What to do in case your little one has a stiff neck – CHOC

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

Understanding stiff neck in kids 

A stiff neck with out different signs is commonly 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 circumstances, a bit relaxation, mild motion and residential care can assist it really feel higher very quickly. Neck rest and stretching workouts will also be useful.

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

How is a stiff neck handled? 

If your little one has a stiff or sore neck with out an damage, fever, or different signs, you’ll be able to often deal with the issue at house.

• Place a heat, moist fabric in your little one’s neck for about 20 minutes each few hours to assist ease the discomfort. 

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

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

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

Call the physician instantly in case your little one has a stiff neck and: 

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

• Has a fever or current fever

• Seems very drained or drowsy 

• Is very cranky or troublesome to console

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

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

Can you forestall stiff necks?

To keep away from neck ache from sore muscle groups: 

• Encourage children to not look down at their telephones or digital gadgets too lengthy. If your little one requires a pc for schoolwork, make sure that to maintain the display screen at eye stage for a extra ergonomic place. It’s necessary to take breaks.
• Make positive your little one’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 result in poor sleep posture. 
• Ensure you might be utilizing an acceptable mattress for age.

To keep away from extra critical causes of neck ache: 

• Keep your little one updated 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 might be 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 open air. 

• Dress kids in lengthy pants and lengthy sleeves in high-risk out of doors areas. 

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