Over 1.71 billion people worldwide live with musculoskeletal conditions that cause pain, limit mobility, and lead to disability. Most musculoskeletal pain involves the neck, shoulders, and back due to conditions like arthritis or other injuries.
If you have problems with neck and shoulder pain, it can sometimes feel that the pain will never go away. The good news is that learning more about neck and shoulder pain relief options will help you find treatments that work for your situation.
Keep reading this guide to learn what you need to know about treating neck pain and shoulder pain!
Overview of Neck and Shoulder Pain
Shoulder and neck pain that occurs at the same time are usually the result of an injury like a sprain or strain. It can also be from whiplash, rotator cuff tears, or arthritis.
Pain can be mild to severe, and you’ll usually have symptoms like:
- Stiffness
- Spasms
- Soreness
- Shooting pains
- Numbness
- Tingling
If you suddenly start experiencing severe neck and shoulder pain, see a doctor immediately to rule out serious causes like a heart condition.
Neck and Shoulder Pain Treatment Options
If you have mild neck and shoulder pain, it’s best to try home remedies first. If your pain is moderate to severe and limiting your range of motion, you should see your doctor for an exam.
Treatment options you should try include:
Home remedies
Don’t discount the power of home remedies. Taking steps to reduce pain at home can lessen your healing time overall:
- Take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers
- Try OTC topical creams to relieve pain
- Use an ice pack for 20 minutes five times a day to reduce swelling
- Apply warm compresses
- Take a break from activities that aggravate the pain
- Gently massage your shoulder and neck area
Finally, wearing a shoulder wrap can compress the area and reduce pain and swelling.
Stretches and Exercises
Stretches and exercises are great shoulder and neck pain treatment options, but you need to take them slowly.
Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist who will give you stretching exercises to do at home. You can also do mild stretching on your own.
First, sit down and relax while tilting your head forward to touch your chin to your chest. Hold this position for 10 seconds. Tilt your head straight back gently until you’re looking at the ceiling, and hold this position for 10 seconds.
To stretch your shoulder, stand in a doorway and bend both arms at the elbow to form a right angle. Your hands should be on the door frame. Lean forward to gently stretch the area under your collarbone and hold for 10 seconds.
Visit a Chiropractor
Seeing a chiropractor for neck pain and shoulder pain can also be very helpful.
Your shoulders and neck contain various nerves, bones, muscles, and ligaments. Once you have neck pain, it’s easier to develop soreness in your shoulder.
A chiropractor can ensure all the supporting structures of your neck and shoulder work as they should. They use a holistic approach to relieve neck pain, like chiropractic adjustments.
Neck pain also involves chiropractic treatments like posture correction, exercises, soft tissue massage, and lifestyle changes. These treatments will help with neck pain, which often resolves shoulder pain.
Do thorough research to find a chiropractor in your area that you’re comfortable with.
Get Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief Today
Now that you know more about neck and shoulder pain relief options, you’ll be better able to find a treatment plan that works for you.
Don’t hesitate to see your doctor again if these treatments don’t relieve your pain. If you’ve had a serious injury, steroid injections or surgery may be necessary.
Be sure to visit the rest of our blog today to learn more helpful health and lifestyle tips.
