Suggest Treatment For Muscle Spasms In The Neck

Posted on Thu, 20 Oct 2016

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

Thu, 20 Oct 2016 Answered on

Wed, 9 Nov 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : My 7yrs/21kgs old daughter is having problem while turning her neck around while playing as we are doing hot packs for her to get comfort, is it the correct method for relief of not? Also let me know the correct line of treatment as while playing she got neck muscle restrain.

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Muscle spasm. Hot fomentation is definitely helpful.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mr. XXXXXXX

Thanks for the query.

Since when is she having this problem?

Does she have cough, difficulty swallowing, abnormal tilting of the neck to one side?

This could be possible infection or inflammation of the structures of the neck, most commonly lymph nodes, or tight muscles.

Since she has developed this after playing, it could be muscle spasm due to sudden neck movements.

Hot fomentation us a good way to relieve muscle spasms that can help.

It is best to get her examined by a Paediatrician to rule out infection in the throat, spine and taught muscles which can be associated sometimes. Also Xray of the cervical spine will be helpful. She can wear a soft cervical collar to get relief.

Kindly do answer the queries above to help me get a better picture of your daughter's problem to discuss her further management.

I hope I have answered your query.

I will be available to answer your follow up queries.

Regards,

Dr. Aashish Raghu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Aashish Raghu (14 minutes later)

There is no cough or pain while swallowing as it is due to sudden movement in neck while playing, please advice if any syrup/tablet/ointment can be given to get relief.

There is pain while moving and lying on bed. Neck is little bit titled towards left side.

Please let me know correct line of treatment urgently.

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Hot fomentation. Soft cervical collar

Detailed Answer:
You can continue hot fomentation and also she can wear a soft cervical collar.

This should help to give relief if it is only muscular spasm. It could take 5-7 days.

If not relieving or getting worse, then do consult with an Orthopaedician and get required investigations like Xray for finding the real problem.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D