Neck stiffness is commonly a warning sign of a medical condition that entails the loss of circulation to the median nerve (the nerve controlling movement in and around the neck) through the median eminence (the point just below the collarbone on either side of the neck). This type of weakness can result from a herniated disk or an injury. In some cases, it’s the result of tumors’ treatment. Sometimes, though, it’s merely due to a build-up of fatty deposits. Neck stiffness isn’t life-threatening; it just makes life difficult.
Neck pain is often felt in front of the ear, in the cheek, neck, or even behind the ear. The neck muscles can also feel tightness, especially when sleeping. It can also make it difficult to swallow food or breathe. If this is particularly severe, the patient may complain of pain that radiates down the arm and into the shoulder.
Neck stiffness can also result from osteoporosis or rheumatoid arthritis. Neck pain relief Sometimes, the paralysis only occurs when the person sleeps, while other times, the pain becomes more frequent and severe. Often, the symptoms go away after a few weeks, but in many cases, they continue.
One way of dealing with neck stiffness is by taking pain relievers. These can help alleviate the pain from the underlying cause. It may be beneficial as long as they’re brought before bed.
In addition to relieving the pain, anti-inflammatory medications may be used to ease stiffness. For instance, Tylenol can help with pain in the neck, shoulders, and lower back muscles. However, it must be taken regularly for it to be effective. If the problem doesn’t improve over time, a doctor may decide that surgery isn’t the best option.
Decompression therapy is sometimes recommended in combination with medications to help reduce the severity of the pain. Some people, however, choose not to use drugs at all. In this case, chiropractic treatments may be considered. Using various methods, including traction, massage, exercise, and muscle strengthening, chiropractic adjustments can correct spinal discs’ spinal imbalances, which cause strain on nerves, muscles, and joints. These adjustments can result in better circulation, improved posture, and reduced stiffness. If the pain remains or worsens, patients may need to undergo more treatments to cure the problem completely.
