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What Are the Cures for a Stiff Neck?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

The cures for a stiff neck will usually depend on what is causing the pain. Some of the causes of a stiff neck can be very minor and will require simple treatments such as stretching, rest, or painkilling medication, while other causes are more severe and may require a doctor's attention. It helps to start with easy cures for a stiff neck, such as rest and immobilization, and if those don't work, think about more intense treatments. If the pain becomes extreme, or if other symptoms such as a loss of motor control accompany the pain, see a doctor immediately.

Many stiff necks are caused by overuse or improper use of the neck muscles. Sitting at a computer for long periods of time with the head held in an improper position, for example, can lead to stiffness in the neck and shoulders. In this case, one of the best cures for a stiff neck is movement; it helps to get out of the chair and away from the computer periodically, and looking in various directions every so often will prevent excess strain on the muscles. Regular stretching exercises can help prevent injuries in the long term as well.

Regular stretching, movement, and exercise can help prevent stiff necks from occurring in the first place.
Regular stretching, movement, and exercise can help prevent stiff necks from occurring in the first place.

More severe stiff neck causes may require medical attention. A herniated disc, for example, will sometimes require immobilization using a brace or physical therapy to help restore mobility. In the most severe cases, various surgeries may be cures for a stiff neck, though these are usually reserved for only the most severe cases in which the stiffness worsens or does not abate after time. Nerve compression or damage is another reason surgery may be used, but surgery risks further damage to nerves and other sensitive tissues in and around the neck. Doctors will generally exhaust all other potential cures for a stiff neck before exploring surgery as an option.

An ice pack can give temporary relief for a stiff neck.
An ice pack can give temporary relief for a stiff neck.

Stiff necks can also be caused by direct traumas or other injuries from sports or physical activities. If this occurs, resting and icing the affected area is advised. If the condition persists, a trip to the doctor may be in order, as a muscle tear or strain may have occurred. Fractures of the vertebrae may also lead to stiffness and nerve damage. Anti-inflammatory medications can be used to reduce swelling, and painkillers can reduce discomfort. Immobilization of the neck and head may be required in the event of a neck fracture, or a severe muscle strain.

Discussion Comments

discographer

I took me about six months to realize that the cause of my stiff neck was my pillow. I switched to an orthopedic pillow and the stiffness I experienced in the mornings disappeared. Regular pillows are so bad for the neck.

I like memory foam orthopedic pillows because they take the shape of your neck while sleeping and support the space between the head and the neck.

turquoise

@anamur-- You could wear a posture belt or a cervical collar. Posture belts have tight straps that pull the shoulders back forcing you to sit straight. A cervical collar keeps the neck up.

I personally use a cervical collar all the time. I work in front of the computer all day and tend to crouch over with my neck down. It causes major stiffness, pain and soreness. The collar is great for this, after just one day of use, you will feel a lot better.

You can also try neck massages, stretching exercises for the neck and yoga.

serenesurface

Are there any other remedies for stiff neck from incorrect posture/crouching?

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    • Regular stretching, movement, and exercise can help prevent stiff necks from occurring in the first place.
      By: Monkey Business
      Regular stretching, movement, and exercise can help prevent stiff necks from occurring in the first place.
    • An ice pack can give temporary relief for a stiff neck.
      By: michelaubryphoto
      An ice pack can give temporary relief for a stiff neck.
    • A stiff neck that's caused by a herniated disc may require physical therapy in order to regain mobility.
      By: rob3000
      A stiff neck that's caused by a herniated disc may require physical therapy in order to regain mobility.
    • Some causes of a stiff neck can be very minor, and will require simple treatments.
      By: mangostock
      Some causes of a stiff neck can be very minor, and will require simple treatments.
    • Hot water bottles can be used to soothe sore and stiff muscles of the neck.
      By: PeJo
      Hot water bottles can be used to soothe sore and stiff muscles of the neck.