INTRODUCTION​

• A neck strain is inflammation or stretching/partial tearing of one or more of the muscles around the neck

• Neck strains are common in patients of all ages and can range from minor strains from poor positioning or major strains from severe whiplash injuries 

CAUSES​

• Poor posture

• Lifting a heavy object

• Fall or collision

• Repetitive neck motion

• Muscle irritation from pinched nerve

• Degenerative disk disease

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Neck pain and achiness

• Stiffness

• Immobility

TREATMENT​​​

• The goal of treatment is to decrease pain and muscle irritability/spasm 

• Most symptoms of neck sprain will go away in 4 to 6 weeks. However, severe injuries may take longer to heal completely

• Home exercise program: Early motion helps patients maintain neck motion and prevent stiffness. Begin by warming neck with a heating pad or warm towels. Do the following stretches in 3 sets of 10 repetitions twice daily.

• Neck rotation by gently turning the head to the right and holding for a few seconds then repeating on the left

• Neck tilting and trying to touch the ear to the tip of the shoulder on the right and holding for a few seconds. Repeat to the left.

• Neck bending by touching the chin to the chest and holding for a few seconds. 

• Shoulder rolls by pulling the arms backwards and trying to pinch the shoulder blades together. Then roll the arms forward then backward in a rhythmic, rowing motion.

• Nonsteroidal ant inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or Tylenol

• Muscle relaxants can help ease spasms

• Physical Therapy and manual therapy for patients with refractory symptoms

• Ultrasound therapy

• Cervical (neck) traction

• Soft neck collar may help support the head and relieve pressure on the neck