Globally, in 2020, neck pain affected 203 million people, and the estimated global number of neck pain cases is projected to reach 269 million in 2025.
Neck pain affects many people, causing ongoing discomfort and financial strain. Whether you’re bending over a computer or stooping at a workbench, a sudden twinge can take you by surprise, affecting your daily routine and how you feel.
Knowing the causes and available treatments, including non-surgical options like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, can help you handle pain and stop future problems.
Let’s explore the causes and effective ways to treat your neck pain.
Common Causes of Sudden Neck Pain
There can be several everyday factors that can contribute to the abrupt onset of neck discomfort. One of the most frequent culprits is muscle strain or a sprain.
Here are some of the common causes of sudden neck pain:
- Poor Posture – Most cases of sudden neck pain are a sign of “tech neck,” or the forward head posture that occurs due to hunching over a computer or smartphone screen.
- Whiplash Injury – A sudden jerk or extension of the neck, due to sports activities or a minor accident, can damage soft tissue, causing injury and pain in the neck.
- Stress and Tension – A sudden neck pain can also occur due to ongoing stress, causing muscle tightness and sudden discomfort in the neck.
- Cervical Radiculopathy – A herniated disc or bony changes can compress or irritate a nerve, causing sudden, acute pain.
- Sleeping position –Sleeping in an awkward or at a bad angle can cause strain in neck muscles and pain.
Symptoms to Watch
Sudden neck pain can cause sharp, intense pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving your neck. Here are some common symptoms to watch for –
- Difficult to move or turn your neck
- Aching pain that worsens after a long period
- Numbness or tingling in the shoulder or fingers, and radiating pain down the arm
- Burning pain extending to the shoulder, arm, or hand.
- Headaches, dizziness, or tingling in the arms
- Localised pain in the neck, muscle stiffness, and referred pain to the nearby areas.
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a specialist in neck pain.
How to Fix a Sudden Neck Pain
Neck pain can be caused by poor posture combined with age-related wear and tear. Here are some of the ways to fix a sudden neck pain:
Home Remedies –
- Rest and adjust your activities to avoid movements that worsen the pain.
- Reduce inflammation and muscle tension by applying heat or ice packs to the affected area.
- Stretching exercises help improve flexibility and reduce pain.
- Improve posture, especially when sitting at a desk or using electronic devices.
- Manage stress techniques like yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature can help ease tension.
Non-surgical Treatment –
- Over-the-counter pain relief, with medical advice, can help manage mild discomfort.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy involves injecting concentrated healing factors from your own blood into the affected area to promote healing and reduce pain.
- A specialist guides physical therapy to tailor exercises that focus on correcting posture, strengthening muscles, and improving flexibility.
If the pain is severe, consult a doctor or a physical therapist to help determine the cause of your neck pain and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
Conclusion
Sudden neck pain can be alarming, while it can often be attributed to simple muscle strain, it’s essential to be aware of other potential causes and accompanying symptoms.
Understanding the cause and symptoms can help you manage pain and take steps to prevent future episodes. Moreover, home remedies and non-surgical treatments, such as gentle exercises, medications, and PRP, can help accelerate healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.
The specialist at Epione Hospital & Pain Management Centre in Bangalore is one of India’s leading pain management centres and a trusted partner, providing personalised care and treatment plans.
