Understanding Upper Back, Shoulder & Neck Pain: Causes & Relief

Question
I woke up this morning with extreme pain in my left shoulder, arm, and neck(it hurts to turn my head both left and right). Is it possible a pulled a muscle in my sleep? What is the best way to relieve the pain, and help it heal quickly? Thank you for your time.

Answer
Tanisha -

It isn't very likely that you *pulled* a muscle in your sleep, but it is very likely that you got in a strange position that overused a muscle and made it extra tight.  If you are asking for self-care advice to help it, I would try a warm shower and some slow stretches - try to rotate and turn your head very slowly and hold just at the point where it starts to be painful, then breath deep in and out and release.  Repeat a couple times - follow up with a cold compress to prevent inflammation (also reduced pain).

Best Wishes!