Neck and head pain has several causes including stress, overuse, injury and illness. For example, a car accident may cause neck and head pain from whiplash or from impact. An illness, such as a sinus infection, may cause head and neck pain from sinus inflammation and aches from muscle weakness caused by the illness. How you relieve that pain depends in large part on the cause of the injury and the severity of the pain.
Step 1
Rest the injured area. If necessary, wear a neck brace to support the weight of your head. Resting allows the injury to heal and prevents further injury.
Step 2
Apply ice and heat to the affected area in 20-minute increments, for one hour, several times a day. Start with ice, transition to heat, and then end with ice. Ice brings down swelling, while heat encourages blood flow and helps relax the muscles.
Step 3
Take an over-the-counter painkiller, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or aspirin. If you are unable to take oral medications, try a topical analgesic such as a menthol-based muscle rub.
Step 4
Use over-the-counter medications designed for your illness. For example, take a decongestant with a pain reliever for a sinus infection.
Things You'll Need
- Neck brace
- Ice pack
- Heat pack
- Over-the-counter medications
