Why Neck Pain During Pregnancy Occurs and How to Alleviate It

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, filled with excitement, happiness, and physical changes. While the joy of expecting a child is immense, the physical discomforts that accompany pregnancy can sometimes overshadow this happiness. Among these discomforts, neck pain is a common issue that many pregnant women experience. Understanding the causes of neck pain during pregnancy and learning how to alleviate it can significantly improve your comfort and overall well-being during this special time. To know more about this information read the whole blog which is going to explain those in detail in an understandable manner.

Causes of Neck Pain during Pregnancy:

Hormonal Changes:

During Pregnancy, Your body undergoes major hormonal changes particularly hormonal release called progesterone and relaxing. These hormones help to loosen the ligaments and joints in the pelvis regions to prepare your body for childbirth. However, it also affects other joints including the neck. This increased flexibility can lead to discomfort and neck pain during pregnancy.

Postural Changes:

As the belly grows, pregnant women often experience back and neck pain. A major contributing factor to this discomfort is poor posture, such as hunching over a phone or while working at a desk.

Weight Gain: 

The natural weight gain during pregnancy, while essential for the baby’s development, also puts additional pressure on the spine. The increased weight can cause muscles, especially in the neck and back, to work harder to support the body, leading to fatigue and pain.

Sleep Discomfort: 

As pregnancy progresses, finding a comfortable sleeping position becomes more challenging. Many pregnant women find themselves sleeping in positions that strain the neck, such as lying on the back with inadequate support. Poor sleep posture can contribute to morning neck stiffness and pain.

Effective Ways to Alleviate Neck Pain:

Prenatal Exercises and stretches:

Engaging in regular gentle exercise can strengthen your neck muscles and reduce pain. some effective exercises include:

  • Slowly tilt your head towards your shoulders, holding for a few seconds on each side.
  • Gently pull your chin towards your chest, holding for a few seconds before releasing.
  • Roll your shoulders backward and forward to relieve tension.

Techniques for Stress Management:

Effective stress management throughout pregnancy can ease neck pain and ease tense muscles. Think about implementing relaxing methods like:

  • Prenatal yoga: Encourages relaxation while strengthening and extending the body.
  • Stress reduction and mental calmness are the main goals of meditation.
  • Practices including deep breathing can help release tension in the shoulders and neck.
  • It’s important to prioritize your mental health and take some time to relax during pregnancy.

Therapy with Heat and Cold:

Neck discomfort can be effectively relieved with hot and cold therapy. This is how to apply them:

  • Cold Compress: To ease discomfort and reduce inflammation, place a cold compress on the neck for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Hot Compress: To relieve tight muscles after the acute inflammation goes down, use a warm compress or take a warm shower.

To prevent burns or frostbite, always place a towel between the compress and your skin.

Final thought:

Although many women suffer neck pain during pregnancy, it doesn’t have to be an essential part of the experience. Pregnancy can be more comfortable and healthful if you are aware of the reasons for neck pain and take steps to reduce it. Never forget how crucial it is to put self-care first and ask for help when you need it. 

Do not be afraid to seek advice and direction from your healthcare provider in neck pain treatment in Bangalore if you are experiencing neck pain during pregnancy. Being proactive in managing and preventing pain can have a big impact on how your pregnancy goes. Neck pain treatment at Bangalore hospitals, such as Neurowellness, can help alleviate your pain.

If you’re seeking thebest neck pain treatment in Bangalore, contact Neurowellness for personalized care and attention.

Cervical Collar: Types, Uses, Duration & Doctor Guidelines (2025)

A cervical collar is used to support the neck during injury, pain, or post‑surgical recovery. While it can reduce pain and restrict harmful movement, incorrect or prolonged use can weaken neck muscles. Cervical collars should always be used under medical supervision for the right condition and duration.

Learn when to wear a cervical collar, how long it is safe to use, and what spine doctors recommend.


Recommended by Dr. Ganesh, Neurosurgeon, Neurowellness, Bangalore

A cervical collar is a commonly prescribed medical device used to support the neck after injury, surgery, or nerve-related pain. While it can help reduce discomfort and restrict harmful movement, using a cervical collar incorrectly or for too long can delay recovery and weaken neck muscles.

Many people search for answers like “When should I wear a cervical collar?”, “How long is it safe?”, and “Does it really help neck pain?” — yet clear, doctor-guided information is often missing online.

In this guide, spine specialists at Neurowellness Bangalore explain what a cervical collar is, when it is medically recommended, how long it should be used, its benefits, risks, and expert usage guidelines, so you can make informed decisions and avoid common mistakes.

What Is a Cervical Collar?

A cervical collar, also known as a neck brace, is a medical device used to support the cervical spine (neck region). It helps immobilize the neck to relieve pain, stabilize the spine after an injury, or support recovery after surgery.

Cervical collars are typically prescribed for:

ㆍNeck injuries (like whiplash)
ㆍCervical disc herniation
Post-operative care after spine or neck surgeries
Cervical spondylosis or arthritis
Acute neck pain or nerve compression

Types of Cervical Collars

TypeDescriptionUse Case
Soft CollarMade of foam, allows limited movementMild neck pain, short-term relief
Rigid CollarMade of hard plastic, offers strong immobilizationPost-surgery, fracture, severe injury
Philadelphia CollarTwo-piece rigid collar with tracheostomy openingPost-operative recovery, trauma support

When Should You Use a Cervical Collar?

A cervical collar is not meant for everyday neck pain or casual use. It is a medical device recommended for specific conditions that require neck stabilization or movement restriction.

You should use a cervical collar only when prescribed by a spine or neuro specialist especially in the following situations:

1. Acute Neck Injuries

For sudden trauma or strain—such as sports injuries, falls, or lifting-related neck sprains—a collar provides temporary support while inflammation subsides.

2. Post-Operative Recovery (e.g., Cervical Spine Surgery)

After spine surgeries like discectomy or spinal fusion, collars help keep the neck stable during the healing phase.

3. Whiplash After Accidents

Common in car accidents, whiplash causes sudden neck flexion/extension. A soft or rigid collar can reduce movement and ease pain in the early stages.

4. Disc Herniation or Pinched Nerve

For cervical disc bulges pressing on nerves, short-term use of a collar can help reduce irritation and allow healing.

5. Cervical Spondylosis or Severe Pain

Patients with age-related degeneration or severe neck pain may benefit from intermittent collar use—especially during flare-ups.

Read more: Consult a Spine Surgeon in Bangalore

How Does a Cervical Collar Help?

A cervical collar works by restricting movement in the neck and stabilizing the cervical spine. This controlled support allows the muscles, joints, ligaments, and nerves to heal properly without additional strain.

Here’s how it helps:

1. Immobilizes the Cervical Spine

The collar limits flexion, extension, and rotation of the neck. This immobilization is essential after injuries or surgeries to prevent strain on healing tissues.

2. Reduces Pressure on Nerves

When used correctly, it helps reduce nerve irritation caused by disc bulges, inflammation, or compression in the cervical spine.

3. Prevents Further Damage

In traumatic cases like whiplash, fractures, or herniated discs, the collar prevents sudden or involuntary neck movements that could worsen the injury.

4. Reduces Pain by Limiting Movement

By holding the head in a neutral position and preventing jerky movements, the collar reduces muscle spasms and pain, especially during early recovery.

Risks of Using a Cervical Collar Without Medical Advice

While cervical collars can offer relief and protection, improper or unsupervised use can cause more harm than good. Many patients mistakenly wear neck collars for extended periods without knowing the risks.

Here are the common dangers of misusing a cervical collar:

1. Muscle Weakening with Prolonged Use

Extended use without breaks can cause your neck muscles to weaken, reducing your ability to hold your head upright naturally. This can delay recovery and increase long-term dependence.

2. Skin Irritation

Wearing a collar too tightly or for long durations can cause rashes, pressure sores, or skin breakdown, especially in hot weather or in patients with sensitive skin.

3. Dizziness from Improper Fit

If the collar doesn’t fit well or is too tight, it may restrict blood flow or breathing, leading to lightheadedness, nausea, or even headaches.

4. Psychological Dependency

Some patients grow emotionally dependent on the collar and feel they cannot function without it—even after recovery. This can delay rehabilitation and worsen posture.

How Long Can You Wear a Cervical Collar?

In most cases, a cervical collar is meant for short-term support — the exact duration depends on your diagnosis, severity, and whether you’re recovering after surgery.

Typical duration (general guidance)

  • Soft collar (mild strain / spondylosis flare): usually a few days to 1–2 weeks

  • Rigid collar (fracture / post-surgery): often 3–6 weeks or longer (only if prescribed)

Why wearing it too long can be harmful

If a collar is used longer than needed, it may lead to:

  • Neck muscle weakness

  • Increased stiffness

  • Delayed recovery

  • Dependence on the collar

Cervical Collar for Cervical Spondylosis – Effective Support

Cervical spondylosis is an age-related condition that affects the discs and vertebrae of your neck. A cervical collar for cervical spondylosis can:

● Provide relief by limiting neck movement

● Reduce pressure on nerves

● Support posture correction

● Complement physiotherapy or medication

Tips to Wear a Cervical Collar By Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah

1. Keep moving lightly – walking prevents stiffness.

2. Ensure a snug fit—too tight causes irritation, too loose provides no support.

3. Avoid soft chairs that worsen posture.

4. Don’t lift heavy objects or do high-impact exercises.

5. Wear as advised—don’t overuse unless instructed by your doctor.

Need Help with Cervical Collar Use?

“We see many patients using neck braces without guidance, which leads to chronic stiffness. Cervical collars can help—but only when used correctly and for the right duration. Every case is different,” explains Dr. Ganesh, Neurosurgeon at Neurowellness, Bangalore.

Conclusion

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing cervical spondylosis, or experiencing persistent neck pain, using the right cervical collar can make a significant difference in your healing journey. AtNeurowellness, we combine expert care, advanced medical devices, and personalized support to ensure the best outcomes.

Experiencing Neck Pain or Stiffness?

AtNeurowellness Bangalore, we combine expert care, advanced medical devices, and personalized support to ensure the best outcomes.

Led byDr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah, a highly experienced neurosurgeon in Bangalore, our team offers specialized diagnosis and treatment for neck-related conditions.

Available at Jayanagarand Electronic City.

Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Ganesh Veerabhadraiah
Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon, Neurowellness Bangalore

FAQs:

1. What is the purpose of a cervical collar?

A cervical collar supports the neck by restricting movement, reducing strain on muscles and ligaments, and helping stabilize the cervical spine during injury, nerve irritation, or post-surgical recovery.

2. How long should I wear a cervical collar?

Duration depends on the condition. Mild cases may need it for days to 1–2 weeks, while post-surgery or fractures may require 3–6 weeks or more, strictly under doctor supervision. Prolonged use without guidance can weaken neck muscles.

3. Is it safe to sleep with a cervical collar?

It can be safe only if your doctor advises it, especially after surgery or injury. If worn incorrectly or too tightly, it may cause discomfort, skin irritation, or stiffness. Always ensure proper fitting.

4. Can a cervical collar cure cervical spondylosis?

A cervical collar does not “cure” spondylosis, but it can provide temporary relief during flare-ups by limiting painful movement. Long-term improvement usually needs posture correction, physiotherapy, and medical guidance.

5. When should I consult a neurosurgeon for neck pain?

Consult a specialist if you have:

• Neck pain lasting more than 1–2 weeks
• Pain radiating to the arm
Numbness, tingling, or weakness
Severe stiffness after injury or accident
Balance issues or worsening symptoms