How Can Severe Neck Stiffness Be Treated?

Posted on Sat, 26 Aug 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 26 Aug 2017 Answered on

Sat, 16 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had a stiff neck for 5 days and the muscle on the left back of my neck is clearly tight and it feels like I have muscle spasm in that muscle. I am massaging the area myself and applying heat several times a day.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (40 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Possible spontaneous torticolis

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
It seems like torticolis or neck stiffness caused by muscle spasm. it may occur spontaneously or if you have been exposed to wind,cold or had too much exercise. At this point you should take nonsteroid painkillers, have massage, apply heat and have warm baths. In more severe cases steroid injections are required and rheumatologist should be consulted. Wish you good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T