Neck pain

Symptom

Neck Stiffness

Common Causes

* Degeneration in C5 and C6 spinal discs (typically in older patients)
* Sudden “locking” of the neck due to muscle spasm. This can occur for an infinite variety of reasons such as, lying too long in one position, violently sneezing or making an unusual movement involving the head or neck muscles
* Degeneration in C5 and C6 spinal discs (typically in older patients)

Treatments

* Application of an ice-pack in the acute initial phase can help. Later a heat-pack or hot water bottle should provide relief.
* A GP will frequently prescribe you pain-killers and/or anti-inflammatories such as ibroprofen
* Wearing a soft-collar neck support for a few days to take pressure off the muscles in spasm
* Osteopathic treatment is recommended if movement remains restricted after a few days or if you suffer from bouts of stiffness on a regular or not infrequent basis