Discomfort in Neck, Shoulders, and Back
Hello, I’m a male, 18 years old. For nearly two weeks now, I have been experiencing persistent pain in my neck, shoulders, and back. This discomfort originated in my legs, particularly around my knees, where I felt pain whenever I tried to sit down. Eventually, the knee pain subsided, and now I find myself struggling with this new issue. I visited the emergency room two days ago, and the doctors suggested that my discomfort might be related to the air conditioning. While that explanation makes some sense, I’m still perplexed. My body temperature fluctuates between 37°C and 37.5°C, occasionally dropping to 36.5°C, but only when I feel somewhat improved. What might be causing these symptoms, and why is my recovery taking such a long time?
Answers (1)
8/18/2025, 11:01:49 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing quite a bit of discomfort, and your symptoms have evolved over time, which can understandably be concerning. It’s important to recognize that discomfort in your neck, shoulders, and back can arise from a variety of factors, especially after experiencing knee pain.
Main Points
- Your symptoms may be related to tension or strain in your muscles, possibly worsened by changes in temperature or posture.
- Fluctuating body temperature and ongoing discomfort suggest an underlying issue that might need monitoring and adjustment.
Explanation
Persistent pain in your neck, shoulders, and back can often be attributed to muscle strain or tension, which can occur from various activities or even prolonged sitting positions. The mention of air conditioning in relation to your symptoms could suggest that cooler environments may be causing muscle tightness or discomfort. Stress, poor posture, or even a recent injury could also play a role.
The temperature fluctuations you’re experiencing (from low to normal) are not uncommon and can be associated with the body’s response to pain or discomfort, where it may react to stress or infection. However, since you've recently seen a doctor, it’s a good sign you’re actively seeking attention.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Self-Care at Home:
- Heat Application: Try applying heat to your neck and back for 15-20 minutes several times a day. This can help relax tense muscles.
- Gentle Stretching: Incorporate light stretches for your neck and back to ease tension. Avoid any movements that exacerbate pain.
- Maintain Good Posture: Be mindful of your posture when sitting or standing. Adjust your workspace or seating if necessary to promote better alignment.
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Hydration and Nutrition:
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support muscle health and recovery.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in pain levels, sturdiness, and temperature fluctuations. Note what activities might improve or worsen your condition.
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Rest and Activity Balance:
- Ensure you are getting enough rest, but also try to avoid overly sedentary behavior. Gentle activity like walking can be beneficial.
If your symptoms persist beyond a few more days or worsen, consider seeking further medical evaluation to rule out any underlying issues. Your dedication to addressing this discomfort is important, and following these steps may lead to improvement in your condition. Let me know if you have further questions or need more details!
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