Neck pain is an all too common condition that afflicts men and women of all ages. However, there are a multitude of treatment options available for sufferers. Simply adjusting one's posture, taking a rest from sitting in front of the television or computer screen and applying heating pads and ice packs are some the ways neck pain can be treated.

Source of Neck Pain

Most neck pain comes from spinal cord injuries, according to backandbodycare.com. These injuries typically happen when ligaments or muscles are strained or sprained through sudden movement, improper movement or overuse. Spraining a ligament can result in swelling of a disc, making it press against a nerve. Neck pain can also be caused by inflammation of neck joints and arthritis, and usually produces a stiffness in the neck and limits its range of motion. Some neck pain is caused by typical daily activities. Sitting improperly or for too long while reading or working at a computer, and sleeping without good neck support can cause pain, according to backandbodycare.com. Playing sports without first warming up, traveling by airplane often and lifting heavy objects can also produce pain.

Treating Neck Pain

Most neck pain can be treated without medication on physical therapy. Top7business.com suggests giving your neck a rest by getting up from the television or computer screen and moving around for a minute. Doing the following stretch can also help: Start by tilting the head from left to right, holding the position and counting to 20 for each side. Then place your hand on top of your head and stretch your neck to each shoulder. Be sure to make these motions slowly and smoothly, as quick motions can lead to injury. Using good posture, whether you are sitting or standing, is also effective in treating neck pain. When you slouch you muscles must work harder to hold up your neck, increasing the chance of neck pain. Always make sure your shoulders are over your hips and your ears are over your shoulders to ensure good posture. Buying chairs that provide good back support can also relieve neck pain, as well as applying heat or cold to the neck. Some prefer heat to cold, but both work well in reducing pain by increasing circulation. Apply the heating pad or an ice pack to the neck for at least 20 minutes. The only time heat should not be used is if the neck is inflamed, because heat can worsen the inflammation. Finally talking on a speakerphone instead of having the phone crooked under your neck can also prevent neck pain.

Warnings

If neck pain is severe and occurs often, a chiropractor or other medical specialist should be consulted, according to essortment.com. Also, constant neck pain should not be treated with aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

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Top 7 Tips To Relieve Neck Pain

Back and Body Care

Neck pain relief