What Should I Do If I Twisted My Neck Muscle?

Neck muscle strain is commonly known as stiff neck, which is a type of soft tissue injury. It can be caused by wind-cold invasion leading to discomfort in the meridians, improper neck position during sleep, or forceful twisting of the head. Neck muscle strain can result in pain and interfere with daily activities. It is important to rest and avoid movement when suffering from neck muscle strain, and timely symptomatic treatment is necessary.

What should you do if you strain your neck muscles? Here are some suggestions:

Firstly, restrict neck movements, especially flexion and extension, and avoid applying force. Bed rest is recommended. Within 24 hours of the injury, apply cold compresses to the affected area, but avoid heat and massage stimulation. After 24 hours, you can apply heat to the neck and take oral medication to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis, which helps reduce swelling and restore the injured tissue. If the pain is severe, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be taken to relieve the discomfort. Typically, with the initial cold compresses and later heat application, the swelling and pain should gradually decrease within a week, allowing gradual resumption of neck movements. However, avoid excessive massage during this period to prevent further swelling and hinder recovery.

Neck and joint sprains, like those in the lumbar region, are common injuries. Stiff neck is generally caused by wind-cold invasion, improper sleeping position, or forceful twisting of the head, resulting in pain on one side of the neck.

The reasons for neck sprains often involve improper neck position or exposure to wind-cold. Common scenarios include suddenly lifting heavy objects, performing rolling movements with the head in an incorrect position, sleeping on a pillow that is too high, sleeping with the head and neck in an excessively slanted position or with the shoulders and neck exposed to cold, sitting by an open window while looking out, or riding in an open-top car for long distances in cool weather. All these factors can lead to neck sprains.