With many of us spending more time on our computers and phones during the coronavirus pandemic, you may find yourself experiencing neck pain more frequently than before.
Discover what can cause neck pain, how to treat it at home and when to see a doctor.
Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain can come from something as simple as a violent sneeze, falling asleep in an uncomfortable position or, most commonly, a long day spent at your computer. Most of the time, neck pain is temporary.
If your neck pain continues or gets worse, the cause might be more serious and you may require additional treatment from a doctor.
Prolonged or chronic neck pain can be an indicator of the following:
- Arthritis
- A herniated disk in the spine
- Neck sprains or strains
- Injury or trauma to the neck
- In rare cases, tumors or cancer
How to Alleviate Neck Pain in Daily Life
Experiencing neck pain regularly? There are many ways you can proactively prevent neck pain – even as you work on your computer throughout the day.
Here are some easy practices you can utilize for reducing that pesky pain in the neck:
- Release the tension. Regular exercise and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and tension in the neck muscles.
- Pay attention to your posture. Stand up straight and keep your shoulders back.
- Take a break. If you work at a computer, take frequent breaks and stretch your neck. Having a standing desk may provide some relief and posture variation throughout the day.
- Be aware of how you use your tech. If you are often tucking your phone into your neck to talk hands-free, consider getting a Bluetooth headset for making calls. Answering emails on your cell phone frequently? Put the device at eye level to avoid craning your neck. When reading or typing from documents at your desk, place them in a holder at eye level. Also ensure that your monitor height is properly adjusted to be at eye-level.
When to Call Your Doctor
It’s time to call your doctor for neck pain if…
- Symptoms persist beyond a week.
- You have swollen glands or feel a lump in your neck.
- You have difficulty swallowing.
- Your pain worsens when you lie down or wakes you up at night.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, don’t hesitate to visit a doctor’s office. University of Maryland Medical System is taking many precautions to keep their facilities safe for care. Telemedicine options are also available.
Your doctor will ask you specific questions and perform a physical exam to evaluate your neck pain. Usually, it will get better in four to six weeks with simple medications.
If your doctor suspects you have a more serious condition, he or she may order an X-ray or MRI of the neck to evaluate the spinal anatomy and get a better understanding of the problem.
Treatments for Neck Pain
For minor neck pain, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), intermittent heat and ice on the painful area and range-of-motion stretching can help ease the pain.
More severe neck pain can also be treated with stretching techniques and physical therapy.
Physical therapists at the University of Maryland Rehabilitation Network, a system of rehab providers across Maryland that work together to help people recover from illness or injury, can help. They can identify the cause of your neck pain and then provide the appropriate therapy to address your symptoms. Some treatments they suggest may include strengthening and conditioning exercises, flexibility exercises, instruction on proper posture, joint mobilization to improve range of motion, as well as nerve mobilization and massage to help relieve pain.
