1. Least Effective Exercises Slideshow
2. Dehydration Slideshow
3. First Aid Care and Pain Relief for Minor Injuries

Medical Author:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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Medical Editor:

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Dr. Balentine received his undergraduate degree from McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland. He attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine graduating in1983. He completed his internship at St. Joseph's Hospital in Philadelphia and his Emergency Medicine residency at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, where he served as chief resident.

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It is important to follow up with your doctor for recommendations for rehabilitation of a neck strain. This is particularly important for older people in whom the healing process is often prolonged where underlying medical conditions require monitoring.

Typically, for an uncomplicated neck strain, follow-up should be within two weeks, or at your discretion, unless symptoms warrant otherwise.

• For motor vehicle crash victims, earlier follow-up is recommended, within one week of the accident.
• Immediate follow-up should be sought for any unbearable symptoms or any unexpected progression or worsening of your condition. Go to a hospital's emergency department if necessary.
• Follow-up should also occur for medical clearance to return to work and for all people requiring prescription medication for pain relief.

Most doctors instruct people to contact them immediately for any new or worsening symptoms or symptoms that won't go away or, in fact, any concerns that you can't resolve on your own. If you do not have a regular doctor and are unable to find one, you should seek help at the hospital's emergency department for any unexpected or constant symptoms. The primary goal for people and their doctors is always early and complete recovery.

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See the Entire Neck Strain Topic Guide »