The neck is an essential component of the human body because it connects the head to other body parts. The neck encloses many structures responsible for multiple functions, including breathing, speaking, circulatory and lymphatic inflow, and supporting the brain and Cervical Spine.
Neck Anatomy & Physiology
The neck is the most flexible joint in the human body. It allows us to look up, down, forward, backward, left, right, and even upside down. The neck connects interconnected bones, muscles, tissues, nerves, joints, and ligaments. The spinal column consists of 7 bones called vertebrae; an intervertebral disc is between each pair of vertebrae.
What do you mean by neck pain?
Neck pain has become quite common among people of all ages. Neck pain is usually caused by excessive use or injury. However, other factors such as genetics, age, lifestyle, and stress may contribute to neck pain. It can start as an intermittent, dull ache or excruciating, stabbing pain that restricts a person from carrying out their everyday activities.
What Causes Neck Pain?
Neck pain can either be acute or chronic. Acute pain usually results from a tear ligament/muscle due to a sudden jerk. If the pain doesn't get resolved, is continuous/on and off, and has been happening for over three months. It is termed chronic, so take Physical Therapy in Brooklyn.
Neck pain is a common problem these days that spend long hours sitting on their computers or phones. However, few are aware that there are several contributing factors.
Find out what these causes are and how they can treat.
Poor Posture
When you sit down, your back should be straight, and your head should be high. It guards against injuries and keeps your spine healthy. It would be best to keep your neck straight, so your brain does not have to work too hard. It makes you more productive and less likely to suffer from stress.
Muscles Strain
Neck pain can have many factors, including sports, accidents, and other activities. When sleeping, try to avoid positions that put pressure on your neck or back. Neck pain can be caused by sleeping on a rugged pillow or a too flat pillow.
Injury & Trauma
Neck pain can be caused by slight neck muscle injury or severe cervical spine damage. Whiplash injuries occur when the head moves rapidly from side to side within the neck. They cause pain, stiffness, and soreness on one side of your neck. It can start immediately, or it may take several days before you notice symptoms.
Diseases of The Discs Or Joints Like Degeneration or Herniation
The discs and facet joints of the spine can be injured or degenerate due to trauma, wear and tear, age, etc., and thus may lead to compression of a nerve root, causing pain and numbness, and restricted movement.
Symptoms of the Neck Pain?
● Neck muscle spasm
● Tightness
● Swelling
● Muscle inflammation
● Neck Pain in Static position
● Headache
What Are Treatments For Neck Pain?
Improving Your Posture
Improving your posture alone will help reduce your pain and stiffness if an underlying condition doesn't cause it. To maintain good posture, you must know what you're doing. Reminding yourself to keep your posture and prevent slouching would be beneficial. Park Sports Physical Therapy is also one of the best solutions to eliminate neck pain.
Neck Exercise and Stretching
Can do specific exercises to relieve neck pain, reduce stiffness, improve muscle flexibility, and strengthen neck muscles. Always consult your doctor for Physical Therapy in Brooklyn before beginning an exercise program to avoid injury.
Cold Packs/Heat Packs
Cold packs use to reduce swelling and pain after an injury or surgery. They also help prevent infection by keeping the area warm and moist. If you do not have the ready-made or custom-made ice pack bags, you may also use an ice bag wrapped up in a towel and apply it to the affected area for 10 min, several times a day, alternating with heat packs.
Neck Collar
A neck collar helps immobilize the neck and relieves pressure on the nerves. It also prevents the muscles from contracting and thus reduces the chances of injury. They come in different shapes and sizes depending on the type of injury.
It is a comfortable fit and has an adjustable strap so you can wear it comfortably for long periods. It is made from soft material and does not cause discomfort or irritation when worn.
Physical therapy
If you have been suffering from neck pain, you need to visit a physiotherapist for Park Sports Physical Therapy. A single visit to your physiotherapist will not solve your neck pain issues, but it can relieve some of the pain and make it easier for you to perform routine daily activities.
