How Can Muscle Spasms In The Neck Be Treated?

Posted on Mon, 19 Jun 2017

Question: I am experiencing discomfort in my right side of neck muscle to upper back. It aches but does not hinder movement. I have iced and took ibuprofen. Has lasted about 2 weeks.

Answered by Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
differential diagnosis evaluation require certain details to be provided .

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX,
I evaluated your query thoroughly .
* Different clinical situations give rise to this as
- muscle spasm / sprain - cervical spondylosis - neuralgic origin - trauma -
- cervical lymph node enlargement - sub mandibular / parotid gland lesion
- gum problems - others
* Would like to have further details from you for better detail evaluation of it
1. origin of discomfort after any particular action like rotation or else
2. discomfort duration of each session means continuous or intermittently ,
frequency , aggravating and relieving factors ( how much improved after
ibuprofen in 2 weeks )
3. sleep pattern
4. associated ear ache , swelling over neck , upper back ; fever , pain in
nape area , gum pain , overlying skin changes if any
5. any other systemic issue present , any other medicines than ibuprofen
6. sleep normal or disturbed due to this
7. can chew food properly
8. any other information you would like to share
Thanks for using Healthcaremagic.com & giving me an opportunity to assist you
in your medical needs .
Awaiting for your details .
Regards .

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (55 minutes later)

No discomfort when making any movement.
Discomfort is intermittent. Comes and goes.
Normal sleep pattern.
Had a little right ear discomfort, however, flush ear and has improved.
No swelling, no skin changes
If get up in night to go to bathroom sometimes can feel discomfort, but not always.
Can chew ok.
Only using ibuprofen.

Answered by Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
most probably muscle related . helpful guidelines suggested.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX
* More of muscular involvement .
* Suggested guidelines for better recovery
- avoid sudden jerky movements / severe angular rotation of the neck
- normal gradual movements of neck from left to right & reverse help to relieve muscle spasms
- continue ibuprofen if feeling much better or can add acetaminophen (325)mg on OTC basis 3
times a day after meals
- avoid hard food which require more of mastication
- avoid thick pillows while resting
- continue ice application 4 times a day
- avoid smoking if doing
- no evaluations required at present , may think if needed in coming time
- follow up after 7 days
Hope this helps you .
Welcome for any further assistance .
Wishing you fine recovery from the same .
Regards dear take care .

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad