Fact Checked
Neck spasm has a variety of possible causes. It is important to note that a spasm is an involuntary tightening of a muscle. The discomfort can last for minutes, hours or even days after the muscle relaxes and the spasm settles.
What are the causes?
Some of the common causes of neck spasms include:
- Carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder
- Strain while exercise
- Carrying heavy objects with one or both arms
- Unnatural positioning of the neck for an extended span of time
- Poor posture
If neck spasms occur, the individual feels an abrupt, piercing pain in one or several parts of the neck. - Headache
- Dehydration
Characteristics
If neck spasms occur, the individual feels an abrupt, piercing pain in one or several parts of the neck. Additionally, the affected muscle seems tight or hard. There is also discomfort when the neck is moved around.
Management of neck spasms
For a minor case of neck spasms, it can be managed without medical intervention. In most cases, certain forms of exercises are also beneficial.
Some of the commonly used home remedies include:
- Over-the-counter pain medications – these drugs help relieve the muscle tension by lowering the inflammation.
- Ice pack – the cold works by dulling the nerve action to stop or reduce the muscle spasms. The application must be done at a maximum of 10 minutes at a time. It can be reapplied as often as once in an hour.
- Massage – the pressure applied on the neck muscles promotes relaxation and lessens the tension, thus reducing the neck spasms. Massage can be done by pressing in a gentle but firm manner into the taut region of the neck and create small circles using the fingers.