Understanding Sternocleidomastoid Muscle Strain
If you’ve been dealing with neck pain, you’re not alone. Many students, especially those preparing for exams, spend countless hours hunched over books, leading to neck and shoulder stiffness. One of the most common issues that arise from this lifestyle is the straining of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. As someone who has personally experienced this during my own study years, I can empathize with the discomfort it causes. Fortunately, I found effective methods to alleviate this pain, which I will share in this article.
The Role and Strain of the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle
The sternocleidomastoid muscle is located on both sides of the neck and plays a crucial role in supporting and rotating the head. When tension builds up in this muscle, it can severely limit neck movement and cause significant pain. During my exam preparation, I experienced this firsthand. Initially, it felt like mild stiffness, but over time, it escalated to the point where even turning my head was painful, often leading to headaches.
Seeking Professional Medical Advice
As the discomfort became unbearable, I decided to seek professional help. I visited the Seoul Asan Medical Center, located at 43-gil 88, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (contact number: 02-3010-3114). The doctors there provided a thorough diagnosis and recommended a combined approach of physical therapy and medication to address the issue.
Physical Therapy and Medication Regimen
The prescribed physical therapy sessions were held three times a week, each lasting about 30 minutes. The treatments included ultrasound therapy and electrical stimulation to help relax the muscle tension. In addition to physical therapy, the doctor prescribed a muscle relaxant called ‘Eperisone.’ This medication works by reducing muscle spasms and increasing blood flow, thereby alleviating pain. However, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any medication regime.
Importance of Lifestyle Adjustments
Along with medical treatments, modifying lifestyle habits was essential. Maintaining proper posture while sitting and incorporating regular stretching every hour significantly helped relieve neck and shoulder tension. A particularly effective stretching technique involved gently tilting the head to the opposite side and applying slight pressure with the hand, which relaxed the sternocleidomastoid muscle and improved circulation.
Preventing Recurrence Through Consistent Management
To prevent the recurrence of sternocleidomastoid strain, ongoing management is vital. Regular stretching and taking breaks to move around every hour are beneficial practices. Additionally, adjusting pillow height to reduce neck strain during sleep is important. I personally use a ‘TEMPUR’ memory foam pillow to maintain comfort for my neck and shoulders, which is readily available from major online retailers.
The Critical Role of Consulting Healthcare Professionals
While the methods described here are based on personal experience, their effectiveness can vary from person to person. Therefore, it is imperative to seek advice from healthcare professionals for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. Your health is invaluable, so do not ignore any signs of discomfort, and consult a specialist for guidance.
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This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive guide on managing and relieving sternocleidomastoid muscle strain, especially for students and individuals spending extended periods at desks. By combining factual medical advice and personal insights, this article offers a well-rounded perspective on preventing and treating this common issue.