Differences Between Neck Sprain vs. Strain: A Must-Read

Introduction: 

Many people confuse neck sprains and strains. Yet, understanding the differences between them is crucial for effective treatment. Both conditions are common, but each impacts the neck differently, leading to unique recovery paths. 

In this guide, we’ll explore what sets neck sprains apart from strains, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options, and how chiropractic care can help you find relief.

What’s the Difference Between Neck Sprain and Neck Strain?

Let’s understand the terminological difference between a neck sprain and a strain:

Neck Sprain

A neck sprain affects the ligaments that connect the cervical vertebrae. Ligaments play a key role in stabilizing the neck, preventing excessive movement, and protecting the spine. 

When these ligaments are overstretched or torn, it results in a sprain.

Neck Strain

A neck strain, on the other hand, involves one or more of the 26 muscles in the neck that support the spine and enable controlled movement. Certain muscle groups are more commonly strained, and they respond differently to injury than ligaments do.

What Causes Neck Sprain and Strain?

Here’s what causes neck sprain vs. strain:

Neck Sprain

Neck sprains often occur due to sudden, intense forces that overstretch or tear the ligaments in the neck. Here are some common scenarios:

• Sudden, Forceful Movements, Like Whiplash from Car Accidents:

Whiplash is one of the most common causes of neck sprains, especially from rear-end collisions. 

When the head is thrust backward and then forward, this rapid movement stretches the ligaments beyond their normal range, resulting in small tears. 

This leads to pain, stiffness, and sometimes nerve involvement.

• Sports-Related Injuries:

Contact sports like football, rugby, or martial arts put athletes at higher risk for neck sprains. 

Any impact that jars the head or neck can strain the ligaments, especially if proper safety measures or gear are lacking. In non-contact sports, sudden falls or neck twists can also lead to sprains.

• Falls that Result in Sudden Neck Impact:

Accidental falls, whether on a slippery surface, stairs or during physical activities, can cause the head to whip unexpectedly, creating stress on the neck ligaments.

This is particularly common in older adults or anyone prone to falling, making ligament sprains more likely.

Neck Strain

Neck strains result from overstressing the muscles that support the neck and allow it to move smoothly. 

Unlike sprains, strains are often caused by sustained stress rather than an abrupt movement. 

Here’s a closer look at the common causes:

• Overuse or Repetitive Motion Injuries:

Activities that involve repetitive neck movements—like certain workout routines, labor-intensive jobs, or even extended periods of phone use—can lead to muscle fatigue and strain.

Overuse injuries are gradual and build up over time, often without an immediate “trigger” event, but they can cause chronic discomfort if left unaddressed.

• Poor Posture, Especially Over Time:

Poor posture, particularly with the neck craned forward or tilted at an angle, can gradually stress the muscles in the neck. 

This issue is increasingly common due to technology use, especially with “tech neck” or “text neck,” where individuals hunch over phones or computers for extended periods. 

Over time, this posture strains the neck muscles, leading to chronic pain and stiffness.

• Awkward Sleeping Positions:

Sleeping with the neck in a poorly supported or awkward position can strain neck muscles. This is especially true if the neck remains twisted or bent throughout the night. 

Using unsupportive pillows or lying on your stomach, for example, can force the neck into unnatural positions that put strain on muscles. This often leads to waking up with stiffness or pain localized in the strained muscles.

• Muscle Tension Due to Stress:

Stress can cause the muscles in the neck and shoulders to tighten involuntarily, leading to a buildup of muscle tension. Over time, this tension can strain the muscles, causing pain and limited range of motion.

Often, individuals under high stress may experience neck pain without any physical injury—simply as a result of chronically tense muscles.

How to Tell If You Have a Neck Sprain or Strain?

While both neck conditions can cause pain, stiffness, muscle spasms, and reduced range of motion, specific signs can help differentiate between a neck sprain vs. neck strain:

Neck Sprain

• Pain may develop gradually, with a delayed onset after an injury.
• If nerves are involved, numbness or tingling in the arms may occur.

Neck Strain

• Sharp, localized pain around the affected muscle.
• Muscle spasms and cramping that further limit neck movement.

How Are Neck Sprains and Strains Diagnosed?

Diagnosis starts with a physical examination by a healthcare provider, which may include:

• Range of motion tests
• Palpation to identify tender areas
• Neurological exams to check for nerve involvement
• Imaging studies (X-ray, MRI) if symptoms are severe or to rule out other conditions

Treatment Options for Neck Sprains & Strains

Effective treatment for both neck conditions often combines multiple approaches:

1. Rest and Ice/Heat Therapy

• Rest: 

Allowing the neck to rest is essential in the first 24-48 hours following a sprain or strain. 

Limiting neck movement during this time helps prevent further strain on the injured muscles or ligaments, giving them time to start the healing process. 

However, prolonged rest isn’t recommended, as it can lead to stiffness. After a few days, gentle movement and stretching are beneficial for recovery.

• Ice Therapy:

Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first two days helps reduce inflammation and numbs pain. 

• Heat Therapy: 

After the initial swelling has reduced, heat can help relax tight muscles, increase blood flow, and promote healing. 

This approach is ideal for muscle strains where stiffness and tightness are the main symptoms. 

Heating pads, warm towels, or warm baths are convenient options.

2. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care offers a hands-on, natural approach to healing neck sprains and strains. By focusing on realigning the cervical spine, chiropractic adjustments aim to relieve tension, restore mobility, and reduce inflammation.

• Chiropractic Adjustments: 

A chiropractor gently manipulates the neck and surrounding joints to correct misalignments. 

Adjustments can relieve pressure on spinal nerves, reduce muscle tightness, and increase range of motion.

• Soft Tissue Therapy:

Chiropractors often include soft tissue techniques, like myofascial release or trigger point therapy, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. 

These techniques target specific muscle areas to relieve knots or tightness, providing immediate relief from pain and improving flexibility.

• Personalized Treatment Plans: 

At Crist Chiropractic, every treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s unique condition, ensuring the most effective approach for their recovery.

3. Spinal Decompression Therapy

Spinal decompression is particularly effective for neck pain associated with disc issues or nerve compression. 

This therapy gently stretches the spine to create space between the vertebrae, which helps reduce pressure on the spinal discs and nerves.

• Non-Invasive Approach: 

Unlike surgical decompression, this method uses a specialized table or device to elongate the spine in a controlled manner, relieving nerve compression without any invasive procedures.

• Benefits for Sprains and Strains: 

By reducing pressure on the spinal discs, spinal decompression promotes better alignment and can ease muscle tension. 

For neck sprains, it can lessen the strain on ligaments, while for strains, it relieves tension from overworked muscles.

• Enhanced Circulation and Healing: 

Spinal decompression encourages nutrient-rich blood flow to the affected areas, supporting the body’s natural healing process.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between neck sprains and strains is essential for getting the right treatment when you need it most. While both conditions can cause significant discomfort, addressing them early with the proper care can prevent long-term issues. 

Chiropractic care, in particular, offers targeted support for both sprains and strains, helping restore mobility, reduce pain, and promote natural healing.

At Crist Chiropractic, we combine expertise, personalized care, and advanced therapies like spinal decompression and soft tissue work to provide effective, non-invasive relief. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of your recovery, ensuring you receive the precise treatment you need.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward neck pain relief, visit our website to schedule your consultation today.

FAQs

1. How long does a neck strain take to heal?

Generally, mild strains heal within a few weeks, but severe cases may take longer.

2. Is a pulled neck the same as a strained neck?

A “pulled neck” typically refers to a muscle strain, not a sprain.

3. What does neck strain feel like?

It’s often described as sharp, stabbing pain around the affected muscle, with possible muscle spasms.

4. How can I prevent neck strains?

Practicing good posture, stretching regularly, and using proper support while sleeping can help.

5. Can neck sprains be treated at home?

Minor sprains may improve with rest, but consult a chiropractor for persistent symptoms.