What could cause a sharp pain in the neck while stretching?

Question

Hello doctor,

This morning I got up, and I went to the restroom. As I looked at myself in the mirror, I started to stretch, as soon as I stretched I heard a slight crack in my neck and sharp pain, after that I could not move it. What should I do?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed your question.

I am sorry you are experiencing neck pain. Nearly 80 percent of people will experience back pain at some point in their life. If your pain is muscle-related, a hot bath may help loosen you up and give you some temporary relief. When you say that you heard a pop and now you cannot move it, it tells me that you will most likely need to see a chiropractor for relief.

I would suggest performing a chiropractic examination and would most likely recommend chiropractic adjustments. Since you are not my patient, I recommend that you go back to a local chiropractor for treatment and proper care. Once they perform an examination, your chiropractor may want to order X-rays to confirm a diagnosis, but I would suspect that he or she will recommend a trial of care to see how you respond to care.

Until then, ice may help with some of your pain. Make sure you ice for 20 minutes and then take it off for at least 40 minutes. Repeat this as a need for pain relief until you see a chiropractor.

I hope this helps.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.