1. Try Medications First
Neck pain can often be adequately controlled through pain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs.) These drugs can be taken on a daily basis and provide continuous pain relief. If there is inflammation in the neck as well, the NSAID will take care of it. Always take NSAIDs with food, however, as they can irritate your stomach.
2. Heat and Massage Provide Intense Relief
For many kinds of neck pain, heat and massage are an excellent combination. Applying heat to the neck relaxes the muscles and increases blood flow to the area, which promotes healing. Massage intensifies these benefits, while providing the overall sense of well-being that comes through touch. A good combination to use is to apply a warm pack to the neck for 10 to 15 minutes, then have a massage. Some massage therapists routinely use heat in conjunction with massage therapy.
3. Wear a Soft Collar for a While
Soft collars are good choices for people with acute neck pain that is a result of an accident. That's why so many cases of whiplash are treated this way. A soft cervical collar will keep your neck immobile and stable for a period of several days, giving it time to heal. Cervical collars are usually not worn for more than a few days at a time, since long-term use can cause the muscles in the neck to weaken.
4. Undergo Surgery
As a last resort, surgery might be an option for your neck pain. People who have bulging or herniated discs in their necks that can't be managed by more conservative methods are often good candidates for surgery. When the neck problem is corrected by a surgeon, there is often a drastic reduction in pain, and it may even disappear altogether. However, due to the inherent risks of surgery, other methods of pain relief should be tried first.
