Gradual onset neck strains: Treatment, symptoms, advice and help

About gradual onset neck strains

Neck strain may arise in any of the structures of neck like muscles, ligaments or even vertebral discs. This may result in neck pain and difficulty in movement. Gradual onset neck strains are more or less inflammatory in nature. Fortunately, such neck strain usually resolves on its own within a few weeks.

Gradual onset neck strains: Incidence, age and sex

Gradual onset neck strain is a very common occurrence in the general population. Adults are frequently afflicted with this condition.

Signs and symptoms of gradual onset neck strains: Diagnosis

The common clinical features of gradual onset neck strain include pain and stiffness in neck which may impede neck movements. Sometimes, pain and stiffness may radiate to shoulders, upper back and arms. Stiffness due to inflammatory causes may be more while getting up in the morning. Some individuals may experience severe headaches or sleep disturbances along with neck symptoms. A handful of patients may complain of tingling and numbness of arms and fingers which may occur due to compression of nerve by muscle spasm.

Detailed history may help in detection of this problem. It is advisable to consult a neurologist to evaluate the condition and rule out any nerve problem. Some investigations like X-ray or MRI scans may be considered to look for causative factors or rule out other problems.

Causes and prevention of gradual onset neck strains

Several causes have been documented to lead to gradual onset neck strains of which wear and tear of neck muscles is the commonest. This may result from bad posture, daily chores, bending over desk for long periods or sleeping in the wrong posture. Sometimes, psychological stress may lead to tension in the neck muscles. Certain conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome or cervical spondylosis may also be associated with gradual onset neck strains.

Such neck strains may be prevented by maintaining correct posture, especially while working on the computer. Stretch neck muscles periodically when you need to sit for prolonged periods at desk or in front of the computer. Moreover, muscle strengthening and stretching exercises should be ideally done on regular basis.

Gradual onset neck strains: Complications

Gradual onset neck strains usually do not lead to any serious complications. However it is a distressing condition which may hamper work efficiency in an affected individual.

Gradual onset neck strains: Treatment

Gradual onset neck strains are generally self-limiting in nature and resolve on their own within a few weeks. The first step is to evaluate the cause of neck strain and eliminate it. Acute episode of neck strain may benefit from cold compress or sometimes hot pack. Some individuals may find relief with gentle massage of painful areas of neck. Analgesic medications may help in alleviating pain and stiffness of neck muscles. Sometimes anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs may be prescribed to reduce inflammation of the muscles. A physiotherapist may be consulted who can advise on correct muscle exercises. General measures like reducing emotional stress, sleeping on a hard mattress, avoidance of pillow may also play a beneficial role. This condition may recur if correct posture is not maintained and causative factors not eliminated.