Neck pain caused by tiredness, poor posture or torticollis can be alleviated with some simple measures like warm compress, self massage and stretching, which are simple techniques that can be performed at home, bringing quick relief.
The 4 steps to relieve neck pain are:
Step 1 - Put a warm water compress on the neck
It increases the local blood circulation by relaxing the muscles of the neck.
How to do: Wet a towel, put it inside a ziploc plastic bag and carry it to the microwave for about 3 minutes. Then close the plastic bag, wrap it in another dry towel and apply on the neck for 20 minutes, being careful not to burn.
To further alleviate pain, painkillers, such as clove oil, lavender oil or peppermint oil, can be put into the water in the towel that is in contact with the skin.
Step 2 - Massage the neck
After the warm water compress, the ideal is to receive a neck massage with analgesic and anti-inflammatory ointments, such as Voltaren, Calminex or Massageol, for example, as they help to relieve inflammation and pain. These ointments are especially indicated to combat torticollis.
How to do: Wet your fingers with moisturizing cream or oil and press your fingertips against the painful regions, making circular motions for 2 minutes to promote ointment absorption and muscle relaxation.
Step 3 - Stretch the neck
They improve the pain and help decrease the tension in the muscles of the neck. Here are some examples of neck stretching exercises in: Stretches for neck pain or if you prefer to watch this video:
How to: These exercises can be done every day to increase muscle strength and endurance, preventing pain from recurring, even in the case of arthritis and herniated disc in the neck region.
Step 4 - Take an analgesic or muscle relaxant
Medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen, for example, help decrease neck pain and inflammation. In addition, Coltrax can also be used to decrease neck pain because it is relaxing muscle, helping to decrease tension on the neck muscles.
These medicines should be used under the guidance of your doctor or pharmacist.
How to relieve neck pain faster
To speed healing is advised:
- Sleep with a low, firm pillow;
- Avoid driving while neck pain does not go away;
- Avoid sleeping belly down as this position increases the pressure in the neck region;
- Avoid answering the cell between the ear and the shoulder;
- Avoid sitting too long in front of the computer;
- Maintain correct posture. See some exercises to improve posture.
These care avoid muscle strain on the neck, helping relieve pain and inflammation.
When to seek medical advice
It is important to go to the hospital or see the doctor if the neck pain does not go away within 3 days if the pain is very severe or if you have other symptoms such as fever, vomiting or dizziness because these may be symptoms of diseases such as meningitis or migraine, for example.
Learn more about neck pain.
