Your neck muscles and ligaments have been stretched. The neck can be injured by a sudden and awkward movement. This can happen when you fall, get hit by a car, or play certain sports. If you are forced to keep your neck in an uncomfortable position while working or sleeping, neck strain can occur.
Neck pain can sometimes get worse after an injury. However, it should feel better once the injury is over. It is possible to feel more stiffness and pain for several days before the pain subsides. This is normal. It can take several weeks for the injury to fully heal. You can get better quicker and prevent future neck problems by getting home treatment.
Your safety and treatment will not be complete without follow-up care. If you have any questions, make sure to attend all appointments. It is a good idea also to keep track of your tests and the medications you are taking.
What Can You Do to Take Care of Yourself at Home?
Wear the cervical collar (neck brace) that was prescribed to you to reduce neck motion for as long as you are allowed by your doctor. It should not be worn for longer than it was prescribed. Too much brace can cause stiffness in the neck and weaken the neck muscles.
To Test if Heat or Ice Works
You can use a heating pad at a low or medium setting for 15-20 minutes each hour. Warm showers are a better alternative to a heating pad session. Single-use heat wraps can be purchased that last for up to eight hours.
This article was written by a medical professional at Florida Medical Pain Management. Florida Medical Pain Management is proud to offer West Florida Pain Management to a diverse group of patients. Patients at Florida Medical Pain Management can get help managing hip, knee, leg, and neck pain. The practice also offers comprehensive arthritis management, along with treatments for auto accidents, sports, and work injuries.
