Stress aggravates neck pain

The causes for chronic neck pain are varied such as bad posture, siting in front of the computer for prolonged periods, reading incessantly without a break. Stress, sensitive nature, insomnia (lack of sleep), etc, aggravate chronic neck pain. Such patients apart from suffering from neck pain also complain of headache, dizziness, etc. Long supple necks are more vulnerable to pain as these require strong muscles to support them.

Symptoms

Pain at the back of the head and neck.

Pain and restricted movements of the neck in one or more directions.

Individuals suffering from anxiety and certain psychological disorder are candidates for expericing pain on slight provocation vis-à-vis the feeling of excessive pressure of weight of the head on the pillow which often becomes intolerable.

Complaints like numbness, tingling and burning felt in the scalp region.

In certain cases, a buffalo hump may develop at the lower part of the neck.

Physical examination reveals various trigger points around the neck which are tender.

Treatment

The primary aim of treatment is alleviation of pain and stress.Individuals afflicted with pain avoid exercises in order to prevent pain which in turn weakens the neck muscles. In such cases, there is loss of the natural healthy curve, and such curve restoration cures chronic pain. Execises facilitate curve restoration.

Manipulation and mobilization of the spine doen correctly bgy qualified individuals bring immediate relief in most cases of neck pain.

Message combined with electro-therapies like ultra-sound is greatly helpful.

Trigger points: Certain trigger points (tender spots) around the neck are associated with referred pain as the original pain spot is located at some distance. Ideally, the cause of pain in the neck is treated and trigger points are dissolved via a local injection, Vapo-coolant spray, and massage or stretching of the concerned muscle.

In acute cases, short-term immobilization with cervical collar provides relief. However, cervical collar usage for prolonged periods is not advocated as it could weaken neck muscles. The collar should be removed for an hour once every three hours.

Pranayam and meditation go a long way in relieving neck pain due to anxiety, stress and psychological causes.

Exercises

Exercises should be done correctly to relieve pain as wrong exerecises may aggravate pain. Head-rolling exercises, holding the neck in an extra position, should be avoided.

In the first week, initiate stretching exercises for relaxation. This is followed by strengthening exercises with stretch bands for upper neck muscles.

Shoulder shrugs: Standing erect, place your hands on the shoulder in the forward direction 10 times followed by backward rotation. Repeat it three times every day.

Strengthening exercises

Place the palm of the hand on the forehead. Try touching the chin to the chest against the resistance of the hand for a count of 10.

Place bothe hands behind the back of the head; tilt the head backward against the resistance of hands.

Place one hand behind the ear, resisting the motion of bringing the ear to the shoulder on the same side.

Ordinarily neck pain responds to conservative treatment in a short span. If neck pain persists for a long time the associated causes like stress and anxiety should be diagnosed and treated.