Cures for Crick in the Neck

A crick in the neck is a common occurrence that most people have experienced at one time or another in their lives. It is a feeling of pain and stiffness in the neck and is usually associated with difficulty sleeping, bad position when sleeping, inadequate pillows or sleeping in unfamiliar or unusual places. The pain usually resolves in a day or two; if it does not, you should see your doctor.

Apply an Icepack

Applying an icepack will help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the muscles and tendons. Apply a towel around the neck and lay an ice bag on the affected area for 15-20 minutes, then take it off for 40 minutes. Repeat.

Try Some Heat

A heating pad or warm cloth on the neck can help relax and loosen muscles and tendons, relieving a crick in the neck. Be careful not to burn the skin on the neck.

Gentle Exercise

It is better to move the affected area than to give in to the pain. Do some gentle stretches and turns of the neck. Dont overdo. As the muscles and tendons loosen up, increase activity.

Massage Carefully

Massage can help calm the muscle spasms that cause a crick in the neck, but be very gentle in the beginning while the area is still sore. As the muscles loosen and pain subsides, increase the depth of the massage.

Take Pain Medication

Ibuprofen, Tylenol or Aleve can be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation of muscles, tendons and ligaments of the neck. Do not exceed the recommended dosage of these medications. If pain persists or grows worse, see your doctor immediately

When to See the Doctor

If after following these steps, you still have pain, or if the pain continues after a week or grows worse, make an appointment to see your doctor. Pain like a crick in the neck can be a sign of more serious illness or injury. Arthritis can cause neck pain. Meningitis is a serious illness that can cause neck pain. Your physician will take an X-ray or get an MRI of your neck to see if there are problems with the bones or soft tissues surrounding the spine. The doctor may also order blood tests to see if there is an underlying infection or disease.

Preventing Cricks in the Neck

Make sure your bedding is comfortable and offers support for head, back and neck. Avoid falling asleep in sofas, armchairs or on public transportation. Try extra pillows or special head-and-neck pillows if frequent crick in the neck are a problem. Check your position while working to make sure you are not putting undue pressure on neck vertebrae. Take breaks from work and stretch out arms, back and neck.