Severe neck and head pain: Key tips to avoid

Neck, head and back pain can range from a weak, regular ache to a sudden, sharp pain. It suddenly comes and the pain lasts from a few days to a few weeks.If it lasts for more than three months then the pain becomes chronic. If your pain is severe or doesn’t improve after three days, you should seek medical attention.

There are different kinds of treatments.

For medical management:

1. Drug therapy:

NSAID (non–steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which is a muscle relaxant, is of good help. It relieves mild to moderate back pain that doesn’t get better with OTC (over the counter) pain relievers.

Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, have been shown to relieve chronic backpain, independent of their effect on depression.

2. Physical therapy and exercise

Exercise, however, maybe useful for people with chronic back pain to help them return to normal activities and work

3. Injections: Cortisone-anti inflammatory medication

4. Surgery is usually reserved for pain caused by a ruptured disk. If you have rigid pain or progressive muscle weakness caused by nerve compression, you may benefit from surgery. Non prescription medications may provide relief from pain.

The type of treatment you need will depend on whether your neck pain is caused by activities, an injury, or another illness.

A short period of bed rest and a small pillow under the nape of your neck to provide proper neutral positioning maybe necessary. Trying counter pain relievers and a cervical collar maybe beneficial. Dry or moist heat applied to the area can give relief..

NSAID non –steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs),like Ibuprofen and Opioid like codeine must be prescribed by your doctor. Muscle relaxants are available by prescription only. Over the counter pain relievers and resting can prove beneficial.

You should stay active and complete your daily work as tolerated, unless this involves heavy physical labor.