After a great night’s rest, you’re supposed to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day. If you’re like many people, however, you might awaken to unexplained neck pain instead. Since you can’t permanently solve an issue until you know what’s causing it, it is important to target where the pain is stemming from. Below, learn about the most common reasons for morning neck pain. 

3 Common Causes of Morning Neck Pain 

1. Sleeping on Your Stomach

Many people enjoy sleeping on their stomachs, but the position comes with consequences. To sleep on your stomach, you must twist your head and neck to one side, a position that puts pressure on your nerves when held for hours. This pressure can easily lead to neck pain, so try sleeping on your side or back instead.

2. Using the Wrong Pillow 

Some pillows offer better support than others. A pillow that’s too thick bends your head and neck upwards, while a pillow that’s too thin bends your head and neck downwards and to the side. Both of these positions can cause neck pain. To keep your head in a healthy, neutral position in which your nose stays in line with your spine, try a feather or memory foam pillow.

3. Experiencing Pain From Older Injuries

The physical effects of an injury don’t always appear immediately. If you’ve suffered a sports injury, whiplash, or another form of neck damage in the past few days, it may explain your sudden discomfort. In that case, physical therapy can help you strengthen your neck muscles so that the pain subsides.  

For expert help managing your neck pain, turn to Adams Clinic of Chiropractic in Monroe, GA. With 17 years of experience, Dr. Jeremy T. Adams and his caring staff provide chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and massage therapy to patients throughout Walton County. After treating your current neck pain, Dr. Adams and his team will help you design a personalized plan to prevent the pain from returning, allowing you to feel comfortable and relaxed each time you wake up. Explore the clinic’s services online, and call (770) 267-3277 to schedule an appointment today.