Blog Details

neck-pain

Military Neck (Cervical Kyphosis):Causes,Symptoms, And Treatments

The military neck, also known as cervical straightening or loss of cervical lordosis, is a condition characterized by a flattened or straightened curvature of the cervical spine. This anomaly can lead to agony, distress, and limited extent of motion around the neck. It occurs as a result of  several factors such as 

  • Vertebrae deteriorate syndrome

  • Genetic Disorder

  • Lesion or injury

What Is A Military Neck?

The natural curvature of the spine helps distribute the weight of the head evenly, maintaining proper alignment and reducing stress on the surrounding structures. In a military neck, the normal curve of the cervical spine is reduced or lost, resulting in a straightened or flattened appearance. 

Cause of Military Neck

The most common cause of military neck is poor posture, either when awake or when sleeping. Poor posture can result from staring at the computer, occupational conditions, or repetitive movements. Common causes of military neck suggested by pain management doctor Fort Worth are, such as:

1-  Cervical Spondylosis

The arthritis of neck bones is generally referred to as cervical spondylosis. As your bones and discs become weak with passing age. They rub against each other, produce friction, crick in neck and tear down. 

2-  Trauma

Severe wounds or lesions in the spine can dislocate the neck causing compression. This can cause vertebrae to deform. Injuries because of car accidents, strong exercises, falling from high buildings or horses become a source of trauma.

3-  Iatrogenic Kyphosis

Some medical techniques require removal of the spine portion. The most common among them is laminectomy. The focus of this surgical technique is to eliminate stress from the spine. As a result, the patient must suffer from a military neck as explained by dr ali pain management.

4-  Spine Infections

Infections including tuberculosis are rare but can lead to spine deformity.

Recognizing Symptoms of Military Neck 

Individuals with military neck consult pain management clinic and may experience a range of symptoms, including:

  • Neck pain and stiffness, which may radiate to the shoulders and upper back.

  • Limited range of motion and difficulty turning the head.

  • Head pain, especially at the endpoint of the skull.

  • Muscle convulsions and stress in the neck area and upper back.

  • Twitching or paralysis in the arms and hands, specifying probable nerve compression.

What Are The Signs?

The following are the most common signs of military neck:

  • Headaches

  • Nerd Neck

  • Coordination Problems

  • Stiffness in the Neck or Back

  • A low Range of Motion

  • Weakness in muscles

  • Deformity of the Spine

  • Crick in the Neck

  • Bowel or Bladder Control Issues

Can Military Neck Be Treated

It is important to consult Richardson pain management if you experience these symptoms to receive an appropriate diagnosis and enter a perfect treatment plan.

  • Posture Correction and Ergonomics

Improving posture is crucial for managing the military neck. Maintain proper alignment by sitting and standing tall, keeping the shoulders relaxed and the chin slightly tucked. Additionally, regulate human friendly strategies at workstations, maintaining chair height, observe position, and table placement to eliminate strain on the cervical part.

  • Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Gentle stretching exercises can help restore flexibility to the neck and strengthen the supporting muscles. Examples include neck tilts, chin retractions, side bends, and shoulder rolls. Strengthening exercises targeting the neck, upper back, and shoulder muscles can also be beneficial, promoting firmness and alleviating strain on the cervical area of spine.

  • Physical Therapy

A physiotherapist can provide customized exercises, including manual therapy procedures, and good posture strategies to address military neck. They can also employ modalities such as heat, ice, or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain and inflammation.

  • Pain Management Techniques

For temporary relief of pain and muscle tension, various pain management techniques can be employed, including heat therapy, cold packs, over-the-counter pain medications, and topical analgesics. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using any medications.

  • Ergonomic Pillows and Supports

Using ergonomic pillows and supports can help maintain proper alignment while sleeping, reducing strain on the neck and promoting restful sleep. Options include cervical pillows, foam wedges, and neck rolls.

  • Lifestyle Modifications

Making certain lifestyle modifications can contribute to managing the military neck effectively. These include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and avoiding activities that exacerbate neck pain, such as prolonged sitting or heavy lifting.

When To Go For Professional Help

If home remedies and self-care measures do not alleviate the symptoms of military neck or if the condition worsens, it is important to look for professional help. The healthcare practitioners at pain relief clinic Corsicana including chiropodist, physiotherapist, or orthodontic experts, can perform a thorough examination, identify the underlying factors, and initiate a personalized treatment strategy based on your required needs.

Summary

Military neck can specifically affect your standard of life, adding pain, distress, and limited body movements. However, by understanding the condition, recognizing its symptoms, and exploring appropriate treatment plans, you can efficiently regulate and reduce its effects. Practice prioritizing good posture, incorporating stretching and strengthening exercises, considering physical therapy, exploring pain management techniques, and making necessary lifestyle modifications.

Non-invasive treatments and physical therapy options always work and help in giving relief. However, if they fail, go for the surgical options. By consulting the right professionals to address the military neck, you can regain comfort, restore flexibility, and enjoy a healthier, pain-free neck.

Dr. Rao K. Ali M.D.

Dr. Rao Ali, a board-certified pain management physician, leads the clinic, which specializes in nonsurgical treatment. The physician has experience in the emergency room as well as training in pain management and rehabilitation. As a personal physician, he works with each patient to develop a treatment plan that will minimize or eliminate their pain. Providing expert diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions, Pain Management In Dallas, PA provides a comprehensive range of services. These services include neck pain, back pain, hip and knee pain, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, complex regional pain syndrome, headaches, migraines, and many others.