Most neck pain only lasts a few weeks. There are things you can do yourself to ease it, but see a GP if it does not go away.
How you can ease neck pain yourself
Do
-
take paracetamol or ibuprofen – or use ibuprofen gel on your neck
-
use a low, firm pillow
-
put heat or cold packs on your neck
Don’t
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do not wear a neck collar – it's better to keep your neck moving (unless a doctor tells you not to)
-
do not do anything that could be dangerous because you cannot move your neck – for example, driving or cycling
See a GP if:
- pain or stiffness does not go away after a few weeks
- painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen have not worked
- you're worried about the pain
- you have other symptoms, like pins and needles or a cold arm – this could be something more serious
What can cause neck pain
The most common causes are:
- the neck becoming locked in an awkward position while sleeping
- bad posture – for example, when sitting at a desk for a long time
- a pinched nerve
- an injury – for example, whiplash from a traffic accident or fall
How you can prevent neck pain
Do
-
when sleeping, make sure your head is the same height as the rest of your body
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have a firm mattress
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sit upright – roll your shoulders back gently and bring your neck back
Don’t
-
do not keep your neck in the same position for a long time – for example, when sitting at a desk
-
do not sleep on your front
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do not twist your neck when you're in bed