Spasm of the muscles of the neck is an unpleasant condition, which for a time makes a person incapacitated and can cause the development of other pathologies. Muscle swelling and muscle tension are observed. The pathological process is due to compression of the vessels and nerve bundles passing through the neck, which may be due to various factors.
Symptoms of spasm of neck muscles
With a spasm of the muscles of the neck, there is a feeling of aching or pressing pain in the neck, giving to the shoulders or the back of the head, as well as hardening and sudden contractions of the muscles in the affected area. Often, there is a violation of the movement of the hands and head, there are difficulties in swallowing and breathing. Another common symptom for muscle spasm in the neck is a headache.
Causes of spasm of neck muscles
Here are the most common reasons for this state:
- sharp turn of the head;
- deficiency in the body of certain vitamins and minerals (in particular, vitamins of group B, D, potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium);
- long-term tension of the neck muscles due to physical exertion or being in an uncomfortable position;
- intervertebral hernia of cervical department;
- supercooling.
How to relieve spasm of the muscles of the neck?
First of all, it is required to ensure the peace of the muscle tissue, for which you can not make sudden movements, gymnastic exercises. This can lead to an increase in muscle fibers and the progression of pathology. To avoid overstrain of the muscles during sleep, you should sleep on an orthopedic pillow. Treatment for spasm of neck muscles depends on the causes that caused it, and can include the following:
- medicamental therapy (painkillers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, etc.);
- electrophoresis;
- manual therapy;
- acupuncture ;
- massage;
- application of local heat.
At home, as a first aid, you can take a tincture of valerian, attach a warmer to your neck or a warm compress, and carry a light neck massage with lavender oil.