Is neck pain a common symptom of COVID-19. How does the virus cause muscle soreness and stiffness. Can neck pain persist as a long COVID symptom. What are the potential complications of COVID-19 related neck pain.

The Link Between COVID-19 and Neck Pain

Muscle pain, including neck pain, is a prevalent symptom of COVID-19. Recent studies have shown that a significant percentage of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 experience muscle soreness and joint pain. A 2020 literature review revealed that 11-62.5% of COVID-19 patients reported muscle pain, while 10-15% experienced joint pain. For many, this discomfort tends to concentrate in the neck, shoulders, and back regions.

A 2022 study comparing symptoms between Delta and Omicron variants found similar rates of joint and muscle pain. Over 40% of patients reported joint pain, and approximately 30% experienced muscle aches. These findings highlight the consistency of musculoskeletal symptoms across different COVID-19 variants.

Mechanisms Behind COVID-19-Related Neck Pain

Two primary mechanisms contribute to COVID-19-related muscle pain, including neck discomfort:

1. Direct viral binding: SARS-CoV-2 can bind to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors in muscles, directly affecting muscle tissue and causing soreness and pain.
2. Inflammation: The body’s immune response to the virus triggers inflammation, which can lead to widespread muscle pain, including in the neck area.

Additionally, prolonged bed rest during illness can indirectly cause muscle stiffness and soreness, contributing to neck pain.

Rare Complications: When Neck Pain Signals Something More Serious

While neck pain is typically a benign symptom of COVID-19, in rare cases, it may indicate more severe complications:

• Thyroid dysfunction: A 2020 case report documented a COVID-19 patient developing subacute thyroiditis and hyperthyroidism, presenting as pain in the front of the neck.
• Viral meningitis: In some instances, SARS-CoV-2 can spread to the meninges of the brain, causing meningitis. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of meningitis that warrant emergency care include:

• High fever
• Extreme neck stiffness
• Light sensitivity
• Confusion
• Changes in personality or mood

Long COVID and Persistent Neck Pain

For some individuals, neck pain and other muscle aches can persist long after the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection has cleared. This phenomenon, known as long COVID, is still not fully understood by scientists. However, emerging research suggests that autoimmunity and chronic inflammation may play crucial roles in its development.

A 2022 preprint study investigating long COVID symptoms found a correlation between experiencing headaches, sore throat, and hair loss during the initial infection and later developing long COVID. The study also revealed higher rates of muscle and body aches during infection among those who went on to develop long COVID.

Long COVID Symptom Statistics

• 70% of individuals with long COVID reported muscle and body aches during their initial infection, compared to 56% of all COVID-19 patients.
• 32% of long COVID sufferers reported ongoing aches and pains after the infection.
• 12% of long COVID patients experienced persistent muscle aches as a new symptom that wasn’t present during their initial infection.

Managing COVID-19-Related Neck Pain

For most individuals, COVID-19-related neck pain can be managed at home with simple remedies:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
• Gentle stretching exercises
• Application of heat or cold packs
• Maintaining good posture
• Getting adequate rest

However, if neck pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly.

Differentiating COVID-19 Neck Pain from Other Causes

Neck pain can have various causes unrelated to COVID-19, such as poor posture, injuries, or underlying medical conditions. To distinguish COVID-19-related neck pain from other causes, consider the following factors:

• Presence of other COVID-19 symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, fatigue)
• Recent exposure to someone with confirmed COVID-19
• Sudden onset of neck pain coinciding with other viral symptoms
• Widespread muscle aches rather than localized neck pain

If uncertain about the cause of neck pain, consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and guidance.

Prevention and Vaccination: Reducing the Risk of COVID-19-Related Neck Pain

While it’s not possible to completely eliminate the risk of developing neck pain from COVID-19, there are steps individuals can take to reduce their chances of infection and potentially minimize symptoms:

• Get vaccinated and stay up-to-date with booster shots
• Practice good hygiene, including frequent hand washing
• Wear masks in high-risk settings or when recommended by local health authorities
• Maintain physical distancing when appropriate
• Stay informed about local COVID-19 transmission rates and follow public health guidelines

Vaccination, in particular, has shown to reduce the severity of COVID-19 symptoms, including muscle pain, in many cases.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Managing COVID-19-Related Neck Pain

For individuals experiencing persistent neck pain following COVID-19 infection, physical therapy can be an effective treatment option. Physical therapists can provide targeted exercises and techniques to address muscle weakness, stiffness, and pain associated with COVID-19 recovery.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for COVID-19 Neck Pain

• Improved range of motion
• Strengthening of neck and shoulder muscles
• Pain reduction through manual therapy techniques
• Education on proper posture and ergonomics
• Customized home exercise programs

Consult with a healthcare provider to determine if physical therapy is appropriate for managing COVID-19-related neck pain.

The Psychological Impact of Persistent Neck Pain in COVID-19 Recovery

Chronic neck pain, especially as a symptom of long COVID, can have significant psychological effects on individuals. The ongoing discomfort and potential limitations in daily activities can lead to:

• Anxiety and depression
• Frustration and irritability
• Sleep disturbances
• Decreased quality of life
• Social isolation

Addressing the psychological aspects of persistent neck pain is crucial for comprehensive COVID-19 recovery. Mental health support, such as counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy, may be beneficial for those struggling with the emotional toll of ongoing symptoms.

Emerging Research on COVID-19 and Musculoskeletal Pain

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, researchers are actively investigating the long-term effects of the virus on the musculoskeletal system, including neck pain. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• The role of inflammatory markers in persistent muscle pain
• Genetic factors that may predispose individuals to long COVID and chronic pain
• Potential treatments targeting the underlying mechanisms of COVID-19-related muscle pain
• Long-term outcomes for individuals with persistent musculoskeletal symptoms

Staying informed about the latest research developments can help individuals and healthcare providers better understand and manage COVID-19-related neck pain.

Integrative Approaches to Managing COVID-19-Related Neck Pain

In addition to conventional medical treatments, some individuals may find relief from COVID-19-related neck pain through integrative or complementary approaches. While more research is needed to establish their efficacy specifically for COVID-19 symptoms, some potentially beneficial therapies include:

• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Yoga and gentle stretching
• Mindfulness meditation
• Tai chi

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, especially when dealing with COVID-19-related symptoms.

The Importance of Patient Education and Self-Management

Empowering patients with knowledge about COVID-19-related neck pain and effective self-management strategies is crucial for optimal recovery. Healthcare providers should focus on educating patients about:

• The typical course of COVID-19-related neck pain
• Red flags that warrant immediate medical attention
• Proper ergonomics and posture to minimize strain on the neck
• Effective home remedies and exercises
• The importance of maintaining overall health through nutrition and sleep

By empowering patients with this knowledge, they can take an active role in their recovery and better manage their symptoms.

Future Directions in COVID-19 and Neck Pain Research

As our understanding of COVID-19 and its long-term effects continues to evolve, several areas of research hold promise for improving the management of neck pain and other musculoskeletal symptoms:

• Development of targeted therapies for long COVID-related muscle pain
• Identification of biomarkers to predict the risk of developing persistent symptoms
• Investigation of the potential long-term impact of COVID-19 on the musculoskeletal system
• Exploration of rehabilitation protocols specifically designed for COVID-19 recovery
• Study of the effectiveness of various pain management strategies in the context of COVID-19

Ongoing research in these areas will likely lead to improved treatment options and outcomes for individuals experiencing COVID-19-related neck pain.

The Role of Telemedicine in Managing COVID-19-Related Neck Pain

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, which can play a significant role in managing neck pain and other COVID-19 symptoms. Telemedicine offers several advantages in this context:

• Reduced risk of virus transmission by eliminating in-person visits
• Increased accessibility to healthcare providers, especially for those with mobility issues or in remote areas
• Convenience and flexibility in scheduling appointments
• Ability to provide ongoing monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans
• Opportunity for multidisciplinary care coordination

While some aspects of physical examination may be limited in telemedicine, many providers have adapted their practices to effectively assess and manage neck pain through virtual consultations.

Occupational Considerations for COVID-19-Related Neck Pain

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered work environments for many individuals, with a surge in remote work and changes to workplace ergonomics. These shifts can impact the development and management of neck pain:

• Increased screen time and poor home office setups may contribute to neck strain
• Essential workers in healthcare and other sectors may experience increased physical stress
• Changes in work routines and physical activity levels can affect overall musculoskeletal health

Employers and occupational health professionals should consider implementing strategies to support employees experiencing COVID-19-related neck pain, such as:

• Providing ergonomic assessments and equipment for remote workers
• Offering flexible work arrangements to accommodate symptom management
• Implementing workplace wellness programs that include neck-specific exercises and stretches
• Educating employees about proper posture and ergonomics

By addressing occupational factors, the impact of COVID-19-related neck pain on work productivity and quality of life can be minimized.

Is neck pain a sign of COVID-19? What to know

Some people with COVID-19 experience neck pain, soreness, and stiffness. In some cases, neck pain can be a persistent symptom of long COVID.

All data and statistics are based on publicly available data at the time of publication. Some information may be out of date. Visit our coronavirus hub for the most recent information on COVID-19.

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Muscle pain is one of the most common symptoms of COVID-19. It is usually mild and will go away in a few days, but rarely, it may signal a serious complication, such asmeningitis.

COVID-19 symptoms vary from person to person and will depend on whether someone has received vaccinations, which strain of COVID-19 they have, and whether they have any other health conditions.

For instance, a person who already has muscle or neck pain may find that it worsens when they develop COVID-19.

Usually, people can manage COVID-19-related neck pain at home. If they have severe symptoms or if their pain does not resolve, they should seek medical care.

Read more to learn about the link between neck pain and COVID-19, how to manage it, and more.

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Muscle pain is one of the most common symptoms of COVID-19. According to a 2020 literature review, 11–62.5% of people with COVID-19 had muscle pain and soreness. Additionally, 10–15% of people experienced joint pain.

For many individuals, muscle pain concentrates in the neck, shoulders, and back.

More recently, a 2022 study compared COVID-19 symptoms when both Delta and Omicron were the dominant variants, respectively. The researchers found similar rates of joint and muscle pain for both variants. More than 40% of people reported joint pain, and about 30% reported muscle aches.

There are two main causes of COVID-19-related muscle pain, including neck pain.

The virus may bind to angiotensin converting enzyme 2 receptors in the muscles. This directly affects each muscle and can cause soreness and pain.

Additionally, experts think inflammation in the muscles can cause pain. When a person has a fever, the body’s immune system triggers a cascade of reactions that promote inflammation. Although this can help fight an infection, it can also lead to widespread muscle pain.

COVID-19 may also indirectly cause muscle pain. If a person stays in bed for days when they are ill, their muscles may feel stiff and sore.

Less often, people develop neck pain for other reasons.

For example, a 2020 case report followed a person hospitalized with COVID-19 who had pain in the front of the neck, where the thyroid lies. They received a diagnosis of subacute thyroiditis and hyperthyroidism. The thyroid dysfunction was a complication of COVID-19.

Additionally, viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2 infection, can sometimes spread to the meninges of the brain. SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19.

Several case reports detail the experiences of people with viral meningitis due to COVID-19. Viral meningitis often clears on its own, but bacterial meningitis can be fatal.

If a person has symptoms of meningitis, they should seek immediate medical attention. Go to the emergency room if a person has a high fever and experiences any of the following:

• very stiff neck
• light sensitivity
• confusion
• changes in personality or mood

Some people continue to experience symptoms after their SARS-CoV-2 infection clears. Health experts refer to this as long COVID.

Scientists do not fully understand what causes long COVID or why some people develop it and others do not. However, emerging research suggests that autoimmunity, when the immune system attacks healthy tissue, might be a factor. Chronic inflammation may also play a role in long COVID.

A 2022 preprint study that is still undergoing peer review investigated the symptoms of long COVID, including muscle pain.

Drawing on a representative sample of people in the United States, the study found a correlation between experiencing headaches, sore throat, and hair loss during a SARS-CoV-2 infection and later developing long COVID.

The people also experienced higher rates of muscle and body aches during an infection, with 70% of individuals with long COVID reporting this symptom, compared with just 56% of all people with COVID-19.

Body aches were also a common long COVID symptom, with 32% of people reporting aches and pains after the infection. About 12% of people with long COVID reported having this symptom during their SARS-CoV-2 infection.

COVID-19 has a wide range of symptoms, and it commonly causes muscle aches. Some people experience stiff neck or neck pain, and in most cases, this is not an unusual symptom, and it will go away when the SARS-CoV-2 infection resolves.

However, in some individuals, a very stiff neck along with other symptoms, especially changes in thinking or perception, may suggest a person has meningitis or another serious COVID-19 complication. People experiencing these symptoms should seek emergency medical care.

Six Symptoms to Never Ignore

It’s inevitable: Children will get sick. All that time spent playing with friends on the jungle gym means they’re exposed to germs, and that’s normal. But what are the symptoms that should give parents real pause?

Dr. Amanda Chan, a pediatrician at Blue Fish Pediatrics, in association with Children’s Memorial Hermann, has advice for parents.

Rashes

When a rash develops, it’s helpful to look back on the day’s events, since it can result from a new exposure. Look for additional signs as well: Does your child notice the rash, or is it painful? Is the rash covering a large surface area of the body? Does your child have a fever or worsening cold symptoms? Is he/she suffering from diarrhea or vomiting? If the answer is yes to one or more of these questions, you need to visit a doctor. Otherwise, try applying moisturizer to the affected area. For itchiness, parents may give children Benadryl; however, certain associated symptoms—facial or lip swelling, trouble breathing, and prolonged vomiting—are serious enough to see a doctor immediately.

A Stomach Virus

If your school-age child is vomiting, you need to assess whether he or she is able to keep down enough fluid to stay hydrated and comfortable. If the answer is no, you need to visit a doctor. Prescription medication can help with nausea and vomiting, but if dehydration is a serious concern, the child may need IV fluids. If severe abdominal pain is present, a physician is needed to further investigate the cause. If your child has diarrhea, that means he/she has a virus, which should resolve on its own with rest and fluids. To speed up the process, start giving your child probiotics, such as Culturelle or Florastor, twice a day, to bulk up their stool. If the amount or color of diarrhea is concerning, don’t hesitate to see your pediatrician.

Did you know? Children in the US miss 22 million days of school each year due to colds, flu and other infections.

A Fever Over 100 Degrees

The severity of fever in children depends on their age. When newborns have a fever of 100. 4 or higher, parents must take the situation very seriously. Parents should immediately take infants to the ER to be evaluated for more serious infections including meningitis, urinary tract infections, or blood infections, which can rapidly progress and become life-threatening. If your child is older, watch for other symptoms like a sore throat, persistent runny nose, prolonged vomiting and diarrhea. Fever reducers—Tylenol or Motrin—which are dosed by how much your child weighs, can provide some relief as a first step before seeing your doctor.

A Stiff Neck

The underlying cause of a stiff neck is very important and a key indicator of its severity. If your child was fine the day before and woke up with only neck pain, it may only be a muscle spasm; but if he/she has cold-like symptoms including a fever and now can’t bend his/her neck, the condition could be more serious. One possibility is the brain infection called meningitis, which requires evaluation at the ER. Another scenario mostly occurs among children who play contact sports; their neck pain may be due to physical contact and need a doctor’s evaluation.

A Bad Headache

Headaches can have many different causes, from not eating or drinking, to not sleeping enough, to migraines, to even infections or tumors. Many questions can be answered by visiting your doctor to fully assess the problem and its cause. In school-age children, Tylenol or Motrin can be used. But if headaches persist or are frequent, a trip to the doctor is warranted.

Difficulty Breathing

Trouble breathing can be caused by multiple things: The child could have swallowed something, for example, or could be suffering from asthma. Whatever the cause, seek medical attention. Children, especially young infants, can only breathe hard and fast for so long before they tire out. When signs of distress occur, it’s important to see a physician, whether it’s your pediatrician, an urgent care doctor, or an emergency medicine doctor.

Looking for a pediatrician? We can help! Call (713) 222-KIDS(5437)

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what is myositis and how is it treated > Rubric Medicine in Samara

We found out how dangerous cervical myositis is and what will happen if you do not see a doctor on time.

What is it?

Myositis is a pathology in which inflammation occurs in the muscles. The likelihood of them getting sick increases in the autumn-winter period. In damp and cold weather, you can catch not only a cold, but also problems with the musculoskeletal system. Often the cause of the disease, which is popularly called “the neck is blown”, is light clothing, lack of a scarf or hat.

The main symptom of myositis is pain in the muscles of the neck, which appears in the morning after waking up. It is difficult for the patient to turn his head, tilt. This reaction is the result of irritation of nerve endings during the inflammatory process. In addition, a person may feel general weakness, slight chills, discomfort in the neck when chewing. Often pain in the neck radiates sharply to the shoulder blades, shoulders, ears and temples. Some rise in temperature is possible.

It happens that these symptoms appear simultaneously with ARVI, that is, a pronounced increase in body temperature, runny nose and cough are added to the general list. The risk group includes those who lead a sedentary lifestyle, do not strengthen the immune system, or often strain the muscles of the neck.

Why is it dangerous?

Some may confuse the symptoms of myositis with the effects of intense exercise or incorrect sleeping position. However, this is not such a harmless disease as it might seem at first glance.

Myositis, if left untreated, can cause a number of complications: intervertebral hernia, the transition of the inflammatory process to the pharynx and larynx, damage to the esophagus, subluxation of the intervertebral segments, chronic bronchial lesions.

“Cervical myositis can lead to serious complications,” says Oleg Fatenkov, Chief Freelance Therapist at the Ministry of Health of the Samara Region. – There is a feeling of fatigue and muscle weakness. Inflammation can move to the muscles of the throat and esophagus. In this case, there will be a swallowing disorder. All this may be accompanied by the development of muscle tissue atrophy. The result will be a decrease in exercise tolerance and the appearance of shortness of breath. A timely visit to the doctor will cure the disease. If this is not done on time, the disease will become chronic and will bother for many years.

The treatment of myositis involves an integrated approach, that is, the patient will have to go through several specialists. You may need to consult a neurologist, therapist, orthopedic traumatologist and rheumatologist.

Recommendations

In order for the disease to recede faster, experts advise you to follow a special regimen during treatment. For example, choose a comfortable pillow for sleeping – preferably orthopedic, not be in drafts and avoid sudden changes in temperature.

Complete bed rest is not required. However, it is better to provide rest to irritated neck muscles. To do this, you need to exclude all activities in which you have to use the cervical segments of the spine.

No special diet is prescribed for neck myositis. But for a speedy recovery, it is necessary to exclude alcoholic beverages, fatty and fried foods, very salty and spicy foods, as well as sweets and pastries. It would be good to enrich the diet with antioxidants and vitamins.

There is another way to speed up the recovery – therapeutic exercises. Here it is necessary to clarify that during the period of exacerbation of inflammation and pain, active physical exercises are contraindicated. In no case do not twist your head sharply in different directions – inflammation and swelling will only increase. Gymnastics begins a few days after the onset of the disease, when the symptoms subside. What exercises to do, check with a specialist.

Cover photo: pixabay.com

Tell your friends

“What is cervical migraine?”

Dr. Ivanov on the dangers for the neck of sedentary work and long tilting of the head

Dizziness, noise in the head, flies before the eyes and jumps in blood pressure, accompanied by pain in the neck and back of the head – this is what people complain about these days many people at the doctor’s appointment. Often, this is associated with clamping of the vertebral artery, which makes it difficult for the blood supply to the brain. Osteopathic doctor Alexander Ivanov spoke in more detail about the causes and methods of treating cervical migraine in his new article for BUSINESS Online.

Often patients complain of pain in the neck and neck: “Doctor, pinched the neck”
Photo: pixabay. com

WHEN THE BRAIN DOES NOT GET ENOUGH NUTRITION

Patients often complain of pain in the neck and back of the head: “Doctor, my neck is pinched.” Also, there may be complaints such as noise in the head and dizziness, flies before the eyes, pain when turning the head, jumps in blood pressure. This whole bunch of complaints can be associated with the problem of the cervical spine. In medicine, there is even such a term – “vertebral artery syndrome”, or “cervical migraine”. In the cervical spine passes the vertebral artery, which gives 10-15% of the blood to the brain. When it is clamped, the brain suffers. In most cases, this is not fatal, but causes a number of symptoms that I have listed above.

CAUSES OF VERTEBRAL ARTERY SYNDROME

Conventionally, all causes can be divided into vertebrogenic (caused by diseases of the spine itself) and non-vertebrogenic (not associated with cervical vertebrae).

The first group of causes includes osteoarthritis of the cervical spine (aka osteochondrosis), especially important are the first and second cervical vertebrae (atlas and axis), which most often give symptoms. Also included here are anomalies in the structure of the vertebrae and the consequences of neck injuries, for example, whiplash in an accident. In the same list – birth trauma, instability of the cervical spine, inflammation of the muscles – myositis. Long-term static overload of the neck muscles, such as sedentary work or prolonged tilting of the head back, can lead to vertebral artery syndrome.

Long-term static overload of the neck muscles, such as sedentary work or prolonged tilting of the head back, can lead to vertebral artery syndrome.
Photo: pixabay.com

Other causes not associated with the cervical spine may be atherosclerosis of the vertebral arteries (deposition of cholesterol plaques in the vessels), anomalies in the structure and location of the arteries themselves.

CASE STUDY

A young woman came to the appointment with complaints of headache in the back of her head, nausea, dizziness and flies before her eyes. It turned out that the day before she visited the climbing wall, where she watched her children, throwing her head back up for a long time. As a result, the vertebral artery was clamped for a long time.

SYMPTOMS OF NECK MIGRAINE MANY FACES

Patients complain of pain in the neck and neck. Pain can also radiate to the eyes, bridge of the nose, temples and crown, be pulsating in time with the heartbeat. Sometimes the headache is accompanied by nausea and even vomiting. There may be jumps in blood pressure during the day. Also, patients note dizziness, which is aggravated by turning the head, especially when tilting the head back. Deterioration of vision (flies before the eyes, dark spots) and hearing (ringing in the ears), in some cases, even a short-term loss of consciousness are alarming signs of compression of the vertebral arteries. Patients note a lump in the throat, swallowing disorders, a feeling of heat or chills, anxiety and fear.

DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

If you experience these symptoms, you should consult a neurologist or osteopath. The diagnosis is made on the basis of an examination and additional examination methods: ultrasound of the vessels of the neck and head, radiography, MRI, and so on. Treatment may include medication and manual therapy (osteopathic techniques). The prognosis is favorable in most cases.

Patients with cervical migraine should avoid sudden movements of the head, tipping it back. You also need to carefully consider the choice of a pillow for sleeping (I previously had a publication about her choice). You should do physical therapy for the cervical spine and do self-massage of the neck (you can see it here).

EXERCISE FOR VERTEBRAL ARTERY SYNDROME

1. SP: standing or sitting. Pull your chin forward and then pull it in, while the movement should be in the same horizontal plane. Do this movement 10-15 times, slowly, smoothly, without jerking.

Photo provided by Alexander Ivanov

2.