Sunday, May 19, 2013

Neck pain

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Pain - neck; Neck stiffness


Prevention
  • Use relaxation techniques and regular exercise to prevent unwanted stress and tension to the neck muscles.
  • Learn stretching exercises for your neck and upper body. Stretch every day, especially before and after exercise. A physical therapist can help.
  • If you tend to get neck pain from exercise, apply ice to your neck after physical activity.
  • Use good posture, especially if you sit at a desk all day. Keep your back supported. Adjust your computer monitor to eye level. This prevents you from continually looking up or down.
  • If you work at a computer, stretch your neck every hour or so.
  • Use a headset when on the telephone, especially if answering or using the phone is a main part of your job.
  • When reading or typing from documents at your desk, place them in a holder at eye level.
  • Evaluate your sleeping conditions. Make sure your pillow is properly and comfortably supporting your head and neck. You may need a special neck pillow. Make sure your mattress is firm enough.
  • Use seat belts and bike helmets to prevent injuries.

References

Gross A, Miller J, D'Sylva J, et al. Manipulation or mobilisation for neck pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010 Jan 20;(1):CD004249.

Young IA, Michener LA, Cleland JA, Aguilera AJ, Snyder AR. Manual therapy, exercise, and traction for patients with cervical radiculopathy: a randomized clinical trial. Phys Ther. 2009 Jul;89(7):632-42. Epub 2009 May 21. Erratum in: Phys Ther. 2010 May;90(5):825. Phys Ther. 2009 Nov;89(11):1254-5.

Devereaux MW. Neck pain. Med Clin North Am. 2009;93:273-284.

Graham N, Gross A, Goldsmith CH, Klaber Moffett J, Haines T, Burnie SJ, et al. Mechanical traction for neck pain with or without radiculopathy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008;(3):CD006408.


Review Date: 01/05/2011
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Dept of Orthopaedic Surgery (7/10/2009).

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)