What causes the tightness in the head associated with cervical spondylosis?

Aug 06, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

In general, tightness in the head and neck area caused by cervical spondylosis may be due to long-term poor posture, neck exposure to cold, cervical disc herniation, cervical bone spurs (osteophytes), or neck muscle fasciitis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at a qualified hospital. In daily life, one should choose a pillow with an appropriate height to maintain the natural physiological curvature of the cervical spine and strengthen neck muscle exercises.

Generally, a tight feeling in the head caused by cervical spondylosis may be triggered by long-term poor posture, neck exposure to cold, cervical disc herniation, cervical bone spurs, neck myofascial inflammation, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at a reputable hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Long-term poor posture

Constantly looking down at a phone or computer screen or working bent over a desk can keep the cervical spine in an overly flexed position, stretching the neck muscles and ligaments and affecting head blood circulation, leading to a tight feeling in the head. Daily adjustments to sitting and standing posture are necessary. Take a break every hour to move and stretch the neck by lifting the head up and turning it left and right, thus relaxing the neck muscles.

2. Neck exposure to cold

Direct exposure of the neck to cold wind or being in a cold environment can cause neck blood vessel constriction and poor circulation, resulting in a tight sensation in the head. It is important to keep the neck warm by wearing a scarf in cold weather, avoiding direct blowing from air conditioners or fans on the neck, and applying heat therapy to the neck to promote blood circulation.

3. Cervical disc herniation

Herniated cervical discs can compress surrounding nerves and blood vessels, affecting brain blood supply and causing a tight feeling in the head, often accompanied by neck pain and arm numbness. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as celecoxib capsules, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets can be used to relieve pain. Cervical traction and physical therapy can also be combined to improve symptoms.

4. Cervical bone spurs

Cervical bone spurs narrow the cervical space, irritating or compressing the vertebral artery and surrounding tissues, leading to insufficient blood supply to the brain and a tight feeling in the head. As directed by a physician, medications such as eperisone hydrochloride tablets, chlorzoxazone tablets, and muscle-relaxing and blood circulation-improving tablets can be used to relieve muscle tension and improve local blood circulation. Rehabilitation exercises may also be necessary.

5. Neck myofascial inflammation

Neck muscles and fascia may develop aseptic inflammation due to strain or injury, causing neck muscle tension and spasms, which can pull on the head, creating a tight sensation. Under medical guidance, topical applications such as diclofenac diethylamine gel, flurbiprofen gel patches, and oral meloxicam tablets can be used. Avoid excessive neck strain and engage in appropriate massage and relaxation.

In daily life, choose a pillow of suitable height to maintain the natural physiological curve of the cervical spine; strengthen neck muscle exercises, such as cervical health exercises; and avoid sudden head turns or vigorous exercise to reduce the risk of cervical injury. If the tight feeling in the head persists or worsens, or is accompanied by dizziness, nausea, or other symptoms, timely medical consultation and examination are necessary to determine the condition and receive appropriate treatment.

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