What to do if your child has a stiff neck – CHOC

Medically reviewed by Dr. Harshul Zaveri, a CHOC skilled in pediatric neurology and complications

Understanding stiff neck in youngsters 

A stiff neck with out different signs is usually brought on by minor muscle pressure—like from sleeping in an odd place or wanting down at a cellphone or pill for too lengthy. In most instances, a little relaxation, light motion and residential care can assist it really feel higher very quickly. Neck leisure and stretching workout routines can be useful.

However, if the stiff neck comes after a fall or damage—or exhibits up together with a fever and headache—it may very well be a signal of one thing extra critical. For instance, meningitis is an an infection of the overlaying of the mind and spinal wire that may usually current with fever, neck stiffness, and headache.

How is a stiff neck handled? 

If your child has a stiff or sore neck with out an damage, fever, or different signs, you possibly can normally deal with the issue at dwelling.

• Place a heat, moist material on your child’s neck for about 20 minutes each few hours to assist ease the discomfort. 

• Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for ache as directed (simply bear in mind, ibuprofen isn’t protected for infants below 6 months). 

• Call the physician if the signs don’t enhance over a few days, persist or worsen.

When ought to I name the physician for a stiff neck? 

Call the physician straight away if your child has a stiff neck and: 

• Had a latest damage or concern that they had been bitten by a tick (Note: This could be very uncommon in Orange County)

• Has a fever or latest fever

• Seems very drained or drowsy 

• Is very cranky or tough to console

• Has a pores and skin rash or has flu-like signs 

• Is an toddler and has a weak suck, excessive-pitched cry, or a bulging tender spot on the cranium 

Can you forestall stiff necks?

To keep away from neck ache from sore muscle groups: 

• Encourage children not to look down at their telephones or digital units too lengthy. If your child requires a pc for schoolwork, ensure to preserve the display at eye degree for a extra ergonomic place. It’s essential to take breaks.
• Make certain your child’s sleeping space is comfy. Check that their pillow isn’t too tall or too flat. A lumpy pillow or toys within the mattress can lead to poor sleep posture. 
• Ensure you’re utilizing an acceptable mattress for age.

To keep away from extra critical causes of neck ache: 

• Keep your child up to date on all really helpful vaccines, particularly the meningococcal vaccine, which protects in opposition to bacterial meningitis. 

• Help children keep away from bites from ticks that will carry meningitis: 
  • Look up if areas you’re visiting are excessive threat for ticks

• Use insect repellent (with not more than 10% to 30% focus of DEET). 

• Check children and pets for ticks after they’ve been outside. 

• Dress youngsters in lengthy pants and lengthy sleeves in excessive-threat outside areas. 

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