If the neck pain does not decrease after having given the treatments suggested below for a few days, it is advisable to consult a doctor or a physiotherapist.

Acute phase

Repos. For a few days, avoid large amplitude neck movements. Do all the same light stretching, in non-painful directions (turn neck to look to the left, then to the right; flex the neck forward, bring back to the center, then flex to the left shoulder, and to the right; avoid movements of head rotation). the collier cervical should be avoided, as it creates weakness in the muscles and helps to prolong the healing time. Prolonged rest further helps to stiffen the joint and contributes to the development of chronic pain.

Ice. Applying ice to the painful area three or four times a day, for 10 to 12 minutes, eases the inflammation reaction. It is good to do this as long as the acute symptoms persist. There is no need to use cold compresses or “magic bags”: they are not cold enough and they heat up in a few minutes.

Medicines to relieve pain (pain relievers). Acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Atasol®) is often sufficient to relieve mild to moderate pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, etc.), acetylsalycilic acid (Aspirin®), naproxen (Anaprox®, Naprosyn®) and diclofenac (Voltaren®), also have an effect analgesic. However, they cause more side effects and should therefore be used in moderation. Inflammation following trauma is part of the healing process (different from inflammation in arthritis, for example) and does not necessarily need to be addressed. You can also use a cream based on anti-inflammatory drugs such as diclofenac (Voltaren emulgel®), which helps prevent systemic side effects.

The muscle relaxants can also help, but they make you drowsy (for example, Robaxacet® and Robaxisal®). To overcome this effect, it is recommended to take them at bedtime or in low doses during the day. They should not be used for more than a few days. These drugs contain an analgesic (acetaminophen for Robaxacet®, and ibuprofen for Robaxisal®). They should therefore be avoided at the same time as another pain reliever.

A doctor can suggest the most suitable class of pain medication, if necessary. In case of stronger pain, he may prescribe opioid pain relievers (morphine derivatives). When there is neurological pain, anticonvulsant drugs or other drugs that act on neurotransmitters may be prescribed.

During the acute phase, gentle massages can help temporarily relieve tension.

readjustment

When the neck pain decreases (after 24 to 48 hours), it is good to practice stretching exercises careful and progressive, several times a day.

It may be helpful to apply heat on the muscles just before starting the stretching exercises (using a moist compress warmed in the oven or a hot bath). The heat relaxes the muscles. After completing the exercises, you can apply ice.

A physiotherapist can be consulted if necessary. It seems that combining the marche home-made physical therapy and stretching exercises are more effective in relieving neck pain.

Corticosteroids and injections

In some cases, this option may be considered if previous treatments have proven ineffective. The corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory action.

An injection of lidocaine, a local anesthetic, in painful areas (trigger areas) has shown some efficacy. Doctors often combine lidocaine with a corticosteroid²⁷.

In case of chronic pain

Symptom log. It is good to be aware of the situations that give rise to the pain, to write them down and to discuss them with your doctor or physiotherapist. Do they get worse in the morning or at the end of the day? Should the layout of the workstation be evaluated by an ergonomist? Would a state of permanent stress create tension in the trapezius and in the neck?

Surgery. If there is compression of a nerve root in the neck area that would cause numbness or weakness in the arms, surgery may be indicated. A damaged intervertebral disc can also be removed by surgery. The vertebrae are then fused together.