Do you have a crick in your neck? Maybe you woke up in the morning with your neck feeling stiff and less mobile than usual—almost as if it needs to “pop.” Most likely, you have a minor injury known as a neck sprain, which probably happened when a ligament in your neck was stretched too far and tore. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that function much like large rubber bands to stabilize bones and hold them together. Although ligaments are quite flexible, they do have limits, and if those limits are exceeded, a sprain can result.

If you suspect that you have a neck sprain, you can have your injury assessed and treated by a spine specialist at Premier Bone & Joint Centers in Gillette, Wyoming. In addition to performing a thorough physical exam and checking the range of motion in your neck, we may order X-rays to rule out other causes of neck pain, such as arthritis and fractures. After we confirm your diagnosis, we can suggest a treatment plan to ease your pain and help you recover.

How Is a Neck Sprain Treated?

Most neck sprains resolve gradually over several weeks. In the meantime, you may find it helpful to wear a cervical collar or neck brace, which can help support your head and relieve pressure on your injured ligament as it heals. Other treatment options include:

• Ice applications
• Pain relievers
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Muscle relaxants
• Therapeutic massage
• Ultrasound therapy
• Anesthetic injections

You can rely on the skilled and experienced team at Premier Bone & Joint Centers to support your well-being throughout your recovery from a neck sprain. Contact us today to set up an appointment with a neck doctor at our satellite clinic in Gillette, WY.