Emergency and Urgent Care - Neck Pain

General Advice

After a road  traffic accident, neck pain can often develop

• This is due to the muscles and/or ligaments in the neck being overstretched
• These injuries can be very painful
• You may not experience pain straight away after the accident
• It may develop after a few hours and usually gets worse over the next 24-48 hours before it stars to improve
• It may cause headaches

Neck pain can be reduced by simple neck exercises and retaining a good posture.

Posture

• Poor posture can cause an excessive strain on soft tissues and muscles. It is important that you move your neck regularly and do not slouch
• Your ear should be in line with your shoulders, not in front of them

Sitting

• Support the lower back with a rolled up towel and sit upright in a chair
• Keep your head level
• Ensure working environment e.g. desk and chair, do not encourage you to bend or stretch

Lying

• Try to use only one pillow
• Mould the pillow to support the neck or try a rolled up towel to support the gap
• If you lie on your side, try to keep your head level with your body by using the pillow
• Avoid lying on your stomach
• Do not lie in the bath for long period, as this also adds an excessive stretch

Useful tips

• Gently move the head in each direction – start with looking up and down then turn head left and right do not circle your head
• Use heat or ice for about 10 mins up to 4 times a day
• For heat use a warm hot water bottle wrapped in a towel
• For ice use frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel, DO NOT apply ice directly to you skin
• Avoid quick movements, especially when turning
• If the pain gets worse, please go and see your GP
• If you develop numbness or weakness in your arms, then return to the Emergency Department