Neck Muscle Spasm Condition

What is Neck Muscle Spasm?

Neck muscle spasm is a common condition that occurs when muscles aggressively contract in response to nerve impulses. This typically occurs as a result of the body’s real or imagined detection of damage in the spasm area. The human body’s natural reaction to perceived harm is to inhibit any further movement in that area to prevent further damage. It does this by sending out nerve impulses that tighten muscles in the area to prevent them from moving.

Muscle spasms are different than muscle cramps – though the effect may feel similar. Cramps typically occur as a result of overexertion, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, or dehydration, and fade with rest, proper nutrients, and hydration. Spasms are the body’s protective mechanism when it senses injury or danger.

What Causes this Condition?

Muscle spasms in the neck can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include:

• Strains during exercise, or when lifting or carrying heavy objects.
• Overexertion that puts too much pressure on your shoulders.
• Poor posture. Many people who work in office settings in front of computers may experience these types of spasms.
• Trauma, as from whiplash or a fall.
• Cervical arthritis that impacts the spine.
• Spinal stenosis.
• Herniated discs.

In addition, your body may react with muscle spasms if you strain to hold your neck in one position for an extended time. Emotional stress can also provoke spasms in certain conditions.

What Are the Symptoms of Neck Muscle Spasm?

Neck spasms are usually fairly easy to recognize, though some symptoms can indicate other conditions of the cervical spine as well. In general, those symptoms include:

• Tightened muscles in the neck that feel hard to the touch.
• Increased pain in the muscles. That pain is sometimes steady and aching, and sometimes sharp and piercing.
• Muscle spasms can sometimes trigger headaches as well, due to increased tension in the shoulders and neck.
• Trigger points may develop along the neck muscles. When pressure is applied to these areas, it may trigger pain responses in other areas of the body.
• Reduced mobility. Tightened muscles may lose flexibility, reducing your range of motion.

While some muscle spasms will resolve themselves, prolonged or recurring spasms should be addressed by medical professionals. Osteopathy has been proven effective for relieving neck spasms, reducing pain, and restoring patient quality of life.

How We Can Help

Dr. Tafler can provide the osteopathic care you need to address your muscle spasms. Using safe, gentle, and non-invasive osteopathic techniques, he can help relieve tense muscles, soothe the muscle structure, and restore range of motion and mobility.