Causes of Pain on the Left Side of the Neck in Vacaville CA

There are many causes of pain on the left side of the neck in Vacaville CA, wherein it can range from muscle strains to a pinched nerve. Most causes aren't serious.

Having sore neck in the morning could be due to an odd sleeping position or holding your neck in a way that it stressed out the muscles and tendons on that side.

Any pain you have on the left side of your neck can go away on its own or with the help of over-the-counter pain medications and rest. But a severe pain issue should be checked by a doctor especially if it has been caused by a recent injury, or it has lasted for more than a week already.

Common causes of left-side neck pain in Vacaville CA

Inflammation - This is your body's response to infection or injury. It comes with other symptoms such as numbness, pain, swelling, stiffness, and many more. When treating short-term pain and inflammation, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the first treatment options that pops-up into a person's mind. These drugs are usually bought over the counter (OTC).

Muscle strain - If you spend hours bending your neck like when you're looking at your computer or browsing your phone, it can stress your muscles and you will end up with pain on the left side of your neck. Fortunately, muscle strain can be treated at home using rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE).

Pinched nerve - A pinched nerve happens when a nerve in the neck becomes irritated or compressed as it branches out from the spinal cord. When it happens on the left side, it could also cause pain and numbness in the left shoulder.

Whiplash - When your head is forcefully thrusted back and worth, it can result in whiplash. There are many causes of this condition, wherein car accidents are the most common.

Whiplash may sometimes lead to a painful neck injury. The common symptoms for this injury are headaches and neck stiffness but there could sometimes be more.

A mild case of whiplash can be treated with OTC medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or aspirin (Bufferin). The severe cases may require prescription painkillers and muscle relaxants to help calm muscle spasms. In addition to medication, applying ice or heat to the injured area could do you some good.

Acute torticollis - This is a condition where your neck muscles suddenly contract, causing your head to twist to one side.

It can cause pain on one side of the neck and an awkward sleeping position without much head support can trigger it. A poor posture and leaving your neck exposed too long in cold temperatures can lead to this condition.

To relieve pain from this one, you can try massage, traction, and stretching exercises. You can also apply heat since it is safe.

If your neck pain has been occurring for too long or too severe for you to handle, then you must consult with a specialist right away. Just visit our clinic at Absolute Integrative Physical Medicine in Vacaville, CA to get treated today. Make sure to call (707) 474-5688 to setup an appointment with us.