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Please call 911 immediately if you are having chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, sudden weakness or numbness, or if you think you have a medical emergency.
Neck Strain Treatment
Self-Care at Home
If your pain is not severe and you do not have any new numbness, weakness, or other symptoms of nerve damage, you may safely treat yourself at home.
- If pain is moderate, bedrest may be necessary. A cervical collar may be beneficial.
- It is helpful to place a small pillow under the nape of your neck to provide proper neutral positioning.
- Dry or moist heat applied to the area often provides relief from pain caused by muscle spasm. However, it has not been shown to speed the healing process.
- Pain control with a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), is frequently helpful. An opioid medication, such as codeine, may be added if needed but will need to be prescribed by your doctor. Muscle relaxants are often used also, although they are not considered first-line therapy. They are also available by prescription only.
- You should guard against neck extension because this will make the pain worse. You should stay active and perform your daily work as tolerated, unless this involves heavy physical labor. Contact your doctor for recommendations.
Medical Treatment
After the assessment of your condition by your doctor, a plan will be formulated, in conjunction with you and your family, to treat your injuries. Consideration will be given to the length of time that might be involved for recovery. The vast majority of neck strains heal themselves with appropriate supportive self-care alone. Many people do not need specific medical intervention.
Rest and apply local heat for symptomatic relief, and gradually resume your usual daily physical activity and work.
If pain lasts beyond 2-3 weeks, consideration should be given to an evaluation by a physical therapist. Several treatment plans are available for the person with persistent pain, including home cervical traction, under the direction of your doctor and physical therapist. You should contact your doctor for a referral, as needed.
more information from eMedicineHealth
WebMD Medical Reference from eMedicineHealth
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