Learn how to avoid stiff neck, quite common in the daily dental surgeon
You turn your head and suddenly, the neck lock. Torticollis got you. In addition to limiting the movement, the problem causes tension and pain in the neck and may spread
Few people know, but a muscle with a complicated name – sternocleidomastoid -, broad and robust, located on the side of the neck, is mainly engaged in the issue.
“The stiff neck joint can occur due to a trauma, a sudden movement, poor posture or appear without any apparent cause, “says neurosurgeon Alexandre Elias, a specialist in spine and musculoskeletal pain, the Reference Center for Pain and Functional Neurosurgery Hospital on July 9 in Sao Paulo.
‘s position while sleeping can also lead to torticollis. Therefore, care is needed not only with the way you lie, but with the choice of pillow, which can not be soft or too hard.
“The recommendation regarding the size, thickness and material varies according to the way each sleep. But anyway, he should be under the head, shoulders never to leave the head in alignment with the spine. And to throw aside the ear should be in the same shoulder line, “teaches chiropractor Jason Gilbert, of St. Paul, author of” The secret of healthy spine – Follow the steps for a column without pain “(Editora Gaia). Can you deal ? Why hurt, the first step in the treatment of torticollis usually medication. “It may involve pain reliever, muscle relaxant or anti-inflammatory. At this point do not try to force or stretch the region, because the picture may get worse. “Alexandre said Dr. Elias. Then analgesic therapy is indicated, with applications of heat and cold. “The ice has anti-inflammatory effect. Should be done for 20 minutes maximum and minimum of one hour until the next application, “explains Jason Gilbert. The hot compress, in turn, helps to relax the muscles. Only then comes the phase of stretch and strengthen the neck muscles. “Now, if the nuisance does not stop, it is best to seek a specialist to expand the investigation,” advises the neurosurgeon at the Hospital on July 9.
Away chances of more serious diseases, chiropractic – a method that uses maneuvers and manipulations in the vertebrae and joints – can also be a resource to end the torticollis.
“Without the use of drugs or invasive techniques, the practice quickly returns to normal function of column while providing analgesic effect, “attests Jason Gilbert.
Prevention
To provide mobility and prevent further problems in the cervical region, invest in some simple steps on a daily basis:
Especially if you work and sitting at the computer every 45 minutes move the head in the direction of rotation and make the neck flexion and extension
The computer screen should be at eye level to avoid bad posture and tension neck in neck • Apply an ice pack when the neck is sore and inflamed
Try to identify the cause of torticollis on how to avoid a repeat of the episode
Avoid sleeping on your stomach or on the couch, using the kickstand to put your head
Do not use the phone between shoulder and ear. If you have to make a call longer and need your hands for typing or writing, for example, use a headset