If you’re wondering if wearing a motorcycle helmet for years has any impact on the development of arthritis in your neck, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention. As you’re reading, it’s time to start exercising your neck muscles. You can start by stretching them twice a day and then focusing on strengthening them.
Symptoms
While motorcycle accidents can cause severe neck injuries, the type of injuries that occur is based on the strength and stability of the neck. The neck’s muscles and joints can be injured in an accident, and if these muscles are weak or if the neck is not stabilized properly, these injuries can cause severe pain and discomfort. One of the most common causes of severe neck pain is a herniated disc. This disc, which provides cushion between the cervical vertebrae, can rupture and leak inflammatory proteins onto nearby structures.
Wearing a helmet for an extended period of time can cause neck pain. This pain can be accompanied by numbness and tingling, and the patient may feel weakness in their arms and legs. Patients should limit movements until they are evaluated by a medical professional.
Many cyclists report discomfort in their neck after wearing a helmet. It is important to wear a properly fitting helmet, as improperly fitting eyeglasses can cause neck pain. The saddle and handlebars can also cause neck pain. To alleviate this pain, apply heat or ice to the affected area. In addition, a break from biking is helpful. Gentle stretching can also help a person’s neck muscles feel better.
Treatments
Treatments for arthritis in the neck caused by the long-term use of a motorcycle helmet should be individualized and focused on the cause of the problem. For example, if you’re suffering from a stiff neck, physical therapy is a good idea. This form of rehabilitation focuses on strengthening and stretching your neck muscles. A physiotherapist will be able to help you correct your posture and teach you how to strengthen your muscles.
The pain in the neck is often accompanied by other symptoms, including numbness or tingling in the arms and legs. It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you experience neck pain. During this time, you should limit your movements and wait for medical personnel to stabilize your neck.
Aside from adjusting your posture, you should also ensure that you are wearing a helmet that fits properly. This will protect your neck and prevent further damage. Also, you should always avoid driving until your doctor says you can. Even minor accidents may result in further injuries to the neck. Additionally, turning your head when driving can interfere with the healing process.
Prevention
Long-term wearing of a motorcycle helmet may be associated with chronic neck pain. While some riders are uncomfortable wearing a helmet, it’s essential to avoid pain in the neck and shoulders. This condition is often caused by weak muscles in the neck and shoulders. It is therefore essential to do neck and shoulder stretching exercises twice daily. Eventually, a person should move on to strengthening exercises.
Another common cause of stiff neck is a fracture. In such cases, the bone could be infected with an infection called osteomyelitis. If left untreated, the disease can progress to arthritis in the neck and cause pain. In severe cases, this condition may result in a spinal cord infection.
The cervical spine consists of seven vertebral bones. These bones are located in the neck and support the head. They are also less protected than other parts of the spine, which makes them more susceptible to injury. Aside from injuries to the neck, common causes of common neck pain include muscle strain and tension from everyday activities, wearing a motorcycle helmet, sitting for long periods of time, and sleeping in an uncomfortable position.