Neck and Shoulder Pain Causes and Ways To Relieve Pain
For many reasons, neck and shoulder pain is widespread due to a number of lifestyle factors.Our neck comprisesthe vertebrae extending from the skull to the upper torso. Inflammation, injury, or abnormality can lead to neck stiffness and pain. Many people face neck and shoulder pain occasionally, mainly due to poor posture or sleeping in an awkward position.
Moreover, neck and shoulder pain is also caused due to injury from a tumble, whiplash, or sports that require repeated impacts. The pain can be non-serious or serious, depending on the underlying cause. It can be relieved in a few days or result from some serious injury, so it might take a long and require doctor’s care.
Causes
Muscle Tension and Strain
The most common cause of neck or shoulder pain is muscle tension or strain. It is caused by poor posture, sleeping in an awkward, uncomfortable position, using a laptop or any other device for too long in the same position, etc.
Injury
Injuries in car accidents, sports, exercise, or falls also lead to neck or shoulder pain. An injury may cause a fracture in the neck bone or damage to the spinal cord. A neck injury from a sudden jerking is commonly called whiplash.
Heart Attack
Neck pain is also a symptom of a heart attack, coupled with other symptoms like vomiting, nausea, sweating, shortness of breath, and arm or jaw pain.
Meningitis
Meningitis is also a cause of neck and shoulder pain. It is a swelling of the thin tissue surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Remedies
Good Posture
Keeping a good posture can relieve shoulder or neck pain. You can stand straight against the wall with your shoulders, hips, and heels aligned with the wall. Move your palms as high as you can and then down. Also, try not to keep your neck or shoulder in an unusual posture. Stand and sit straight and make it a habit.
Exercise
There are a lot of neck and shoulder exercises, including cardio and yoga. Regular neck and shoulder exercises keep your muscles active. Moreover, you can make a stretching routine to help lessen the pain and stiffness in the affected areas. Also, if you sit a lot in your routine, try to get up and walk every 30 minutes.
Gentle Massage
Neck and shoulder massages help a lot with the pain. You can go for a hot oil massage; it relieves muscle tension. It is important for those sitting and working on laptops all day. A gentle massage refreshes the muscles.
Surgical Procedure
When neck and joint pain is severe or results from an accident or fall, one must consult a doctor. If the case is extreme, they may recommend any surgical procedure.
Conclusion
Neck or shoulder pain when waking up is one of the more prevalent types of pain in the musculoskeletal system. Try exercises and massages if you feel it is due to poor posture or your routine. However, do not ignore it if it is extreme.