Question

Hi, doctor. In recent years, my neck is always hurting, and my shoulders ache as well especially after a prolonged period of lowering the head. Also, I have mild headaches, dizziness, and numbness in arms at the same time. I think that is connected to my job. I am a writer, so I have to type and stare at the computer screen all day, sometimes maybe all night. I did not mind these inconveniences until they affected my daily movements. Last night, I stayed up and watched the World Cup on TV, but afterwards was too tired to go to bed and fell asleep on the couch. This morning, when I woke up, my neck was too stiff to move my head and I was in extreme pain. Also, my right hand is too weak to hold heavy objects. I have problems moving, nodding or turning my head because of the sharp pain. Additionally, my chest feels hot and tight when I turn around. What is wrong with me? Do you have any methods to relieve the pain?

Main Symptoms

Answer

In general, neck pain is caused by cervical spondylosis, strain (caused by sleeping posture or exercise) and trauma (caused by accident). According to your description, I think you have been suffering from cervical spondylosis for years. Plus sleeping on the couch for a whole night can make things worse.

Cervical spondylosis is a curable disease that is common in orthopaedic disorders. It is a sign of degeneration of the cervical disk (caused by ageing), affecting the nerves, senses, and tissues around the cervical artery. That is why you have neck and shoulder pains, headaches with dizziness, and week and numb arms. In addition, previous traumas, bad habits, and poor posture can be the causes of cervical spondylosis. Also, the nerve has a complete system in the body in terms of motion and feeling, so that the position around your neck could be affected, such as the tightness in the chest.

Chinese medicine explains that people who suffer from cold or dampness can easily get neck pain, because the cold and dampness attacks can block the blood circulation in the neck, which means that blood and oxygen will not be transmitted to the surrounding area. Applying the affected area with a warm washcloth and massage helps to increase blood circulation and relieve the pain.

Here are some suggestions for you:

•  Avoid cold and dampness in the neck. Dry your hair as quickly as possible after washing. Keep the collar dry. Protect your neck from low temperatures when using air conditioning or electric fans and riding a bike.

•  Relax your neck and head after watching TV or using a computer every 30 to 40 minutes. Although the extreme pain can keep your neck from moving flexibly, doing proper exercises is beneficial in removing the blockage and relieving the pain. Try tilting your head forwards and backwards and to the left and right. Then swing the head from side to side. Repeat 10 times in each direction. 

•  Do not sleep on the couch and get yourself an orthopaedic pillow available in many stores that sell beds. A wrong sleeping posture may worsen your condition. 

•  Apply some medical ointments that can relieve muscles and joints by speeding up blood circulation. You can find ‘Penetrex Pain Relief Cream’ and ‘Bengay Ultra Strength Cream’ over the counter in a pharmacy. 

•  Eat high-protein and calcium-rich foods, such as Pork Bone Soup and milk. 

Ask a Question Related unknown illness