Conservative Treatment

Bed Rest: Resting in half-lying position for 2-3 days with a thin pillow fitting the curve of the neck is the first stage of the conservative treatment. Cold application in the early period (first 48 hours), and then hot applications are beneficial.

Drugs: Pain killers (aspirin, acetaminophen), anti-inflammatory drugs (Naprosyn, İndocin etc) will reduce pain by preventing inflammation. Muscle relaxants with relieve muscle spasms and reduce nerve irritation.

Collar: Collars are generally recommended for the first 2 weeks of the painful acute period for resting and for purposes of restricting the movement. Collars must be worn by all means by victims of accidents till examinations are completed. Wearing collars for periods longer than three weeks are not recommended. It can cause wasting and weakness in neck muscles. Neck exercises must be performed in the late periods. Wearing collars can be required with the recommendation of the doctor after operations of the neck.

Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is extremely beneficial for those with neck pain, and particularly in pains that have become chronic. Massage, hydrotherapy (water treatment), ultrasound, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) are other treatment modalities and must be performed by experts by all means.


It is reported that the procedures performed reduce the amount of load on the neck and relieves pain. Patients with serious cervical herniation, rheumatoid complaints, tumors or infections must avoid this treatment. It must be performed with the recommendation of a doctor and under his/her supervision. Results can worsen the situation instead of healing it.

Injection treatments: This is finding out the location that causes the pain and giving drugs in that location to prevent pain. It is also helpful in diagnosis as well as treatment.

Acupuncture and biofeedback (Bioenergy): Although these treatments can ensure improvement for short periods, their effects in the prevention of neck pain and role in healing have not been proven yet.

Strengthening exercises, Aerobics: These are very important in the treatment of and protection from neck pain. It is helpful in the correction of torticollis.