Neck pain is a common complaint of many adults, especially those who spend hours seated in front of their desks. Mobile devices and computers have caused many people to position their heads and necks in compromising positions that cause the underlying muscles to tense up, resulting in neck pain.
Apart from this, neck pain or stiffness can also be a result of generally poor posture and overusing the associated muscles. In some cases, neck pain may also be due to injury, sports, or whiplash.
If you are experiencing neck pain and are unsure of the cause, here are a few of the most common culprits that you might be experiencing:
Muscle Tension and Strain
Muscle tension and strain are some of the most common causes of neck pain. The muscles tense up and get strained due to certain activities and behaviors, such as poor posture, working at a desk for too long, and sleeping with your neck in a bad position.
Individuals who experience muscle tension and strain around the neck usually spend a lot of time in front of their computers every day.
According to Harvard Health, you can prevent neck pain by keeping your head balanced directly over your spine as much as possible. To achieve this, you need to set your chair’s height so that both feet are rested on the ground and your buttocks positioned far back in the chair. You can use a small pillow to cushion your lower back for additional support.
Injury, Stress, and Anxiety
Neck pain may also be due to injury as it’s a vulnerable part of the body, especially in car accidents, falls, and sports. Another common cause of neck pain is stress and anxiety. Stress is known to cause muscle tightness. Some people have tense neck muscles without realizing it until they feel pain.
Performing neck stretches can help loosen muscle tightness. On the other hand, if neck pain is caused by stress and anxiety, cognitive behavioral therapy is proven to provide benefits to help people develop healthy thought patterns. Meditation is also a great way to relieve stress as it’s an effective way to calm your mind.
Poor Sleeping Position
If you wake up with neck pain, as well as pain in the shoulders and back, it could be due to a poor sleeping position. Your sleeping position impacts your muscles. When sleeping, it is recommended to have proper support for the head and the neck. Sleeping on your back or on your side is highly recommended to prevent neck pain upon waking up.
Conclusion
These are the most common causes of neck pain. Neck pain can be debilitating, so it’s crucial to be mindful of it when you’re sleeping, working at your desk, or doing activities such as sports.
Albeit most of the causes are not serious, if you experience other symptoms, such as numbness or loss of strength in your arms or hands that accompany the neck pain, it’s best to consult with your doctor.
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