How To Get Rid Of A Neck Spasm Fast
A neck spasm is one of the most frustrating injuries in the spine. It is painful but it tends to be different from a low back spasm, in that you can usually still move around purely because the neck doesn’t carry as much load through it. We will talk about why a neck spasm happens and then what you can do if you get one and finally how to prevent a neck spasm from re occurring.
Often a neck spasm is referred to as a ‘locked neck’. This is because the neck stiffens up and is locked in place, it makes it difficult to turn your head, drive, and day to day life.
Why does a neck spasm occur?
The same reason a low back spasm occurs, this is to protect the integral structures of the spine from getting damaged, this includes the discs, spinal cord, and nerves. It doesn’t feel like it when it happens, but the spasm is good for you in the short term it does protect you. In the long run we need to identify why the spasm has happened to ensure you can remedy the root cause of the problem. For example, if you have a disc issue the neck will keep going into spasm to protect the disc until it can’t protect it anymore and that is when a slipped disc can occur.
Neck spasms can occur due to a variety of reasons such as:
- Poor posture
- Overuse of muscles
- Physical or emotional stress
- Injury like a car accident
- Underlying conditions such as osteoarthritis or cervical disc herniation.
How to get rid of a neck spasm?
As mentioned, the spasm is there for a reason, so it is important to try to release it off gently.
Taking anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants can help ease the muscles, but remember it doesn’t get rid of the issue, this is why sometime the pain is a good warning sign to protect the integral structures of the neck. If you do take medication, just be aware there is still something going on with the body.
Ice therapy is great to reduce inflammation and reduce the stress on the muscles.
For me stretching and mobilisation Is the best way to release the muscles off gently, rocking the head from side to side, gently pushing into the area of restriction and trying to take it further each time. Have a look at this video here for more tips.
Using a massage gun is also very effective at breaking down some of the adhesions in the muscle that is in spasm.
How long do neck spasms last?
They tend to be very stiff for 24-48 hours and then will gradually release off. There is something wrong with the neck for it to just happen randomly and means you need to find the underlying issue otherwise they can keep coming back sometimes as frequently as once per week.
How to prevent a neck spasm from coming back?
- Correct your posture: Maintain a good posture while sitting or standing. Avoid slouching when sitting at your desk and also when using your phone try to bring it up to eye level
- Exercise regularly: Regular exercise, especially neck and shoulder stretches, can help prevent muscle tension and spasms.
- Get enough rest: Proper sleep is essential for muscle health and repair. Make sure you get adequate sleep each night.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can cause muscle spasms. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your muscles hydrated.
- Manage stress: High levels of stress can trigger muscle tension and spasms. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga. I love Headspace, it’s a free app you can get.
- Avoid sudden movements: Avoid sudden neck movements, particularly twisting or bending. Gradually move your neck and upper body if you must change positions.
- Specific strength exercises to increase the stability of the neck-you want to focus on trying to fix the shoulder blades back and down to give the neck a platform to sit on top of
- Increasing the curve in the neck (lordosis is the curve). We have too much of a forward head carriage because of work and the iPhone, so if you can bring the chin back and down it helps the neck curve and reduces stress on the muscles.
Does Chiropractic care help with a neck spasm?
Chiropractic helps with neck spasms by addressing the underlying issues that cause it. Spasms occur due to tension in the muscles of the neck, which can be caused by misaligned vertebrae or poor posture. As Chiropractors we perform gentle spinal adjustments that correct any misalignments in the neck, reducing pressure on the nerves and muscles. This helps to alleviate tension and spasms and helps our clients to regain full range of motion in the neck. At West Chiropractic we have soft tissue therapists that do massage or trigger point release, to help relax the muscles and reduce inflammation. This therapy can be done alongside Chiropractic adjustments for maximum benefit.
If you want anymore information about neck spasms or how we help with a recurring neck pain please let me know and I can offer advice on how to do them whilst limiting the impact they have on your body.
If you do know someone who wants more advice on neck pain, please send them our details. You can send them this blog and they can request a free copy of our book which has posture related exercises in it as well. Click here for FREE book.
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