Neck Stiffness

The neck is where the spinal column connects to the brain, and it supports the head. Taking care of the neck is critical to good health. Healthline provides an article that addresses the question - when does one call a doctor for neck pain or stiffness? Another excellent source of information on neck pain is the National Institute’s for Health – Medline Plus. They have a similar article on this subject.

Injury that causes severe pain or stiffness requires immediate medical attention. If one cannot touch the chin to the chest then professional medical advice should be sought. Neck pain that does not go away after a week is reason to seek a physician’s help. Neck stiffness accompanied by tingling sensations in the arm or hand is another.

Neck stretching exercises help with flexibility. Of course a good diet and regular exercise can keep the body in general good health. Talk with a physical therapist or a professional trainer about exercises to strengthen the neck.

General stiffness from sleeping the wrong way, over-excursion during physical exercise, or muscle tension may be treated with over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs. If swelling is the problem then cold therapy is generally recommended. Icing the area for 48 hours at intervals of 15 minutes – no more than once per hour – may help. For more information on when and how to ice an injury please consult your physician. The two articles mentioned here have more information on dealing with neck stiffness.

According to the Mayo Clinic, heat will relax stiff muscles, help flexibility, and stimulate circulation. A heating pad may help relieve stiffness once the swelling has gone down or is not involved.

Maine Warmers' microwave heating pads – Neck Warmers - offer moist heat that goes easily from room to Maine Warmers extra long Alligator Neck Warmer for a fun way to feel better.
room or in the car. There isn’t any worry of falling asleep as with an electric heating pad and not messy hot water bottles. Frozen, they provide soothing comforting cold – no harshness or inconvenience of melting ice cubes.