The cervical contracture occurs when the muscles around the cervical vertebraes, they shall return rigid as a result of multiple factors. This condition generates pain and affects the normal life of the person who suffers from it.. This contracture often also can cause dizziness and headaches. If the condition persists, the neck may lose its normal curve and become straight, which generates pain in the back and in the neck itself.
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Things you should know about cervical contracture
This condition affects a large number of people and can even lead to a chronic neck pain. It is a discomfort that extends from the neck to the area of the interscapular back and its duration can last up to 12 weeks. The good news is that in most cases there is no need to worry about suffering from a cervical contracture., since with a visit to the physical therapist is enough.
It is worth mentioning that the chronic neck pain often it is rather a consequence of some type of home or traffic accident. Let us remember that the main function of the cervical vertebrae is to keep the head upright.. This means that it is an area where tension builds up easily., especially if we subject our body to a bad posture.
Therefore, the cervical area has been identified as a very common source of pain between people of any age, sex and particularly among those people who usually have long working hours in front of the computer who are simply exposed to high stress situations on a daily basis.
What happens if the cervical contracture is not treated on time?
If the cervical contracture is not treated on time, this condition can cause problems, not to mention the inconvenience and discomfort. Consequently Seeing a physical therapist is essential. in case this type of condition is experienced. This specialist is the most appropriate person to indicate the treatment to be followed., as well as exercises that can be done at home to relax the affected area or avoid problems in the future.
All Cervical contractures must be treated by a qualified professional in physical therapy, but it is also a fact that these types of ailments can be prevented by practicing exercises that help us improve our posture, as well as our muscle tone. This can be fine with pilates, yoga or included with tai chi.
If you create a habit of doing any of these activities, the chances of suffering from a cervical contracture decrease considerably, so it is a good idea to practice them regularly.
How to treat a cervical contracture?
Below we will share the instructions for treat a cervical contracture at home, always bearing in mind that You should see a physical therapy specialist. in case the pain persists or worsens.
First, when experiencing discomfort in the neck, what to do is place some dry heat. This can be an electric blanket at half power and for periods between 5 a 10 minutes several times a day. This treatment is effective because the heat relaxes the muscles and prevents pain..
It is also an option taking anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants, although it is not entirely recommended since these medications are not filtered by the liver, so it can lead to muscle injuries when it is altered.
Of course, all things that can cause a cervical contracture should be avoided., including emotional stress, inadequate stress management, regular lack of exercise, a poor diet, as well as a bad posture when sleeping, etc.
In case the contracture lasts for a long time or the pain is very severe, It is best to see a physical therapist immediately.. This specialist can offer a series of exercises indicated to perform every day, including muscle strengthening without feeling pain
It is also recommended Exercise daily, especially yoga or pilates, since this significantly reduces the appearance of discomfort, in addition to helping us maintain a proper posture during the day.
It is ideal to do relaxation exercises, mainly when waking up and before going to bed, as this can help channel the emotional tensions that build up throughout the day. It is recommended to take short breaks during daily tasks, think positively and do exercises to control your breathing.
Some Natural medicine for cervical contractures include medicinal plants with anti-inflammatory properties as the case of ginger or nettle tea.
First of all, always take care to maintain proper posture when sitting, standing or lying in bed. If the pain is too intense, It is advisable to go to a physiotherapist to indicate the treatment to follow..