Waking up with a stiff, painful neck or the sudden onset of torticollis can derail your day before it starts. At Elite Performance Therapy, we empathise with the frustration of morning neck pain, whether it’s a nagging ache or a locked neck that restricts movement. We are dedicated to identifying the causes of conditions like torticollis and providing evidence-based strategies to restore comfort. Below, we explore why you might wake with neck pain, the role of torticollis, and practical solutions to help you rise ready for the day ahead!
What Is Torticollis?
Torticollis, or wry neck, is a condition where neck muscles, particularly the sternocleidomastoid, spasm or tighten, causing the head to tilt or turn painfully to one side. Often triggered during sleep, it results in stiffness and limited motion upon waking. While torticollis can stem from injury or congenital factors, morning occurrences are typically linked to sleep posture or environmental factors. Elite Performance Therapy specialises in addressing torticollis to alleviate discomfort and prevent recurrence.
Causes of Morning Neck Pain and Torticollis
Several factors contribute to waking with neck pain or torticollis, including:
- Poor Sleep Posture: Sleeping with your neck twisted or unsupported strains muscles.
- Inadequate Pillow: A pillow too high, low, or firm misaligns the cervical spine.
- Old Mattress: Mattresses over 7-10 years old may lack proper spinal support.
- Stress or Tension: Daytime stress tightens neck muscles, worsening overnight.
- Cold Drafts: Exposure to cold air during sleep can trigger muscle spasms.
Recognising the Symptoms
Torticollis presents as acute neck stiffness, often with the head tilted to one side and pain when attempting to move. General morning neck pain may feel like soreness or a reduced range of motion, easing with activity. Both are often sleep-related, and here at Elite Performance Therapy we can help you distinguish between these symptoms for effective management.
Elite Performance Therapy’s Strategies for Relief
To prevent morning neck pain and torticollis, here are a few of our top tips:
- Optimise Sleep Posture: Sleep on your back or side with a pillow aligning your neck and spine.
- Select a Supportive Pillow: Choose a medium-firm pillow to keep your head level with your shoulders.
- Replace Old Mattresses: Upgrade mattresses every 7-10 years for consistent support.
- Pre-Sleep Stretching: Perform gentle neck tilts for 10-15 seconds per side to relax muscles.
- Keep Warm: Use a scarf or close windows to avoid cold drafts during sleep.
Still got questions or want a chat?
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