Muscle Strain Neck
Muscle Strain
A muscle strain occurs when you overstretch or tear a muscle. Muscle strain may be caused by muscle fatigue, overuse, or poor body mechanics. Strains most often occur in the back, neck, arms and legs.
Symptoms
Sudden onset of pain while exercising or with movement may indicate a muscle strain. Other symptoms include:
- Reduced range of motion
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Muscle spasms
- Muscle weakness
- Stiffness
The degree of your muscle strain may determine the severity of your symptoms. With a mild muscle strain, your muscle may feel stiff, but you should be able to retain movement. With a severe muscle strain, you may have a severely limited range of motion along with the pain. You can manage a mild muscle strain at home with ice, rest, and anti-inflammatory medication. If your muscle strain is severe, you need to schedule an appointment with the Compass Pain and Spine doctor.
Diagnosis
The Compass Pain and Spine can diagnose a muscle strain during a comprehensive history and physical examination. In addition, we may also request diagnostic tests such as an MRI or ultrasound.