but if it occurs without any reason, it can be a sign of a major issue. In this case, you should visit a doctor or physical therapist. They will help you diagnose your condition and offer appropriate treatment for neck pain relief in Alexandria, VA.