Stiff neck problem..
 

My son has a stiff neck that hurts like heck he says. It happened trying to open a bottle of water of all things. This has been going on for 12 hours.

He's kept ice packs on it but it still hurts.

Should we keep the ice packs on or switch to heat?

Man, I was going to make a joke about a Viagra getting caught in your throat....

Seriously, if it's not better tomorrow, he may have a strain in his neck. I've had several from weight-lifting. Muscle relaxers and rest are about all that will work.

How old is the boy? If of reasonable age: cold, sleep, anti-inflammatory. If it's more than pain (weakness or paresthesia in arms...) see someone in healthcare soon.

He's 18.

He's been taking ibuprofen. My thought is to start with some heat now.

He swims every day but that's out of the question for now.

you don't want heat on a new injury...maybe for arthritis but not for this.

I would get a doctor visit setup immediately as our internet diagnosis is worth what you are paying for it. A quick search turned up simple things to some really bad stuff like meningitis or even a hemorrhage! Since you mentioned swimming I imagine that is a pool which can be a source or anything!

We'll see what he looks like tomorrow. If no progress, then it's off to the doc.

stiff neck
 

try some rubbing alcohol on his neck and shoulders... this should help..

good luck!

Did this turn out ok?

Yes, he's doing much better. Alternated heat and ice, along with ibuprofen. He's back in the pool to keep it moving as well.

Thanks for asking.

I too was wondering about this, glad he's doing better.
Mike

that's good news!

Magnesium lotion.