neck strain

cervical strain

Cervical strain, or to give it it's common name, neck strain, is an irritation and spasm of the upper back muscles and neck. These muscles support the head and allow the neck to move. The major cause of neck strain is physical or emotional stress. Some other more common causes are whiplash injury (usually following a car accident) ,underlying neck arthritis, poor posture,  the weight and tension of large breasts and fibromyalgia.

Symptoms and Signs

• Severe pain at the time of injury.
• Tenderness at the injury site.
• Bruising that appears soon after injury.
• A feeling of  tearing or popping; inside the neck.
• Swelling in the neck.
• Muscle spasm with stiffness and soreness in the neck.

Treatment

You should consult your doctor who will ask about your symptoms and how the injury took place. The doctor will examine your neck to assess its stability and the severity of the injury.

After the assessment of your condition your doctor will formulate a treatment plan that involves you and your family, to treat your injuries. Consideration will be given to the length of time that might be involved for recovery. Most neck strains heal themselves with appropriate supportive self-care alone. Many people do not need specific medical intervention.