How Soft Tissue Injuries Cause Neck Strain
Neck strains can range from severe to mild discomfort. Regardless of the pain level, a neck strain can interfere with daily activities. Something as simple as getting dressed can become a problem. Strains in the neck are commonly caused by soft tissue injuries and there are several ways this can happen. However, there are a few ways to bring quick relief when it does.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Your neck is made of several soft tissues including tendons, ligaments, and muscles. They all work together to create neck movement and to support the head. When any of these soft tissues are stretched beyond the normal range of motion, injury occurs. These tissues can be both strained or sprained. It is important to understand the differences between these injuries.
A strain is an injury to the neck muscles or tendons which connect muscles to bones. A sprain is an injury to a ligament which is the fibrous tissue connecting two bones. Depending on the extent of the injury, strains and sprains can vary in severity. However, mild injuries can cause a few torn muscle fibers but a more severe injury causes tears to muscle fibers which take longer to heal.
Symptoms of Neck Strain
The two areas of the neck most likely to experience pain from a strain are the upper trapezius and levator scapulae. However, it can be a challenge to determine if the pain is coming from these regions or from possible spinal pathology.
Neck strains and sprains have similar symptoms and can include any combination of these symptoms listed below:
- Neck stiffness
- Muscle spasm
- Localized neck pain
- Pain that can range from a dull ache to sharp
- Worsened pain with movement
One difference between neck strains and sprains is that a strain can also cause pain that radiates to the head, shoulder, or upper back.
Causes of Neck Strain
The most common causes of injury to the neck tissues and neck strain include:
- Whiplash
- Poor posture
- Holding your head at an awkward angle for a long time
- Lifting an object that is too heavy
- Repetitive neck movements
- Performing an unfamiliar activity
How to Treat a Neck Strain
The most common and effective treatment options for neck strain include:
- Heat therapy
- Cold therapy (often alternated with heat therapy)
- Rest
- Activity modification
- Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen
Exercise programs can be discussed with your doctor as a potential treatment option following the first flare-up. Exercises that strengthen and carefully stretch the soft tissues and muscles can reduce the risk of future injury.
The majority of strains and sprains will start feeling better after a few days of home treatment. If pain and discomfort continue past this, then see your doctor. If the neck pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness or arm pain seek medical attention. It is important to rule out any more serious underlying pathologies.
If you are experiencing neck pain, call us at 888-409-8006 to find a specialist nearest you! Offices located in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs & Plantation.