Neck pain: when to worry

He Neck Pain It is something very common that is usually caused by a bad posture, although it can also have other causes.

But, When to worry about neck pain? In general, it’s not serious and with postural changes, rest, physiotherapy and other care it can disappear or be alleviated. However, it is necessary to be attentive to the type of pain and the symptoms that accompany it because in some cases may be due to more serious problems.

Causes of neck pain

A Pain in the neck (cervical pain either neck pain) may be due to several factors. Most often it is due to a sprain or muscle strain, which is usually caused by poor posture or sudden movements that strain the neck muscles.

Other common causes of neck pain are:

A bad ergonomicsthat is, sitting for a long time in postures that put pressure on the neck.A problem in a cervical disc (herniated disc) that presses on nearby nerves.cervical osteoarthritiswhich occurs when the discs and bones of the cervical spine wear down and deteriorate, often due to aging. cervical spinal stenosisa condition that involves narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck and can cause pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.A trauma or injury to the neckas a whiplash (very frequent in car accidents). stress it can cause muscle tension and stiffness in the neck and shoulders.

Furthermore, diseases such as fibromyalgiaamong many other symptoms, can also cause neck pain.

neck pain: when to worry

Neck pain can vary greatly in intensity and severity. Although in most cases the neck pain is not seriousin some people it can be a sign of something more serious and it is convenient to be look out for some signs:

He pain is very intense and persistent or limits movement of the neck and daily activities. If, in addition to neck pain, there are problems with bowel or bladder controlas it can be a sign of a serious condition in the spinal cord or nerves.

If he neck pain is accompanied by fever, stiffness, or headache could be a sign of an infection or inflammation (such as a meningitis) and seek help immediately. If there is numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms, hands, or legs (along with neck pain), this may be a sign of nerve compression or damage. the pain has appeared after an injurysuch as a fall or car accident, see a doctor to rule out fractures or damage to the spinal cord. history of cancer or immune system disorders.

You should also see a doctor if the pain lasts longer than five or six weeksworsens over time or any other symptoms appear (for example, swollen glands in the neck, severe instability, chest pressure…).

How to relieve neck pain

Once more serious causes have been ruled out, in addition to maintaining a good posture, there are various measures that can help you alleviate neck pain and that you can apply yourself at home:

apply ice (wrapped in a cloth, never directly on the skin to avoid burns) helps reduce inflammation in the early stages of pain.

In later stages (beyond 48 hours from the onset of pain), heat can help relieve contracture and the pain. You can apply hot compresses, a heating pad, or just a warm shower. gentle exercises and stretches (better if you do it guided by a physiotherapist), it can help improve flexibility, relieve muscle tension and reduce neck pain. Relaxation techniques (mindfulness, conscious breathing…) will help you relax your muscles.