In case of minor injuries or strains home care is considered sufficient enough to decrease the pain and other associated symptoms. Application of an ice pack during the first 24–48 h following such incident is useful in the prevention of swelling. Frequent application of ice packs is recommended. After 48 h application of heat packs may be helpful in reliving the symptoms. Gentle massage in the area of stiffness (not to be performed if it is painful) usually improves blood circulation and relaxes the stiff muscles. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, aceclofenac or diclofenac sodium or certain pain relieving creams are useful in relieving the pain.

 

A doctor should always be consulted in case of:

The treatment of the neck pain is generally based on the underlying cause of the pain. The doctors may prescribe medications that belong to the group of muscle relaxants, narcotic pain relievers or antidepressants. The type of medication, its dosage and duration is dependent on the underlying cause of the neck pain.

The presence of a tumour or pressure on the nerves due to narrowing of the bones may require surgical correction.^1–3