Simple neck pain can be caused by sports injuries, poor posture, holding the head in an unnatural or aberrant position for an extended period, repetitive motion, or even by dozing with the head partially on and partially off the pillow. These minor strains and sprains will heal fairly rapidly.
Chronic neck pain, on the other hand, is a condition in which neck discomfort persists for more than three months. If this chronic neck pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fatigue, paralysis, and difficulty walking, it may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Causes of Chronic Neck Pain
The most prevalent causes of chronic neck discomfort are injuries, overuse, and ageing (simple “wear and tear”). Among the specific conditions that may cause chronic neck pain are:
- Damaged or aberrant structures within the cervical vertebrae (neck bones).
- Damage to the facet joints between vertebral pairings
- Bad posture
- Degenerative Conditions (such as ageing and rheumatism)
Less frequent causes of persistent neck pain include tumours, severe muscle strains, and extensive injury to the ligaments that connect the bones. Fractures and fractures in the neck can also cause chronic neck pain, particularly if the bones are not properly set or healed improperly.
Varieties of Neck Pain
People with chronic neck pain may experience any or all of the minor aches and pains outlined above, as well as far more serious conditions, such as:
- Tingling and numbness that radiate pain
- Trouble raising, grasping, and holding objects
- Coordination, walking, and overall balance
- Difficulties with loss of bladder or bowel control
Facet joints and discs are the two most common sources of persistent neck discomfort.
Treatment for Chronic Neck Pain
There are many ways to treat neck pain in Singapore. Frequently, home remedies are the most effective treatment for chronic neck discomfort. If pain persists for at least three months, more aggressive remedies may be necessary.
Rest. Just as a fractured ankle or strained calf will benefit from “taking it easy,” so will an injured neck. Find a comfortable position in a chair, sofa, or bed that minimises neck discomfort, and remain in that position for a while. Sometimes, positioning a folded cloth beneath your neck will assist in maintaining a “neutral” or straight position for your head and neck.
Physical rehabilitation and exercise. Before engaging in any stretching or flexibility exercises to alleviate your chronic neck pain, consult your physician to ensure that you will not cause further harm to your cervical spine.
Physical therapy for the neck is a treatment option for persistent neck discomfort. Studies show that strength and endurance exercises with light weights or resistance bands significantly alleviate chronic neck discomfort. Under the guidance of a certified physical therapist, stretching regimen and strengthening can improve overall blood flow to the spine. This keeps it healthy and aids your body’s ongoing healing efforts.
