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

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

Understanding stiff neck in youngsters 

A stiff neck with out different signs is commonly attributable to minor muscle pressure—like from sleeping in an odd place or trying down at a telephone or pill for too lengthy. Generally, a bit relaxation, light motion and residential care may help it really feel higher very quickly. Neck rest and stretching workout routines may also be useful.

Nonetheless, if the stiff neck comes after a fall or harm—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 overlaying of the mind and spinal twine that may typically current with fever, neck stiffness, and headache.

How is a stiff neck handled? 

In case your baby has a stiff or sore neck with out an harm, fever, or different signs, you may normally deal with the issue at dwelling.

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

• Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for ache as directed (simply bear in mind, ibuprofen isn’t secure for infants below 6 months). 

• Name the physician if the signs don’t enhance over a couple of days, persist or worsen.

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

Name the physician immediately in case your baby has a stiff neck and: 

• Had a latest harm or concern that they have been bitten by a tick (Word: This could be very uncommon in Orange County)

• Has a fever or latest fever

• Appears very drained or drowsy 

• May be very cranky or tough 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 

Are you able to stop stiff necks?

To keep away from neck ache from sore muscle mass: 

• Encourage youngsters to not look down at their telephones or digital units too lengthy. In case your baby requires a pc for schoolwork, be sure to maintain the display screen at eye stage for a extra ergonomic place. It’s necessary to take breaks.
• Ensure that your baby’s sleeping space is snug. Test that their pillow isn’t too tall or too flat. A lumpy pillow or toys within the mattress can result in poor sleep posture. 
• Guarantee you’re utilizing an acceptable mattress for age.

To keep away from extra critical causes of neck ache: 

• Preserve your baby updated on all really useful vaccines, particularly the meningococcal vaccine, which protects in opposition to bacterial meningitis. 

• Assist youngsters keep away from bites from ticks that will carry meningitis: 
  • Lookup if areas you’re visiting are excessive danger for ticks

• Use insect repellent (with not more than 10% to 30% focus of DEET). 

• Test youngsters and pets for ticks after they’ve been open air. 

• Costume youngsters in lengthy pants and lengthy sleeves in high-risk outside areas. 

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