Most of the time, neck pain goes away by itself in a couple of days. If at all, only a little conservative treatment may be required. Neck pain that persists over several weeks usually responds to exercise, stretching, physical therapy, massage and watchful waiting. Only in very few cases are steroid injections or surgery indicated.
Try these self-care tips to help relieve the discomfort:
- Posture care. If you work on a computer all day, make sure your back is well-supported and that the monitor is at comfortable eye level.
- Hot or cold. A hot water bath can help relax your strained muscles. Apply an ice pack to your neck for 15 minutes at least 3 times a day.
- Stretch : Turn your neck gently from side to side and up and down to give your neck muscles a work out.
- Massage : Rub the painful areas in your neck to help relieve muscle spasms.
