Neck Pain
Neck pain or stiffness is a common problem and almost two-thirds of the 
population goes through this at some point of their lives.
In case of neck pain, there is nothing much to worry about and the pain and stiffness usually loses its intensity within a few days. If it persists, it may be a sign of a more serious neck problem or underlying condition. Awkward sleeping positions, leaning into your computer at work or hunching over your workbench can be sources of painful or stiff neck.
Symptoms of Neck Pain
While suffering from neck pain, you may feel a knot, stiffness, or severe pain in the region of the neck. This includes areas of the shoulders, upper back, or arms. You may even get a headache from your neck condition. Neck pain and stiffness makes it harder for you to move or turn your head and neck. You might go through pain that shoots down, numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm. It would be wise to consult your doctor at this time.
Causes of Neck Pain
Most neck pains are caused by the straining of the neck. Slouching, painting a ceiling, or awkward sleeping positions such as sleeping with your neck twisted are some things that can cause neck pain. These kinds of activities can strain the neck, cramp neck muscles, or the neck joints may even get swollen.
Injuries can also cause neck pain. For an instance, a fall from a ladder might result in neck pain. However, there is often no obvious reason for neck pain. Doctors will refer this situation to ‘non-specific’.
Management of Neck Pain
The advices are generally the same, whatever the reasons for neck pain or a stiff neck. Carry on with your normal daily activities while keeping a lookout for your condition. Stay active and take painkillers only to relieve the symptoms. Here are some advices for managing your neck pain.
- Place a hot water bottle or heat pack to the part of the neck that is in pain. This helps reduce the pain and chances of muscle spasms.
- Avoid weird sleeping positions. Sleep on a bed, not the sofa. Use a low, firm pillow at night. Avoid the usage of two pillows. This may force your neck to bend unnaturally.
- Take notice of your posture at all times. Bad posture can intensify the pain. It might even have caused it in the first place.
- Avoid wearing neck collars. There is no evidence that proofs the usage of a neck collar can help to heal your neck. In fact, it would be better for you to keep your neck mobile.
If your neck is stiff or twisted, it would be wise to carry out some simple neck exercises. Gently tilt your head up and down and from side to side. This is to reduce the pressure on your neck muscles. In addition to that, these exercises are able to strengthen your neck muscles and improve the movements of your neck.
Take note that if your condition persists or worsen, get immediate help from your doctor for further actions to treat neck pain.