What should I do about a stiff neck?
Feb 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
In medical terms, stiff neck is known as trapezius muscle spasm. In general, trapezius muscle spasm may be caused by factors such as exposure to cold, muscle strain, muscle fatigue, calcium deficiency, or shoulder periarthritis. It can be improved through conservative treatments including heat therapy, acupuncture, oral medications, and topical medications. If trapezius muscle spasm occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
Wry neck is medically known as trapezius muscle spasm. In general, possible causes of trapezius muscle spasm include exposure to cold, muscle strain, muscle fatigue, calcium deficiency, and shoulder periarthritis. The condition can be improved through general treatments, heat therapy, acupuncture, oral medications, or topical medications. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. General Treatment
Trapezius muscle spasm may result from excessive physical activity leading to muscle strain. If the muscles do not relax in time, surrounding tissues may become overly tense, causing abnormal contraction and relaxation, thus triggering trapezius spasm. Massaging the neck and shoulder area can help relieve tension.
2. Heat Therapy
Frequent exposure of the trapezius muscle to cold air may impair local blood circulation, resulting in muscle tightness and spasm, causing neck stiffness and pain. Applying localized heat can alleviate muscle spasms, improve blood flow, and soothe nerves.
3. Acupuncture Therapy
Prolonged shoulder or upper-body activity may lead to trapezius muscle fatigue and subsequent spasm. Patients can visit a qualified medical institution where professional practitioners perform acupuncture on specific acupoints such as Waiguan (SJ5), Fengchi (GB20), and Fengfu (GV16) to relax tendons, unblock meridians, and relieve acute pain.
4. Oral Medications
Trapezius muscle spasm may also stem from long-term picky eating, leading to malnutrition and insufficient calcium intake. Calcium deficiency in the body can easily trigger muscle spasms. Under medical guidance, patients may take calcium supplements such as calcium carbonate tablets or calcium gluconate oral solution.
5. Topical Medications
Trapezius muscle spasm may also be caused by shoulder periarthritis. Under a doctor's supervision, anti-inflammatory treatment can be administered using topical agents such as Qingpeng Ointment or Yunnan Baiyao Spray.
If trapezius muscle spasm occurs, it is recommended to visit a reputable hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment promptly to avoid delaying recovery.
