Neck Pain and Shoulder Pain: However, Whenever, Wherever the Pain, There Is WhatEver Pockits
Neck pain-shoulder pain are common conditions. The most common cause of neck and shoulder pain is injury to the soft tissues, including the muscles, tendons, and ligaments within these structures. A pain in the neck can be caused by something as simple as poor posture or something as dramatic as an automobile accident. Usually, though, neck pain is the result of muscle strain or tension. Examples include bending over a desk for hours, having poor posture while watching TV or reading, poor computer ergonomics, sleeping in an uncomfortable position or twisting and turning the neck in an abrupt way. Shoulder pain can be the result of injury to the shoulder muscles, joints or ligaments. Sometimes pain in the neck and pain in the shoulder are related.
Cold Therapy for Neck Pain-Shoulder Pain
Ice is generally used to treat acute injuries. Ice works by decreasing inflammation, which reduces pain. Use ice for the first 48 to 72 hours to help decrease inflammation. Always use ice for around 10 to 20 minutes and then remove it for at least an hour before applying it again. Do not apply heat in the first week after an injury because it can increase the swelling in the injured area and worsen your pain.
Heat Therapy for Neck Pain-Shoulder Pain
To relax a sore muscle heat is generally used. Heat works by bringing blood into muscle and allowing the injured tissue to heal. Apply\ heat after using ice for the first 48 to 72 hours. This can be with a hot shower or a moist or dry heat wrap. Ten to 15 minutes of heat are acceptable, with at least an hour in between. It is important not to apply heat for too long because too much heat can increase inflammation and pain.
If the source or cause of the neck-shoulder pain are not known, or if symptoms suggest you might have a more serious condition, you should contact your doctor while initiating basic care measures.
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