How to Treat a Stiff Neck

Cervical sprain, also known as acute cervical periarthritis, is caused by sudden stretching, twisting, or prolonged maintaining of a single posture in the neck muscles.

Treatment methods for cervical sprain:

1. Rest and protection: Avoid excessive neck movement and reduce the burden on the neck. Use a suitable pillow to maintain the natural curvature of the cervical spine, avoiding pillows that are too high or too low. Avoid prolonged periods of working with the head down or maintaining a fixed posture; change positions regularly and appropriately stretch the neck muscles.

2. Massage therapy: Begin massaging with both hands from the painful area gradually toward the shoulders, repeating each cycle 3-4 times, and gently tap with the fists where there is significant soreness. Additionally, apply pressure to acupoints such as Jianjing (shoulder well), Fengchi (wind pool), and Luozhen (cervical sprain), holding pressure on each point for 2-3 minutes, which helps relieve muscle tension.

3. Medication: Choose topical plasters that promote blood circulation and unblock meridians, such as Xiaotong plaster or Wantong muscle and bone plasters, or take oral anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, such as ibuprofen or diclofenac sodium, to reduce pain and inflammation.

4. Heat therapy: Apply a hot towel or hot water bottle to the neck for 10-20 minutes, twice daily, which helps promote blood circulation and relieve muscle spasms.

5. Exercise therapy: Perform movements such as forward and backward bending and left and right rotation of the head and neck to relax muscles and improve circulation, promoting recovery. However, movements should be gentle to avoid exacerbating the pain.

If symptoms of cervical sprain persist beyond a week or are accompanied by severe headache, arm numbness, weakness, or other symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical treatment at a hospital immediately.