Pain in Back of Head When Sleeping
 

Hello. I had a car accident more than four months ago, on September 4. I was rear ended while stopped in traffic. My head hit the back of the head rest. I had head aches that day. The symptoms went away for a week then came back when I was jump roping. For the first two months after that I had fogginess, fatigue, and pain in the back of my head when sleeping for about two months.

Things started to improve, but the last week or so I've had pain in the back of my head again at night. This happens when I am lying on my back with the back of my head against the pillow. I try to turn on my side, but sometimes in my sleep I rotate and end up on my back again. I tried buying a foam pillow, but it's not working. I haven't been sleeping well and it's affecting my ability to concentrate at work.

I've been to a neurologist and physical therapist, and still didn't get an explanation about where the pain in the back of my head is coming from. I know I hit the back of my head, so it sounds obvious, but it's been four months. I also don't know if I was bruised back there, if I hurt some muscle, or whether there is blood concentrating there. Has anyone experienced this? I'd appreciate any advice on what I should do or what this means.

Thank you!

You are likely suffering from whiplash. It can cause many symptoms that are the same as or similar to a concussion. Neck muscles can spasm and cause pain and headaches.

The key is to not have any lift under you head to tip your head forward. You want to sleep with your head and neck in the same position as when you are sitting upright and looking forward.

Icing your upper neck can help.

Thank you so much Mark!

Do you mean I shouldn't use a pillow when I sleep because that will bend my neck, or should I use a wedge that keeps my neck and back aligned?

You should use whatever helps you keep your head and neck aligned. Many are used to a pillow that tilts their head forward. That lift should be minimal.

A wedge may be rough on the middle spine position.

I appreciate your help. Do you think a neck brace would also help?

Regarding keeping the head and neck aligned, I'm not sure how to do that other than sleeping with no pillow?

might be helpful--
how to pick the best pillow - Google Search

Thank you. There is a medical supply pharmacy near me- I may ask them what pillow they recommend for my injury.

Mark I think I know what you meant: Last night I tried to have both my neck and head on the pillow, instead of just my head, so that my neck and head would be on the same level. That seems to have helped.

Thank you very much!