Experiencing a crick in the neck? Know what might be causing it

Crick in the neck can be irritating at times (image by 8photo on freepik)
Crick in the neck can be irritating at times (image by 8photo on freepik)

At some point in their lives, everyone has come across the conventional expression “a crick in the neck”. It is defined as inconvenience due to stinginess in the muscles and around the lower and shoulder blades.

A crick in the neck causes temporary discomfort or, sometimes, can be a constant problem to deal with. There can be many reasons that can cause a crick in the neck such as improper neck position, during physical activity, and many more.

In this article, we will thoroughly discuss the causes, treatments, and preventions for a crick in the neck


Causes of a crick in the neck

It can be caused by incorrect forms of physical activities (image by 8photo on freepik)
It can be caused by incorrect forms of physical activities (image by 8photo on freepik)

The causes of a crick in the neck can be quite outspoken. Improper neck positioning for a long period of time, mostly during sleep or sagging for a long stretch are the common causes. Doing physical activities incorrectly such as dancing or weight training can also cause it.

Some medical conditions also contribute to this such as arthritis, a strained nerve, muscle spasm, another joint-related condition and infections within the body. It is advised to know the root cause and get it treated properly.


Treatment for a crick in the neck

Many at-home treatments can fix the neck pain (image by freepik on freepik)
Many at-home treatments can fix the neck pain (image by freepik on freepik)

Pain killers

Painkillers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory medications can relieve pain instantly. It is effective but it is advised to take the medicine after having a meal to secure the lining of the stomach.


Hot water bags or pads

Using heating pads, hot water bags, or a homemade rice sock on the affected areas might minimize the pain by relaxing the stiff muscles and giving a calming warmth to the pain.


Therapy

A hydrotherapy can help ease the pain. Hot water shower, using a steam room, or a steam bath will help release the tension off your shoulder blades which, as a result, will elevate mobility.


Light exercises

Some stretching can help a lot in relaxing the strained nerves from stiff muscles. Slowing rotating your head from left to right or resting flat without any pillows and rocking your head shoulder to shoulder can relax the muscles.

Note that light exercising is advised otherwise the condition can get worse.


Consultation

A chiropractor or a physical therapist can help if none of the above-mentioned treatments work. Chiropractors can analyze the problem and give you advice on exactly what to do to relieve neck pain. Doctors can suggest some good precautions and exercises to help you in the future.


Preventive measures for a crick in the neck

To fix neck pain, many at-home treatments as well as professional care is available. If the condition persists, it is suggested to seek medical care from a healthcare professional. There are many preventions that an individual should take to avoid such problems.

They are as follows:

  1. If the pain is constant, probably one of your arms or legs goes numb, or shows weakness, or if the inconvenience lasts for more than a day, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
  2. Normally, the neck pain goes away in a day or a half. To avoid its reoccurrence, try to sleep in a proper position, and adjust a good posture.
  3. Using comfortable orthopedic furniture will help you relax your muscles better and avoid such neck pains in the future.
  4. Exercises suggested by professional doctors will improve your body’s posture and will decrease chronic neck pain.

We can conclude by saying that a crick in the neck can be a temporary discomfort, hence, it can tamper with your normal daily routine.

People should be well aware of the causes and should try at-home treatments to relieve pain. Professional advice from a doctor is suggested in case the pain becomes constant to secure proper solutions for it.

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