It hurts to turn my head driving – is something I hear every week from a client. It is a very common complaint and not a good (safe) thing to hear. It is kind of important to be able to turn your head driving, NO?
Why is this a common issue? Because neck pain exists in about 15% of the population at any given time. True, not all neck pain is the same, but often there can be overlap of symptoms and/or complaints – such as turning the head.
What is going on that it hurts to turn? Well, the answer could be several different factors but most often involves the muscles or joints of the neck.
When a neck “hurts” (to move), often people limit their neck movements. They think if they don’t move their neck, it won’t hurt and will get better. In truth that is the exact opposite of what is needed. By limiting movement, this further stiffens the neck, leading to more loss of motion and pain. What is necessary is to move the neck as much as possible. This will loosen up those stiff muscles or joints that are causing pain when turning the head.
How do I move my neck when it hurts?
Start by turning it side to side in a range that doesn’t hurt. Then little by little try to turn further. Often motion will increase after just a few repetitions and the pain may very well lessen at the same time.
I’ve tried turning my head but it still hurts. Well, if working on this movement for a few days is not helpful, then maybe you could try some of the helpful tips in this BOOK. If you are still struggling after a week or two or three, then it is probably time to get some professional guidance. (And not the kind that is just going to throw pills at the problem or suggest imaging. We know neither of those really do anything to solve the problem or guide treatment). The worst thing to do is to let neck pain hang around for weeks on end without getting it addressed.
Do not spend another day or night struggling to turn your head to drive or with daily activity in general. Get help from the muscle and joint experts (i.e. Physical Therapists). Get back to pain-free movement fast. Don’t know where to start? Lets start with a simple phone call to learn more and begin to set a plan in place to get you back in the game…without the neck pain.