Neck Pain And Stiff Neck

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
try neck flexibility exercises

Don't

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:

neck 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

Refer yourself for back or joint help

In many areas you may be able to get help, such as physiotherapy, from NHS community musculoskeletal (MSK) services without needing a referral from a GP.

Get NHS help for back or joint problems

What can cause neck pain

The most common causes of neck pain 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
have a firm mattress
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
do not twist your neck when you're in bed

Sexual Health Advice

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