When Your Neck Gets Cold: Treating Neck Myositis at Home
Sometimes we don’t know what to do when our neck gets cold and how to get rid of the sharp, nagging pain. At such times, a natural health guide may come to the rescue.
Myositis is the inflammation of skeletal muscles. It can unexpectedly affect you not only in the cold season but also in summer. For example, after driving “with the wind in your hair,” sitting in a draft near a fan, or by an open window. When your neck gets cold, hoping that the pulling pain “will pass on its own” can lead to more serious complications. Therefore, below you will find methods of treating neck myositis at home. But before using them, be sure to consult a professional doctor.
What to do when your neck gets cold?
Try to avoid sudden movements, don’t engage in physical activity, and especially do not try to forcefully turn your head. Stay in a state of rest.
If needed, take an over-the-counter painkiller and apply an analgesic anti-inflammatory ointment to the painful area (such as Fastum Gel, Dolobene, Voltaren, or Ketonal cream).
After 30–40 minutes, you may use one of the warming remedies that improve blood circulation, reduce swelling, and relieve pain:
a. Vodka rub (if strength is over 55%, dilute with boiled water). Rub into the painful area and slightly down along the spine up to four times a day.
b. Warming ointments (such as Finalgon, Capsicam, Viprosal). Rub into the sore spot, but not more than three times a day. Note: some components may cause allergies.
c. Dry heat with salt. Heat kitchen salt in a frying pan, then carefully pour it into a wool sock. Apply the compress to the sore area for 40–60 minutes.
Before bedtime, wash the warming ointment off the neck with warm water. Then apply a compress: fold gauze three times, soak it in vodka (50% alcohol, cologne, or camphor oil), and secure with a bandage without disrupting blood circulation. Place cotton wool on top and wrap your neck with a wool scarf. The compress may be kept for 6–8 hours.
Wearing an orthopedic collar
When your neck gets cold, a good supportive method of treating myositis is wearing an orthopedic collar (“Shantz collar”), which holds the neck, muscles, and vertebrae in the correct position, keeping them still. Its mild massage effect promotes circulation and relieves muscle pain. By the way, if you suffer from headaches and dizziness, an orthopedic collar can also be very helpful.
