When does my neck pain become chronic? | Neck tensions

When does my neck pain become chronic?

One speaks of chronic neck pain when the tensions last for at least three months and the pain severely affects your everyday life. Chronic neck pain can be divided into specific and non-specific pain, whereby non-specific pain is usually caused by poor posture, stress, incorrect sleeping position or physical work. Specific ones are usually caused by joint wear and tear (arthrosis) or other injuries.

Especially in the case of chronic neck tension, a visit to the doctor is not avoidable, as this is often due to a spinal malposition or other problems with the spine. Often therapeutic measures, such as physiotherapy, are the right choice to release and prevent chronic tension. Regular stretching and moving of the muscles as well as muscle building are important to achieve a better posture.

A neck pillow, ergonomically shaped, can also improve symptoms. If the chronic tension is increased or triggered by psychological factors such as stress, it is important to become aware of this and to reduce it. From stress reduction through sports to distraction through leisure activities and friends, there are different ways to reduce stress.

Even in the case of chronic neck pain, heat has a pain-relieving effect, provided it is not an inflammation. Preventively, it is important to reduce stress and to take care of your own mental health. Daily stretching as well as the promotion of natural muscle building in everyday life can achieve a better posture.

For example, short breaks during office activities, during which one walks around, can be incorporated. Neck tensions can cause numerous secondary damages to the body:

• Inflammation in the shoulder area: This is caused by the permanent, unnatural relieving posture and lack of movement.
• Cervicobrachial syndrome: This syndrome describes the loss of sensitivity, paralysis and pain radiating from the neck to the arm.
• Slipped disc: Due to the tension, the muscles in the neck are no longer as strong as they should be, and stronger forces act on the spine, which must be absorbed by the vertebrae and intervertebral discs. This leads to an increased number of herniated discs.
• Migraine/Headache: Neck tensions can promote migraine or severe headaches and spread to the respiratory muscles. This can lead to breathing problems and shallow breathing.
• Tinnitus
• Visual complaints
• Dizziness / Nausea