What causes stiffness in the neck muscles?

Under normal circumstances, stiff neck muscles may be caused by poor posture, neck exposure to cold, neck and shoulder muscle strain, cervical spondylosis, cervical disc herniation, or other conditions. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Poor posture: Prolonged低头 using mobile phones or working at a desk keeps neck muscles in a constant state of tension, leading to stiff neck muscles. Correct sitting and standing postures should be adopted. Take breaks every hour to move the neck—perform actions such as tilting the head backward and turning it side to side—to relax the muscles.

2. Neck exposure to cold: Cold stimulation causes blood vessels in the neck muscles to constrict, impairing circulation and resulting in stiffness. Applying heat packs to the neck can improve blood flow. Wearing scarves to keep the neck warm and avoiding further cold exposure is also recommended.

3. Neck and shoulder muscle strain: Repeated neck movements or excessive physical strain over time can lead to muscle overuse injury, causing stiffness and pain. Patients may use medications such as diclofenac diethylamine gel, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or naproxen tablets under medical supervision to relieve pain. Massage and physical therapy can also help relax the muscles.

4. Cervical spondylosis: Degenerative changes in the cervical spine or disc protrusion may compress surrounding tissues, causing neck muscle stiffness and pain. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as mecobalamin tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, or Jingfukang granules to nourish nerves and alleviate symptoms. Traction therapy may also be used in combination to reduce cervical compression.

5. Cervical disc herniation: Protrusion of the cervical intervertebral disc compresses nerve roots, causing neck muscle spasms and stiffness, possibly accompanied by numbness in the upper limbs. In severe cases, an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery may be required to relieve nerve compression, restore cervical stability, and alleviate stiffness and pain.

Daily habits should include maintaining proper neck posture, avoiding prolonged periods of looking down, and choosing pillows with appropriate height to support the cervical spine. During free time, perform neck exercises to strengthen neck muscles and reduce the likelihood of developing stiff neck muscles.