1. Early Sign of Arthritis
As we age, our knees, hands and elbows fall prey to arthritis, but the upper neck also develops stiffness from rheumatoid arthritis. Check with your doctor if you think arthritis causes the pain in your neck. Treat minor neck stiffness by taking Motrin or other pain relievers.
2. Getting Old Is a Pain in the Neck
Arthritis isn't the only problem we encounter with the joints and neck vertebrae as we get older. The discs in the neck dry out as we get into our 50s and they can become herniated and spark pain in nearby nerves. Back pain and degenerative spine diseases, like spondylolisthesis, also contribute to persistent neck pain. Neck problems lead to shoulder and back pain if not treated, so exercise and visit your doctor to prevent the stiffness from spreading.
3. Wear Your Seat Belt
One of the most common accident related neck injuries, whiplash, can be caused by the jarring movements caused when a driver's or passenger's head suddenly snaps back from the force of the impact in a rear end collision. This sudden movement makes the soft tissue of the neck stretch unnaturally. The resulting neck pain can range from temporary discomfort to a long-term neck injury that requires a hospital stay.
4. Get Away From That Computer
Too much time spent hunched over a laptop or steering contributes to more than strained eyes and road rage, a stiff and painful neck can result if you're driving or typing too strenuously for too long. Vary your work position and take regular breaks if you use a computer for long periods. Make frequent rest stops or share your driving with a partner to rest your neck and soothe nerves if you're on a road trip. Watch your posture even if you're just sitting on the sofa watching TV. Contorting your neck in any uncomfortable position for too long can result in hours or even days of pain.
5. When to Seek Medical Advice
Most neck aches are a result of aging, muscle strain or stress, but if your neck is painfully stiff or accompanied by a persistent headache, or if the pain in the neck spirals down an arm or leg, consult your doctor as it may be a sign of a tumor or a nerve disease like radiculopathy.
