Neck strain in children: Overview
Your child has strained the muscles and ligaments in their neck. A sudden, awkward movement can strain the neck. This often occurs with falls or car accidents or during certain sports. Everyday activities like using a computer or sleeping can also cause neck strain if they force the neck to be in an awkward position for a long time.
It is common for neck pain to get worse for a day or two after an injury, but it should start to feel better after that. Your child may have more pain and stiffness for several days before it gets better. This is expected. It may take a few weeks or longer for it to heal completely. Good home treatment can help your child get better faster and avoid future neck problems.
How can you care for yourself when you have neck strain?
- Try heat or ice, whichever feels better. Apply it for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Put a thin cloth between the heat or ice and your skin. You might also try switching between heat and ice.
- Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
- Gently rub the area to relieve pain and help with blood flow. Do not massage the area if it hurts to do so.
- Do not do anything that makes the pain worse. Take it easy for a couple of days. You can do your usual activities if they do not hurt your neck or put it at risk for more stress or injury.
- Try sleeping on a special neck pillow. Place it under your neck, not under your head. Placing a tightly rolled-up towel under your neck while you sleep will also work. If you use a neck pillow or rolled towel, do not use your regular pillow at the same time.
- To prevent future neck pain, do exercises to stretch and strengthen your neck and back. Learn how to use good posture, safe lifting techniques, and proper body mechanics.
Neck strain in children: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- Your child is unable to move an arm or a leg at all.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child has new or worse symptoms in his or her arms, legs, chest, belly, or buttocks. Symptoms may include:
- Numbness or tingling.
- Weakness.
- Pain.
- Your child loses bladder or bowel control.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your child is not getting better as expected.
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