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Pain
I have alot of discomfort, mild pain and tightening in the left side of my neck about an inch above my colar bone. Could you give me some possible causes of this?
The symptom of pain is generally an indication that something is not right, it is like an alarm bell or warning to bring your attention to a specific problem in the body. Musculo-skeletal pain will generally occur due to muscle tension and inflammation. Long term chronic pain may cause further debilitating conditions and contribute to other conditions such as neck, back and hip misalignment. Some causes of this complaint may be related to:
- Working at a computer or sitting for long periods of time
- Postural misalignment
- Exercise, sports injuries or repetitive strain injuries
- Arthritis or autoimmune conditions
- Throat conditions
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck area
Lifestyle factors for pain
- Consider making an appointment with a Naturopath or body care therapist (acupuncture, massage, postural alignment, craniosacral balancing) who may help to provide relief to pain and properly reduce the underlying problem
- Take regular epsom salt baths to help the nerves and muscles to let go
- Use a warming application to the area such as Tiger Balm or a wheat pack if it is a long term injury or cold packs if it is a recent injury
- Incorporate a regular stretching routine into your life so the muslces and nerves learn to release built up tension. Yoga practices are helpful to loosen tight muscles and re-balance postural problems
- Take time out for meditation and learning a breathing practice is also recommended to calm the spirit, switch the brain off and relax
- If you work on a computer at a desk remember to stretch and move often so that the muscles of the neck, arms and shoulders do not hold onto to tension. Also ensure that your posture is correct if you are sitting for long periods of time, choose an ergonomic chair also
- Manage stress and learn relaxation techniques to help keep yourself calm and free of worries
Natural remedies for pain relief
- The essential oils of marjoram, lavender, basil, peppermint, chamomile or rosemary diluted in a base oil of wheatgerm or sweet almond oil may give temporary relief to a throbbing head when massaged into the temple area.
- Homeopathics may give some relief: Arsenicum, Chammomila, Bryonia, Aconite, Nux Vomica.
- Ensure adequate water intake and consider taking an electrolyte supplement containing Magnesium, Calcium and Potassium which help to feed the nerves and muscles these help the muscles to replenish
- Take a fish oil supplement as fish oils contain potent anti-inflammatory effects to reduce the inflammation that contributes to musculo-skeletal inflammation
- Other herbs which may be of assistance to your son to relieve nervous system tension are Chamomile, Vervain, Magnolia, Sacred Basil, Hops, Rosemary, Lavender, Ginger, Skullcap, Kava, Lemon Balm, Damiana, Passionflower, Oats and Withania
It may be of assistance to you to also seek the support and advise of a Healthcare professional who can further assist you to determine the cause of the problem. For further information see the Ask a Naturopath.com webpage concerning tight muscles