Three Common Causes of Neck Pain and How to Alleviate Them

Neck pain is a common issue that various factors can cause. It can be acute or chronic and can significantly impact your daily activities. Here are three common causes of neck pain and how to alleviate them.

Poor Posture

A leading cause of neck pain is poor posture. Poor posture occurs when the spine is not aligned correctly, putting undue stress on the neck and surrounding muscles. Common examples of poor posture include:

• Slouching at your desk
• Holding your phone between your neck and shoulder
• Keeping your head forward while using a computer

To alleviate neck pain caused by poor posture, being mindful of your body position is crucial. Ensure your desk and computer are ergonomically correct, and take breaks to move around and stretch throughout the day. Additionally, yoga and Pilates can improve your posture and strengthen your neck and back muscles.

Muscle Strain

Another leading cause of neck pain is muscle strain. Muscle strain can occur from sudden movements, such as whiplash or from overuse, like holding your head in the same position for an extended period. Symptoms of muscle strain include a dull ache or sharp pain in the neck, shoulder or upper back.

To alleviate neck pain caused by muscle strain, it is essential to rest the affected area and avoid any activities that can exacerbate the pain. Ice or heat therapy can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Additionally, over-the-counter pain medication can provide temporary relief. However, if the pain persists for over a few days, it is vital to seek medical attention.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is a condition that happens when the discs between the vertebrae within the spine begin to break down. As the discs degenerate, they lose their ability to cushion the vertebrae, causing pain and stiffness in the neck and back. Symptoms of degenerative disc disease include neck pain, numbness or tingling in the arms and weakness in the arms or hands.

It is essential to seek medical attention to alleviate neck pain caused by degenerative disc disease. Treatment options may include physical therapy, pain medication and surgery in severe cases. Additionally, avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy weight can help to prevent further degeneration of the discs.

Schedule a Consultation for Your Neck Pain

A variety of factors can cause neck pain. Therefore, be mindful of your body position, rest the affected area and seek medical attention if the pain persists. Hanowell Spine Clinic offers a range of treatment options for neck pain, including physical therapy, pain medication and minimally invasive surgery. Contact Hanowell Spine Clinic today to book a consultation and get closer to a pain-free neck.