You are likely to get a stiff neck when you wake up if you slept in an awkward position. Another scenario that might give you a stiff neck is a long and stressful day at work. These are common situations where a stiff neck might occur.
However, you might get a stiff neck that does not disappear after a few days. This one might cause you excruciating pain when you turn your head. It is not just a stiff neck, and there might be an underlying cause.
Possible Causes For A Persistent Stiff Neck
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common neck injury that you mostly get from an auto accident. It occurs when the neck forcefully moves from front to back or side to side. This sudden movement stretches and sometimes tears the ligaments and tendons in the neck area. Most commonly, whiplash presents as a normal stiff neck at first, but it usually worsens over time.
Pinched Nerve
The neck comprises the vertebrae, and between them are the discs and nerves. Discs are usually gel-like structures that act as cushions between vertebrae. When the vertebrae shift out of position, they will most likely pinch a nerve running between them. This can cause neck pain and stiffness.
Home Remedies For Stiff Neck
Pinched Nerve
Sometimes, stiffness in the neck can result from inflammation. You can counter this by applying ice to the area. Use a cold pack or a bag of frozen veggies and wrap them in a towel. Place this on the neck for about 40 minutes, then remove for 20 minutes. Repeat this until you start feeling relief.
Change Your Pillow
Your stiff neck might be aggravated when you sleep because of the positioning of your head. Ensure you have a firm pillow and sleep on your side or back. A pillow that is too flat might cause your neck to bend unnaturally. This, in the long term, will cause your neck muscles to overstretch, causing a stiff neck.
Try Neck Exercises
Neck exercises done right can help alleviate the stiffness of the muscles. You can do light exercises like looking up and down and side to side while tensing and relaxing your neck. It would help if you were careful to do this within the limits of your neck. If you overextend, you might cause more damage.
How Do You Know It Is Time To See The Chiropractor?
If your neck pain does not improve after a few days
If you feel like you must use medication for your pain
If you cannot turn your head without excruciating pain
If you are worried that there might be a serious underlying cause for your neck pain
If your neck pain started after having a car accident.
If your neck pain has evolved to tingling or numbness in your wrists or hands
If your neck pain is worse in the morning after waking up and eases as the day progresses.
For more on going to the chiropractor for a stiff neck, visit Charleston Chiropractic Associates at our office in Charleston, South Carolina. You can call (843) 225-4357 to book an appointment today.
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