Neck and L-shoulder pain

**AlphaFoxtrot51** · Posted On: 9/09/2011 8:10pm

Recently, I've been having some major neck/shoulder pain after my rolling sessions. My ability to look up is reduced and I can barely look left.

I've tried stretching before/after training, epsom salt baths, hot/cold packs, and Aleve. While the Aleve helps, I don't want to have to use naproxen every time I roll.

Has anybody else had similar issues? Is this just something that happens and passes with time?

***Cassius*** · Posted On: 9/09/2011 8:33pm

Yes. I had symptoms very similar to that, and it ended up being a couple bulging discs and multiple herniated discs in my neck, but I didn't find that out until after I fractured my C3 vertebra on deployment. Needless to say, after a little total disc replacement action, nerve root decompression, and removal of scar tissue from my spine, I am doing just dandy.

My vote is for doctor.

**AlphaFoxtrot51** · Posted On: 9/09/2011 8:36pm

Originally Posted by Cassius

Yes. I had symptoms very similar to that, and it ended up being a couple bulging discs and multiple herniated discs in my neck, but I didn't find that out until after I fractured my C3 vertebra on deployment. Needless to say, after a little total disc replacement action, nerve root decompression, and removal of scar tissue from my spine, I am doing just dandy.

My vote is for doctor.

...Yup. Doctor it is. And, ouch?

**Prince Vlad** · Posted On: 9/10/2011 9:49am

I get this a couple of times per year and have had it investigated by a GP, spine surgeon, chiropractor, physio and osteopath. In my case it's not a disk issue but muscular. Tears/injuries, imbalances, posture and lifestyle (combat sports) caused mine. Sometimes the spasms can be so bad that the spine is visibly moved out of alignment. The solution for me has been osteopathy, deep muscular massage to reduce spasm and knotting combined with some manipulations to realign things and specific exercises to eliminate the imbalances. The problem you will find is that none of the above disciplines really recognises the other so if your GP doesn't help fix the issue don't think that it's something that is untreatable - get it looked at by a qualified specialist.

***Cassius*** · Posted On: 9/10/2011 5:14pm

Alternatively, try sleeping on a firmer bed with very little to no pillow.

**DAYoung** · Posted On: 9/10/2011 5:30pm

Originally Posted by Cassius

Alternatively, try sleeping on a firmer bed with very little to no pillow.

In what position? On your back?

I only ask, as my hands go numb if I lie on my back for too long.

***Cassius*** · Posted On: 9/11/2011 4:15pm

Originally Posted by DAYoung

In what position? On your back?

I only ask, as my hands go numb if I lie on my back for too long.

Back works for me. though I tend to migrate rather quickly to my stomach once I am actually asleep. Mileage will vary, I guess.

**doofaloofa** · Posted On: 9/11/2011 4:25pm

I get neck/shoulder pain as a result of stress. Knots in the muscles
I ended up in hospital once convinced I'd broken my kneck,
I was taught a good set of stretches by a shiatzu practitioner that if I do every day brings the knots out before they build up into a cronic bout.

One of the trainers at our judo club has a similar problem and has a book dedicated to the issue. i can ask him about it if you like