FAQs
A pinched nerve in your neck can cause pain that radiates toward your shoulder. This is also known as cervical radiculopathy. Cervical radiculopathy most often comes from changes in your spine due to aging or injury. Bone spurs can cause a pinching of the nerves that run through the hollow space in the vertebrae.
How do I get instant relief from neck and shoulder pain? ›
First, ease the early intense pain with rest, ice, and heat; then move on to gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. Later, avoid bad posture and other habits that could trigger another neck pain crisis. The causes of routine strain-and-sprain neck pain vary.
What is the best painkiller for neck and shoulder pain? ›
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen help reduce inflammation and decrease discomfort. Acetaminophen and naproxen are other over-the-counter medicines that can effectively relieve the pain of a stiff neck.
How do I know if my neck and shoulder pain is serious? ›
You may want to see a doctor if your symptoms linger for longer than a week of self care, or if you have numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm or hand, or if your pain was caused by a fall, blow, or injury.
What are the red flags for neck and shoulder pain? ›
Seek immediate medical care if neck pain is associated with the following symptoms: Severe pain. Tingling, numbness or weakness in arm, shoulder or hands. Radiating pain.
What is the treatment for neck and shoulder pain? ›
medication, such as acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or muscle relaxants. wearing a soft cervical collar. ice, heat, and other local therapies. steroid-based injections, such as a cervical epidural block, cervical facet joint block, or medial branch block.
What drink helps neck pain? ›
Keeping hydrated can help decrease general neck pain and even the severity and frequency of tension headaches. Drinking water helps in regulating blood pressure, which can help with those “throbbing” headaches. Try to drink 2.5-3 liters of water daily, not soda or other liquids, for best results.
How should I sleep with neck and shoulder pain? ›
Sleeping on your side or back can help you keep the stress off your neck and manage pain. You should avoid sleeping on your stomach if possible. Sleeping on your stomach puts your neck at an awkward angle that may make your pain worse.
What gel is good for neck and shoulder pain? ›
You can try Voltarol gels for neck pain caused by sprains, strains, and bruises of your muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints. The powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient in Voltarol Gel and Plaster relieves pain and reduces inflammation, helping to speed up natural healing. So you can get back to enjoying moving again!
Is walking good for neck and shoulder pain? ›
Sitting and spending many hours in front of a computer are significant contributors to neck and shoulder pain. “Even just getting out of that position – walking, swimming, cycling or anything that gets you moving – can be enough to relieve the pain,” Sterling says.
Stand or sit erect with cnin tucked in close to chest. Turn head slowly to right, trying to bring your chin over your right shoulder Hold for three seconds; rotate head back to center position. Pause. Repeat in opposite direction.
What is the first aid treatment for neck and shoulder pain? ›
Alternate heat and cold.
Reduce inflammation by applying cold, such as an ice pack or ice wrapped in a towel, for up to 15 minutes several times a day during the first 48 hours. After that, use heat. Try taking a warm shower or using a heating pad on the low setting.
What organs can cause neck and shoulder pain? ›
Issues involving your heart, lungs, abdominal organs, and spinal cord can all cause shoulder pain and sometimes neck pain. Take your symptoms seriously and see your healthcare provider as soon as you can after neck or shoulder pain starts.
What does it mean when you have pain between your shoulder and neck? ›
Sometimes it's caused by a pulled muscle or an injury, such as a shoulder separation. But it can also be a sign of something more serious, like heart disease or cancer. If you're feeling this type of pain, particularly if it's worsening or persistent, see your healthcare provider.
Should I go to the doctor for neck and shoulder pain? ›
Schedule an office visit
Call your doctor if you have neck pain that: Worsens in spite of self-care. Persists after several weeks of self-care. Radiates down your arms or legs.