Introduction

A neck sprain refers to an injury to a ligament, while a neck strain is a muscle injury - a pulled muscle. These two terms are often used interchangeably (and incorrectly) when describing neck pain. When a neck strain occurs as a result of a specific injury, athletes and coaches might simply refer to it as a jammed neck.

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How it Happens

The exact cause is not clear, but irritation of either the ligaments or stretched, overused muscles can cause a neck ache.

In golfers and tennis players, it's more likely to be caused by overuse. In contact sport athletes, a neck strain happens when a player gets hit and the neck is suddenly, forcefully flexed forward or extended backward. Getting hit from behind is a particular risk and exposes the athlete to a whiplash-type injury.

In any case, the soft tissues can be damaged and will need time and treatment to heal.

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Treatment

Initial Treatment

If there is any possibility that a serious neck or spine injury has occurred, the athlete should not move or be moved. Send for emergency medical assistance immediately. Clues pointing toward a serious injury are leg pain, arm pain, a tingling sensation or numbness. In milder, routine neck strains, follow these guidelines:

• Rest until the symptoms subside. Give your neck time to heal.
• Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day for the first 48-72 hours.
• After 48-72 hours, apply moist heat 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day to relieve pain.Aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen may relieve pain. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen may relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• See a chiropractor if the pain persists for 1-2 weeks.

Long Term Treatment

Blows to the head and neck may not be avoidable, but you can take a few measures to reduce the risk of neck strains.

• Do not increases the frequency, duration, or intensity of exercise more than 10 percent a week.
• Take breaks when your sport allows it.
• Wear protective equipment appropriate for your sport.
• Use a foam roll to gently massage the neck.
• Come in and visit the chiropractor to receive a personalized plan for recovery today.

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Make an Appointment

By Phone

Call us at (858) 452-3734 and our helpful front office staff will be happy to assist you in making an appointment with Doctor Todd Plutchok, D.C.

E-mail Us With Your Appointment Request

You can email us with your appointment request here by emailing  DrTodd@TheSportsAndWellnessDC.com.  Just send us your Name, Email Address, and Phone Number, with your desired time.  Initial Visits normally last 45-55 minutes.  For normal clinic hours, click here.

Download New Patient Admittance Forms

Please Click on the links below to download our New Patient Admittance Forms.  Take a few moments to fill out the forms before your appointment, and give the forms to our office staff.  You can fax them to (858)-452-6666he links below to download our New Patient Admittance Forms.  Take a few moments to fill out the forms before your appointment, and give the forms to our office staff.  You can fax them to (858)-452-6666