I've had chronic neck pain, headaches and neck muscle spasms since my surgery back in June. My gp has not been particularly helpful. They did give me a round of cyclobenzaprine (muscle relaxer) which lasted 4 weeks and did cut my need for tylenol almost in half. They told me I couldn't take cyclobenzaprine long term (hence no refill), and since it affected my cognition, I didn't take it during the day.
I know there are herbal muscle relaxers that people use for other things (notably women using them for pms cramps and labour pains). Has anyone tried anything that worked on their neck?
Any suggestions for a topical rub? I've tried tiger balm (which just caused muscle spasms, so no good), and traumeel (which doesn't have any noticeable effect).
Also tried osteopathy (similar to, but gentler than chiropractry - with no major effect), and am trying acupuncture (some effect - doesn't eliminate the problem, but seems to reduce the intensity).
I use a heating pad when the muscles seize. Ice packs do get rid of the pain, but as soon as the ice pack is removed, the pain returns full force. Tried a therapeutic pillow - no different from my regular pillow.
I do range of motion neck stretches repeatedly during the day, but would love any suggestions for exercises to strengthen my neck and shoulder muscles. I've noticed that the longer this continues, the further the pain stretches down into my shoulder muscles.
I'm wearing scarves all the time to keep the muscles in my neck warm, and try to walk daily as the movement of my arms seems to massage the neck muscles.
Any other suggestions would be appreciated!
