Most neck pain is temporary and usually improves within a few weeks.
Causes of Neck Pain
The most common causes include:
- Sleeping in a position that strains the neck.
- Poor posture, particularly from sitting for long durations.
- A pinched nerve.
- Injuries, such as whiplash from accidents or falls.
Here are some tips to help ease the pain.
How to Relieve Neck Pain on Your Own
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen, or use ibuprofen gel on your neck.
- Sleep with a low, firm pillow.
- Apply heat or cold packs to the neck.
- Try neck stretches and flexibility exercises.
- Avoid using a neck collar, as keeping the neck mobile is usually better (unless your doctor advises otherwise).
- Refrain from activities that could be unsafe if your neck movement is restricted, like driving or cycling.
How to Prevent Neck Pain
- Ensure your head aligns with your body while sleeping.
- Use a firm mattress.
- Maintain good posture when sitting by rolling your shoulders back and aligning your neck.
- Avoid holding your neck in one position for long periods, like when sitting at a desk.
- Don’t sleep on your stomach.
- Avoid twisting your neck while in bed.
