Could individuals who are having headaches with neck pain need emergency treatment or need to get started with sustained physical therapy?
Headaches and Neck Pain
Headaches and neck pain are two very common symptoms. They often occur together and signal common health issues, including fatigue, sinus headaches, and migraines. The combination can also occur due to serious health issues such as a concussion or meningitis. Causes of headaches with neck pain range from various causes, such as not getting enough sleep, having the neck in an awkward position, or having a hangover, to life-threatening issues like fluid buildup in the brain. It is recommended that individuals see a healthcare provider as soon as possible to rule out any life-threatening issues. Discuss the symptoms of neck pain with headache, what can cause these symptoms, and discuss treatment and prevention.
Symptoms
Symptoms are similar to what they feel like when they occur alone. Headache can present as:
A feeling of fullness in the head
Head soreness
Sharp head pain
Throbbing head pain
Pounding head pain
Neck pain can present as:
Pain in the back of the neck
Pain and/or aching of the upper back and/or shoulders
Associated Symptoms
Additional symptoms are common. Symptoms associated with headaches and neck pain include:
Neck stiffness
Trouble concentrating
Exhaustion or sleepiness
Aching throughout the body
Nausea
Dizziness
Vertigo – feeling like the room is spinning.
Photophobia – discomfort when looking at bright lights.
A feeling of numbness or tingling down the arm
Generally, associated symptoms suggest a more severe cause and can help a healthcare provider make a diagnosis.
Emergency Help
New symptoms of headache or neck pain can indicate a serious condition. If you develop these symptoms together, get prompt medical attention.
Causes
There are a variety of medical conditions that can cause headaches and neck pain. Both of these conditions are caused by irritation of sensory nerve fibers. Sometimes, head or neck pain can spread to other areas because the sensory nerves of these structures are so close together. (Côté P. et al., 2019) Additionally, a medical condition like an infection can affect the other due to proximity. Causes of headaches with neck pain include:
Headaches
Sinus headaches, tension headaches, and cervicogenic headaches are usually associated with head pain, but they can also involve neck pain. (Côté P. et al., 2019)
Migraine
Migraines are commonly associated with headaches and often cause neck pain as well.
In addition, they can cause nausea and body aches.
Fatigue
Being tired commonly leads to temporary headaches and neck pain until thorough rest is achieved.
Alcohol Consumption and/or a Hangover
For many, drinking can trigger a headache.
This is a common migraine trigger, but it can also trigger headaches for those who don’t have migraines.
Muscle Strain
Prolonged or recurrent positions that strain the neck muscles, like lifting or sitting at a desk, can cause aching or pain that involves both the head and neck. (Houle M. et al., 2021)
Injuries
Trauma such as whiplash or falling can cause soreness in the head and neck.
Bruises or other injuries may be present.
Severe injuries can cause damage to the skull, brain, spine, spinal nerves, or spinal cord.
Concussion
A concussion often causes trouble concentrating, persistent headaches, and neck pain.
Usually, these symptoms improve within a few weeks after a mild concussion.
Meningitis
Inflammation or infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord causes pain or tenderness in the head, back, and neck.
Neck stiffness and fever are commonly associated symptoms.
Pinched Nerve
Arthritis is a common cause of pressure on spinal nerves.
A pinched nerve in the upper spine can cause pain in the head and neck and tingling down the arm.
Herniated Disc
Degenerative arthritis or trauma can cause a spinal disc to press on a nerve and possibly on the spinal cord.
This may cause loss of sensation or weakness of the arm.
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
This is a serious condition caused by bleeding of a blood vessel in the brain.
Irritation and inflammation can cause severe head and neck pain, possibly with seizures and loss of consciousness.
Hydrocephalus
Fluid can accumulate around the brain, causing pain-inducing pressure.
Causes include obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid flow due to brain tumors, brain infections, or congenital malformations. (Langner S. et al., 2017)
Increased Intracranial Pressure
Pressure on the brain and the brain’s blood vessels can cause pain.
Causes of pressure within the skull include hydrocephalus, head trauma, brain tumors, or swelling from a stroke.
Severe cases can cause lethargy or loss of consciousness.
Brain or Spine cancer
Cancer of the brain or within the spine can cause pain affecting the head and neck, often with other symptoms, like loss of vision.
Treatment
Talk to a healthcare provider about the following treatments. Treating headaches with neck pain includes methods that address symptoms and methods that treat the underlying cause. The medications used for headaches with neck pain often reduce both symptoms, but this depends on the cause. Treatments that can relieve both headaches and neck pain when they occur together include:
Getting proper sleep to alleviate fatigue.
Rest and rehabilitation after a concussion or another injury.
Physical therapy to keep muscles flexible and relaxed.
Fluids for meningitis treatment and antibiotics for bacterial meningitis.
Surgical procedures for a tumor or subarachnoid hemorrhage.
A surgical procedure to relieve hydrocephalus.
Headache Treatment
You can do a few things to relieve your headaches, and although they won’t directly take away your neck pain, your headache relief might also decrease your neck pain. These include:
Avoiding loud noises
Cranial massage
Applying gentle cranial pressure
Avoiding bright lights as much as possible
Using specialized migraine sunglasses
Neck Pain Treatment
Some treatments that can specifically treat neck pain include:
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Knowing whether a serious problem is causing headaches and neck pain can be difficult. The more dangerous conditions don’t necessarily cause more severe pain. This is why getting medical attention is crucial if you have these symptoms together. If you frequently have both headaches and neck pain, it can have a substantial impact on your quality of life. There are ways to manage the symptoms, including preventative measures such as physical therapy, exercises, and avoiding triggers. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and help mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Tension Headaches
References
Côté, P., Yu, H., Shearer, H. M., Randhawa, K., Wong, J. J., Mior, S., Ameis, A., Carroll, L. J., Nordin, M., Varatharajan, S., Sutton, D., Southerst, D., Jacobs, C., Stupar, M., Taylor-Vaisey, A., Gross, D. P., Brison, R. J., Paulden, M., Ammendolia, C., Cassidy, J. D., … Lacerte, M. (2019). Non-pharmacological management of persistent headaches associated with neck pain: A clinical practice guideline from the Ontario protocol for traffic injury management (OPTIMa) collaboration. European journal of pain (London, England), 23(6), 1051–1070. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.1374
Houle, M., Lessard, A., Marineau-Bélanger, É., Lardon, A., Marchand, A. A., Descarreaux, M., & Abboud, J. (2021). Factors associated with headache and neck pain among telecommuters – a five days follow-up. BMC Public Health, 21(1), 1086. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-021-11144-6
Langner, S., Fleck, S., Baldauf, J., Mensel, B., Kühn, J. P., & Kirsch, M. (2017). Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis of Hydrocephalus in Adults. Diagnostik und Differenzialdiagnostik des Hydrozephalus beim Erwachsenen. RoFo : Fortschritte auf dem Gebiete der Rontgenstrahlen und der Nuklearmedizin, 189(8), 728–739. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0043-108550
Petersen, S. M., Jull, G. A., & Learman, K. E. (2019). Self-reported sinus headaches are associated with neck pain and cervical musculoskeletal dysfunction: a preliminary observational case-control study. The Journal of manual & manipulative therapy, 27(4), 245–252. https://doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2019.1572987
Excessive alcohol consumption: what is alcoholic peripheral neuropathy?
Alcoholic Peripheral Neuropathy
Alcoholic peripheral neuropathy (ALN) is a condition that damages the nerves in the body due to chronic alcohol consumption. It can cause sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunction, which can lead to disability. This damage prevents the nerves from communicating information. Most symptoms generally start as mild but typically worsen over time as the neuropathy progresses. The most common symptoms are: (National Library of Medicine, 2023)
Numbness or tingling sensation in the extremities
Pain or a burning sensation in the extremities
Difficulty walking
Difficulty urinating
Difficulty talking or swallowing
Affected nerves include the peripheral and autonomic nerves, which help regulate internal body functions. Around 46% of chronic alcohol users will eventually develop the condition. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019)
Causes
The exact cause of alcoholic neuropathy is unclear. But it is directly related to heavy and long-term alcohol consumption. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019) It is believed overconsumption of alcohol can directly harm and hinder the nerves’ ability to communicate information. Unhealthy nutritional habits are often associated with it as well. Research shows that decreased thiamine/B vitamin plays a role, while others suggest an overall dietary deficiency may play a role. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019) However, alcoholic neuropathy can also occur without the presence of malnutrition. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019)
Neuropathy Development and Progression
Alcoholic peripheral neuropathy develops depending on many factors, including the amount of daily/nightly alcohol consumed, age and overall health, nutritional intake, and other individual factors. In most cases, the neuropathy takes several years or decades to develop, depending on the amount of alcohol consumed.
Pain or burning sensation in the arms, legs, or feet.
Symptoms that occur in the arms and legs typically affect both sides.
Cramps, aches, or weakness of the muscles.
Constipation or diarrhea.
Nausea and vomiting.
Difficulty urinating or incontinence.
Difficulty walking.
Difficulty talking or swallowing.
Heat intolerance.
Erection difficulties.
Most symptoms begin as mild and usually worsen over time as the neuropathy progresses. Alcoholic neuropathy affects individuals who consume excessive amounts of alcohol over a long time. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019)
Healthcare providers will collect data involving past medical history and all current symptoms.
Physical Exam
This exam looks at other medical conditions contributing to symptoms, like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Neurological Exam
This is a noninvasive exam to determine the location and extent of neurological damage.
Healthcare providers may ask patients several questions and have them complete a series of small movements to check neurological function.
Blood and Urine Tests
These tests can detect diabetes, liver and kidney problems, infections, vitamin deficiencies, and other conditions that can cause neuropathic conditions.
Chronic alcohol use can also affect how the body stores and uses vitamins necessary for healthy nerve function. Vitamin levels that a healthcare provider may check include: (National Library of Medicine, 2023)
Vitamin A
Biotin
Folic acid
Niacin, or vitamin B3
Pyridoxine, or vitamin B6
Pantothenic acid
Liver Disease
Individuals with chronic liver disease often have neuropathy. The severity and stage are associated with a higher incidence of neuropathy. (Pasha MB, Ather MM, Tanveer MA, et al. 2019)
Treatment
Alcoholic neuropathy is not reversible, even when quitting drinking. However, individuals with the condition can make healthy changes to minimize symptoms and receive help for chronic alcohol use. The first step is stopping alcohol consumption. (Chopra K., & Tiwari V. 2012) Talk to a healthcare provider about what options are available. Treatment can include:
In-patient or outpatient rehab
Therapy
Medication
Social support from groups like Alcoholics Anonymous
A combination of treatments will likely be utilized. Other treatment options involve symptom management and preventing further injuries and may include:
Physical therapy
Keeping the head elevated while sleeping.
Orthopedic splints to maintain limb function and positioning.
Wearing compression stockings.
Adding vitamins and supplements.
Eating extra salt for those without hypertension
Medications to reduce pain and discomfort.
Intermittent catheterization or manual expression of urine for those with difficulty urinating.
Individuals with neuropathy may have reduced sensitivity in the arms and legs. If this occurs, additional steps need to be taken to prevent other injuries, that include (National Library of Medicine, 2023)
Wear special footwear to prevent foot injuries.
Checking feet daily for wounds.
Prevent burns by ensuring that bath and shower water is not too hot.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and help mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Peripheral Neuropathy Myths and Facts
References
National Library of Medicine. (2023). Alcoholic neuropathy. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000714.htm
Julian, T., Glascow, N., Syeed, R., & Zis, P. (2019). Alcohol-related peripheral neuropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Neurology, 266(12), 2907–2919. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-018-9123-1
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2024). Peripheral neuropathy. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/peripheral-neuropathy
Pasha MB, A. M., Tanveer MA, et al. (2019). Frequency of peripheral neuropathy in chronic liver disease. Med Forum Monthly, 30(8), 23-26. https://medicalforummonthly.com/index.php/mfm/article/view/3761
Chopra, K., & Tiwari, V. (2012). Alcoholic neuropathy: possible mechanisms and future treatment possibilities. British journal of clinical pharmacology, 73(3), 348–362. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2125.2011.04111.x
For individuals with shoulder pain and problems, what are the stages of a frozen shoulder, how long do they last, and what can be done to relieve pain?
Frozen Shoulder Stages
A frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a very common cause of shoulder pain. It causes severe pain and limited mobility. The condition progresses through stages and can take up to two years to resolve completely. The stages of frozen shoulder include pre-freezing, freezing, freezing, and thawing.
Stage 1
Pre-Freezing – 1 month to 3 months
Pre-freezing describes the earliest stage of a frozen shoulder. This is when individuals first start to notice pain in their shoulder. (Soussahn, S. et al., 2024) Many in this stage will first experience the pain at night while changing sleeping positions. As the condition progresses, individuals may notice pain when they move their shoulders, especially when raising their arms or reaching behind them. Individuals may also find reduced mobility in that shoulder and may ache even when not using it. Because motion may be only slightly restricted in this stage, an early frozen shoulder can be mistaken for a rotator cuff problem. (Chan H. B. Y., Pua P. Y., & How C. H. 2017)
Root Cause
A frozen shoulder happens when there is inflammation in the tissue that surrounds the shoulder joint. Although the specific causes aren’t known, immobilization after an injury and other shoulder conditions, like bursitis, may play a role. (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2025)
Stage 2
Freezing – 10 weeks to 8 months
The freezing stage is the most painful. The shoulder capsule becomes inflamed and can thicken and stiffen. As this happens, shoulder movements become increasingly difficult and painful. (Soussahn, S. et al., 2024)
Stage 3
Frozen – 4 months to 12 months
The third stage of a frozen shoulder is known as the frozen phase, where the shoulder is stiff. The examination finding confirming the frozen shoulder diagnosis is that neither the individual nor another person can move the shoulder. (UpToDate, 2024) With a rotator cuff issue, a patient cannot move their arm normally, but the healthcare provider can. This distinguishes between a frozen shoulder and a rotator cuff injury. The frozen stage is typically much less painful than freezing, but pain can result from simple activities. (Soussahn, S. et al., 2024) Rotation of the shoulder joint is limited, making activities like washing hair or reaching painful or difficult.
Stage 4
Thawing – 5 months to 2 years
In this phase, the shoulder joint capsule becomes thickened and stiff but gradually loosens with time. (Soussahn, S. et al., 2024) Stretching the shoulder capsule, even allowing for some discomfort, is important to ensure the shoulder joint’s mobility continues to recover. Not having the extreme pain associated with freezing the joint and seeing gradual gains in mobility make this stage tolerable.
Treatment
Frozen shoulder treatment starts with physical therapy and joint stretching. Anti-inflammatory medications, ice and heat application, and alternative therapies can all help manage the discomfort. A healthcare provider may also recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and expedite improved mobility. Redler L. H. & Dennis E. R. 2019)
Surgery is seldom needed but is an option for treating a frozen shoulder. It is usually only considered if prolonged efforts at therapy have failed to improve symptoms. One of the problems is that surgery could worsen shoulder problems. (Le H. V., Lee S. J., Nazarian A., & Rodriguez E. K. 2017)
Prognosis
The timeline for recovery can be long, measured in months and possibly years. (Le H. V., Lee S. J., Nazarian A., & Rodriguez E. K. 2017) Expecting a quick recovery can cause more frustration. However, individuals can take steps to speed their recovery and reduce discomfort. Physical therapy can be beneficial, and a healthcare provider can suggest treatments to help alleviate pain while recovering. Over time, almost all patients will find complete relief and a normal or near-normal range of motion in their shoulder joints.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and help mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Motion Key To Healing
References
Soussahn, S., Hu, D., Durieux, J., Kosmas, C., & Faraji, N. (2024). Adhesive capsulitis: Utility of magnetic resonance imaging as a primary diagnostic tool and clinical management support. Current problems in diagnostic radiology, 53(4), 464–469. https://doi.org/10.1067/j.cpradiol.2024.03.005
Chan, H. B. Y., Pua, P. Y., & How, C. H. (2017). Physical therapy in the management of frozen shoulder. Singapore Medical Journal, 58(12), 685–689. https://doi.org/10.11622/smedj.2017107
UpToDate. (2024). Patient education: Frozen shoulder (beyond the basics). https://www.uptodate.com/contents/frozen-shoulder-beyond-the-basics
Redler, L. H., & Dennis, E. R. (2019). Treatment of Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder. The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 27(12), e544–e554. https://doi.org/10.5435/JAAOS-D-17-00606
Le, H. V., Lee, S. J., Nazarian, A., & Rodriguez, E. K. (2017). Adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder: review of pathophysiology and current clinical treatments. Shoulder & elbow, 9(2), 75–84. https://doi.org/10.1177/1758573216676786
For individuals who have to be in one position for long periods, have poor postural alignment, and perform repetitive motions, what are myofascial pain syndrome spasm cycles?
Myofascial Pain Syndrome Spasm Cycles
Myofascial pain syndrome is a common condition that causes pain symptoms in a particular body area (Jafri M. S. 2014). A myofascial pain syndrome spasm cycle is a recurring pattern in which muscle tension and spasms in affected regions, caused by myofascial pain syndrome, lead to pain, triggering more muscle spasms. This creates a vicious cycle of discomfort and tightness that can be difficult to break without treatment; the pain perpetuates muscle spasms and vice versa.
Spasm Pain Cycle
Left untreated, myofascial pain is often experienced as a recurring cycle of spasm, pain, and spasm. (Kojidi M. M. et al., O2016) The exact cause of the spasm is not known. It may be related to excessive accumulation and release of acetylcholine, which causes sustained muscle contraction. (Nicol A, Crooks M, Hsu E, Ferrante M. 2018) Another theory is that repetitive small muscle trauma helps create a trigger point or knot in the muscle. (Thorne. 2021)
Active trigger points in muscles characterize myofascial pain syndrome. (Shah J. P. et al., 2015) These trigger points cause pain in the area where they are located and sometimes in other places, known as referred pain. Each muscle has a particular referral pattern of pain that goes from a trigger point in that muscle to another place in the body. (Shah J. P. et al., 2015) Medical providers and massage therapists trained in this area can identify trigger points by their pain patterns. With myofascial pain syndrome, muscles tense, and joint range of motion may decrease. (Jafri M. S. 2014)
Trigger Points
Myofascial pain syndrome is characterized by trigger points and sensitive knots within muscles that can cause referred pain when pressed, contributing to the spasm cycle.
Muscle Tension
A repeatedly tense or injured muscle can develop trigger points, which can lead tocle tightness and potential spasms.
Pain-Spasm-Pain Cycle
The pain from a trigger point can cause the muscle to further contract and spasm, leading to even more pain and perpetuating the cycle.
How Spasms and Pain Present
Myofascial pain is often caused by long periods of poor postural alignment, muscle injury, and repetitive motions. (Cleveland Clinic, 2023) For example, the upper body slumps forward when sitting at a desk workstation all day. The upper section of the trapezius muscle is located on the back of the neck and the top of the shoulder. The upper trapezius muscle works to raise the head. (Yoo W. G. 2015) The trapezius muscle now has to work more than it is used to. This overuse may cause microscopic muscle injury, leading to muscle spasms and pain. (Bron C., & Dommerholt J. D. 2012) (Nicol A, Crooks M, Hsu E, Ferrante M. 2018) Without treatment, the muscle spasms, pain, and microscopic muscle injury may persist or worsen, leading to trigger points and chronic pain. (Jafri M. S. 2014)
Causes
Repetitive Motions
Repeating the same movement, like typing on a computer, can trigger muscle tension and points.
Poor Posture
Maintaining incorrect posture for extended periods can strain muscles and contribute to trigger point development.
Muscle Injury
Past injuries can leave muscles susceptible to developing trigger points and pain cycles.
Stress
Psychological stress can lead to muscle tension and exacerbate existing trigger points.
Break the Cycle
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can use stretching, massage, and trigger point therapy to release muscle tension and address trigger points.
Exercise
Regular exercise, including gentle stretching, can help improve muscle flexibility and reduce tension.
Heat Therapy
Applying heat to affected areas can help relax muscles and alleviate pain.
Ergonomics
Modifying work habits and posture to reduce strain on muscles.
Stress Management
Techniques like deep breathing and meditation can help reduce stress-related muscle tension.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and help mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Personal Injury Rehabilitation
References
Jafri M. S. (2014). Mechanisms of Myofascial Pain. International scholarly research notices, 2014, 523924. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/523924
Kojidi, M. M., Okhovatian, F., Rahimi, A., Baghban, A. A., & Azimi, H. (2016). Comparison Between the Effects of Passive and Active Soft Tissue Therapies on Latent Trigger Points of Upper Trapezius Muscle in Women: Single-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 15(4), 235–242. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2016.08.010
Nicol A, C. M., Hsu E, Ferrante M. (2018). Myofascial Pain Syndrome. Science Direct, 207-212. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-40196-8.00025-5
THORNE. (2021). Understanding Muscle Pain, Fascia, and Myofascial Release. https://www.thorne.com/take-5-daily/article/understand-muscle-pain-fascia-and-myofascial-release?srsltid=AfmBOop3Pp0wWEeiQEqpfPgAaTOpLvU7lOAGUv5VRYQdoH8OBcW4D_wk
Shah, J. P., Thaker, N., Heimur, J., Aredo, J. V., Sikdar, S., & Gerber, L. (2015). Myofascial Trigger Points Then and Now: A Historical and Scientific Perspective. PM & R: the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation, 7(7), 746–761. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmrj.2015.01.024
Yoo W. G. (2015). Comparison of activation and change in the upper trapezius muscle during painful and non-painful computer work. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 27(10), 3283–3284. https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.27.3283
Bron, C., & Dommerholt, J. D. (2012). Etiology of myofascial trigger points. Current pain and headache reports, 16(5), 439–444. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-012-0289-4
Can mustard be a low-calorie alternative to higher-fat condiments for individuals trying to reduce calorie intake?
Mustard
Prepared mustard is a common condiment used around the country. It is a low-calorie, highly flavored condiment that can replace more calorie-dense options. The familiar condiment combines mustard seeds with vinegar, salt, lemon, and other ingredients. There are also different varieties made from brown or black mustard seeds.
Health Benefits
Mustard is considered healthy because it contains antioxidants that provide various health benefits, including anti-cancer, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. (Mazumder A., Dwivedi A., & du Plessis J. 2016) Although not associated with significant health benefits, mustard is a low-calorie alternative to many higher-fat condiments, like mayonnaise. Different types of mustard seeds are used for health purposes. For example, some herbalists use white mustard seeds to clear the throat when mixed with honey (Ewing, Sarah, 1999). Antioxidants include isothiocyanates and sinigrin.
Isothiocyanates, the oil that gives mustard its pungent taste, have anti-cancer properties for breast, lung, GI tract, and prostate cancers.
However, the mechanism remains unclear, and more research is needed to determine the efficacy of mustard’s health benefits for cancer.
Isothiocyanates may also help manage diabetes and reduce unhealthy cholesterol, providing cardiovascular protection and neurological benefits that may help autistic individuals. More research is needed. (Palliyaguru D. et al., 2018)
Sinigrin is another antioxidant. Research shows this antioxidant has anti-cancer, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. (Mazumder A., Dwivedi A., & du Plessis J. 2016)
Nutrition
A single serving is usually about a teaspoon. A serving of prepared yellow and spicy mustard provides only about three calories. (U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2019) Its nutritional profile includes a rich supply of essential minerals, including calcium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc. It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, tryptophan, phosphorus, iron, and protein. The seeds are also a very good source of selenium. Most calories come from carbohydrates, but because the calorie count is so low, these carbohydrates are not likely to significantly affect daily intake. Dijon mustard may provide more calories. A single serving of Dijon may contain up to 10 calories.
Preparation and Storage
Yellow mustard and Dijon are easy to find. Try course mustard varieties with distinct textures and seeds. Buy in small quantities, as mustard can lose flavor with time. Once opened, store in the refrigerator for up to one year. Mustard imparts a strong, spicy taste that pairs well with meat and seafood and can also be used to make salad dressings.
Side Effects
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recognizes mustard as safe (GRAS). Eating too much can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and gut inflammation. However, mustard and mustard seed allergies are not uncommon. Symptoms may be mild or severe and generally appear shortly after consuming the product. Individuals may experience a rash or a tingly, itchy feeling in the mouth. Difficulty breathing is also possible. Other foods derived from the mustard plant, including leaves, seeds, flowers, sprouted seeds, oil, and foods that contain these, are likely to cause reactions in those with mustard allergies.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic focuses on and treats injuries and chronic pain syndromes through personalized care plans that improve ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to relieve pain. Our providers use an integrated approach to create customized care plans for each patient and restore health and function to the body through nutrition and wellness, functional medicine, acupuncture, Electroacupuncture, and sports medicine protocols. If the individual needs other treatment, they will be referred to a clinic or physician best suited for them. Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, nutritionists, and health coaches to provide the most effective clinical treatments.
Enhancing Health Together
References
Mazumder, A., Dwivedi, A., & du Plessis, J. (2016). Sinigrin and Its Therapeutic Benefits. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 21(4), 416. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21040416
Ewing, Sarah. (1999). Black Mustard (Brassica nigra). https://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1421&context=ebl
Palliyaguru, D. L., Yuan, J. M., Kensler, T. W., & Fahey, J. W. (2018). Isothiocyanates: Translating the Power of Plants to People. Molecular nutrition & food research, 62(18), e1700965. https://doi.org/10.1002/mnfr.201700965
U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2019). Mustard, prepared, yellow. Retrieved from https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/food-details/326698/nutrients
Can individuals who sit for long hours daily prevent tight neck and shoulder muscles by improving their posture, regularly stretching, and massaging their trapezius muscles?
Trapezius Self Massage
The trapezius muscle is a triangle-shaped muscle in the upper back that starts at the base of the neck, spans the length of the upper shoulders, and extends into the middle back. This muscle’s main function is stabilizing and moving the scapula/shoulder blade. The trapezius also helps to move the head, neck, arms, shoulders, and torso, stabilizes the spine, and plays an important role in posture. Physical and mental stress can tighten the trapezius muscle, leading to neck and shoulder pain. Learning to perform a trapezius self-massage can ease tension and provide pain relief. (Domingo A. R. et al., 2017)
Anatomy
The trapezius consists of three parts in three different areas of the back. The bottom of the skull, across the shoulders, and down to the mid back. A trapezius self-massage focuses on the upper portion of the traps. This part is located at the top of the shoulders. To find the upper trapezius, cross one arm in front of your body so that you can place the palm on top of the other shoulder.
For a trapezius self-massage, you need to know that there are two areas where your upper traps start and where the muscle connects to a bone. The first point is on the bottom of the skull, close to the center of the back of the skull. Start there with your fingers and trace the muscle down the back of the neck to where the shoulders widen. If you get lost, You can walk your fingers up or down the muscle on either side to relocate its origin at the base of the skull, the vertebra at the base of your neck that sticks out. This is C-7, another of the upper trapezius’s origin sites. (University of Washington Department of Radiology, 2025)
Massage Technique
Massage oil is optional but can hydrate the skin during a massage. You can perform the trapezius self-massage using your hands.
Start at the Base of The Neck
Choose one shoulder to work at a time.
Raise the arm on the opposite side of your body.
Reach this arm across your body and fold it around your neck so that your fingers rest at the back base of your neck.
Apply a decent amount of pressure to the muscle while moving your fingers in a circular motion.
The action is similar to kneading dough.
Massage this area at the base of your neck for about 30 seconds to start.
If this part of your muscle is sore, you can massage it longer.
Slowly Work Out Towards The End of The Shoulder
Once you have spent about 30 seconds massaging the muscle at the base of the neck, work your way out toward the end of your shoulder.
In close increments, in your fingers across the trapezius muscle, spending at least 30 seconds at each point.
Follow the muscle until you reach the end of the shoulder.
Apply enough pressure, and use slow, rhythmic movements so that you feel relief.
If the pressure is not relieving or makes you wince, it’s too much.
Repeat as Needed
Repeat each side two to three times before switching to the other shoulder. After massaging, you may notice a certain trapezius area is particularly sore or tense. Zero in on those areas a little longer. Remember to relax throughout the trapezius self-massage. This is an opportunity to learn where tension is in your neck and shoulders and how to apply pressure to relieve it. This knowledge can also help you be mindful throughout your day, whether sitting, doing chores, or other physical activities. If you notice scrunching or slouching, massage the trapezius and remind yourself to keep your shoulders relaxed.
Benefits
Tension and tightness in the trapezius muscle are common, particularly among individuals who work in an office, do manual labor, or deal with a lot of stress. (Marker R. J. Campeau S., & Maluf K. S. 2017) Trapezius strains are a common overuse injury that is more likely to happen when the muscle is tight. (Salavati M. et al., 2017) The injury can cause unhealthy posture to avoid the pain. This poor posture will place more stress on the muscles, leading to a cycle of poor posture and chronic pain. A trapezius self-massage can benefit in many ways, including:
Improved blood circulation
Better quality of sleep
Improved posture
Improved range of motion
Decreased swelling
Faster recovery after workouts
Reduced risk of injury
Seeing a Healthcare Provider
Like any other muscle in the body, the trapezius can be injured and requires special treatment to recover. Sometimes, the neck or shoulder pain may not come from the trapezius muscle. Consider seeing a healthcare provider if you have pain in your neck or shoulder that doesn’t get better within a week or two, especially if it isn’t responding to at-home treatment. Regardless of how long you have been experiencing pain or stiffness, contact a healthcare provider if it prevents you from getting adequate sleep or interfering with daily activities. Reasons to see a healthcare provider immediately for neck or shoulder pain include: (Mount Sinai, 2025)
There is sudden pressure or pain in the left shoulder, which can sometimes signal a heart attack.
A fall or accident resulted in pain, swelling, or problems moving the neck or arm.
If there is shoulder pain, a fever, swelling, or redness.
The skin on the shoulder area appears discolored.
It’s important to take regular breaks to stretch and move your muscles. You can release tension in the trapezius by doing shoulder shrugs throughout the day and stretching regularly. When the trapezius feels tight or sore, give yourself a massage.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and help mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Whiplash Chiropractic Massage Therapy
References
Domingo, A. R., Diek, M., Goble, K. M., Maluf, K. S., Goble, D. J., & Baweja, H. S. (2017). Short-duration therapeutic massage reduces postural upper trapezius muscle activity. Neuroreport, 28(2), 108–110. https://doi.org/10.1097/WNR.0000000000000718
University of Washington Department of Radiology. (2025). Trapezius. https://rad.washington.edu/muscle-atlas/trapezius/
Marker, R. J., Campeau, S., & Maluf, K. S. (2017). Psychosocial stress alters the strength of reticulospinal input to the human upper trapezius. Journal of Neurophysiology, 117(1), 457–466. https://doi.org/10.1152/jn.00448.2016
Salavati, M., Akhbari, B., Ebrahimi Takamjani, I., Ezzati, K., & Haghighatkhah, H. (2017). Reliability of the Upper Trapezius Muscle and Fascia Thickness and Strain Ratio Measures by Ultrasonography and Sonoelastography in Participants With Myofascial Pain Syndrome. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 16(4), 316–323. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2017.06.003
Mount Sinai. (2025). Shoulder pain. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/symptoms/shoulder-pain
Can individuals experiencing difficulty with functional mobility benefit from physical therapy to help them return to normal activities?
Outcome Measurement Tests
Outcome measurement tests assess the effects of a treatment plan on a patient. They can be used to determine a patient’s baseline function, monitor their progress, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. They also give the therapy team an effective way to measure mobility, flexibility, and range of motion.
The physical therapist may use other functional outcome measurements to help assess physical therapy progress.
They may measure your strength and range of motion.
Balance and posture may be evaluated.
Effective functional outcome measurement tests must meet certain criteria to be useful in a physical therapy clinic. First, they must be reliable, meaning the results must be consistent with each patient and within groups of patients. They must also be valid to measure exactly what they are intended to measure. An effective measurement test must also be easy to administer, so it must be practical and simple. Outcome measurement tests must also be purposeful. For example, a balance test must reflect a patient’s current function and be related to their balance ability.
Common Outcome Measurement Tests Used
Common functional outcome measurement tools that a physical therapist may use include:
The timed up-and-go or TUG test is a simple assessment used to evaluate a person’s mobility and balance by measuring how long it takes them to stand up from a chair, walk a short distance, turn around, walk back, and sit down again; it’s often used to identify potential fall risks in older adults, particularly those with mobility concerns, as a longer time to complete the task may indicate increased fall risk. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017)
The Tinetti balance and gait evaluation, also known as the Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA), is a clinical test used to assess balance and gait abilities, particularly in older adults. It evaluates stability during various standing and walking tests and provides a score that indicates a person’s fall risk potential.
The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is a standardized test for adults that measures balance and the risk of falling. It’s widely used and can be performed in various settings.
The six-minute walk test (6MWT) is a medical assessment in which a person walks as far as they can in a designated area for exactly six minutes. This allows healthcare providers to evaluate their functional exercise capacity. It is particularly useful for assessing patients with lung or heart conditions where walking ability might be compromised. The distance covered during the six minutes is the key measurement used to interpret the test results. (Ferreira M. B. et al., 2022)
The functional reach test (FRT) is a clinical assessment that measures an individual’s dynamic balance by determining the maximum distance they can reach forward while standing in a fixed position. It assesses their risk of falling by evaluating how far they can extend their arm before losing stability. The FRT is often used to assess older adults or individuals with potential balance issues.
The Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire is a self-administered questionnaire used to measure the level of disability a person experiences due to low back pain. It assesses how the pain impacts their daily activities in various aspects of life, such as personal care, work, and social life; a higher score indicates greater disability.
The functional independence measure (FIM) assesses a patient’s ability to perform daily activities independently. It also measures the patient’s disability level and how much assistance is needed.
Functional outcome measurement tests provide a starting point for developing physical therapy goals. For example, if the TUG test takes 19 seconds, individuals may aim for 10 seconds. A TUG score that falls at or over 10 seconds indicates reduced physical capacity (Kear B. M., Guck T. P., & McGaha A. L. 2017). This can be the motivation needed to reach physical therapy goals.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and help mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Understanding The Effects of Personal Injury
References
American Physical Therapy Association. (N.D.). Outcome Measures in Patient Care. https://www.apta.org/your-practice/outcomes-measurement
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Timed Up & Go Assessment. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/steadi/media/pdfs/steadi-assessment-tug-508.pdf
Ferreira, M. B., Saraiva, F. A., Fonseca, T., Costa, R., Marinho, A., Oliveira, J. C., Carvalho, H. C., Rodrigues, P., & Ferreira, J. P. (2022). Clinical associations and prognostic implications of 6-minute walk test in rheumatoid arthritis. Scientific reports, 12(1), 18672. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-21547-z
Kear, B. M., Guck, T. P., & McGaha, A. L. (2017). Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test: Normative Reference Values for Ages 20 to 59 Years and Relationships With Physical and Mental Health Risk Factors. Journal of primary care & community health, 8(1), 9–13. https://doi.org/10.1177/2150131916659282
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