Neck muscle pain

[tlm1229]

For almost a month now I've been waking up every morning with a painful neck muscle. It's located in the back of my neck on the left side just above where the shoulder and neck meet. It's most noticeable when I turn or move my head in certain ways. It's at its worst first thing in the morning and is less noticeable throughout the day. I've tried changing pillows, heating pads and changing what position I sleep in. Is this likely just a pulled muscle thats slow to heal or is it something I should have checked out?

[Tuckamore]

Hi Tim,

Thanks for responding to my questions. I've been on vacation. Please excuse my tardy reply.

I think you need to consult your PCP. It's time, probably past time that you had this investigated. It's my bet that your PCP will begin with an x-ray and some PT - that's okay - it's the standard.

In time I think you'll require an MRI of your Cervical Spine. You may have some wear and tear going on in that area. Regardless of your age, discs can be involved and causing your pain - or it may be another structural issue but it's time to get it checked out.

I caution you against taking Aleve and Ibuprofen together. It's not a good idea and is contraindicated.  It may also cause GI problems that you sure don't need in addition to your cervical spine issues.  

Please let us know how you are doing. I'll look forward to hearing from you again soon.

Take Care of yourself,
~Tuck

[tlm1229]

Hi Tuckamore, I appreciate the reply. As for the specifics you asked bout, Ive been using NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aleve. Those do take the edge off but not significantly. Within the last week the pain feels like it's starting to move into my left shoulder, though it's not as painful as my neck is but still noticeable. Twice in the last week ive woken up with a headache but I assumed that was merely a coincidence. The only numbness or tingling I've had was in the fingers of my right hand at the tips. That lasted a couple of days, but it's gone now

[Tuckamore]

Hello Tim,

Welcome to our Pain Management Forum. I am glad that you found us and took the time to post.

I always suggest that ppl consult their physicians when they have pain for an extended period of time. You may be absolutely right, your pain could be due to a strained muscle. My concern is that after a month you have not noted an improvement. It may be time to consult your PCP.

Have you tried NSAIDs? If not you may want to talk to your Pharmacist and ask for a suggestion. NSAIDs can help with inflammation.

Be sure you inform your PCP of the length of your SX (symptoms) and the things you have done to treat it. Normally the first approach will be an x-ray - and wait an see. That's okay - but best you begin that wait and see now.

Do you have any other SX?  Numbness, tingling - or does the pain radiate any where?

I have some nasty things going on in my cervical spine. I know how painful that can be. My first SX were very similar to yours. Obviously that doesn't mean you have anything more than a soft tissue problem but again best to get it evaluated now.

I hope you'll let us know how you are doing. I'll look forward to hearing more from you.

Take Care,
~Tuck