Almost everyone deals with neck pain and stiffness at some point. Sometimes, the cause is apparent. You might have slept in an awkward position or had an injury, such as whiplash. Other times, the cause is less obvious, and the discomfort seems to come out of nowhere. Although, in some cases, a stiff neck can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, like arthritis, more often than not, it’s preventable with some simple adjustments to your routine.

How Neck Pain Affects Your Day

When you have a sore neck, it’s not only uncomfortable, but it can be disruptive. Being unable to turn your head from side to side, for instance, is not only awkward, but it can be dangerous when you need to drive. Neck pain can keep you awake at night, which can lead to fatigue and cause other issues, like headaches and back pain, as you struggle to find a comfortable position and overcompensate with other muscle groups. The pain is usually temporary, but it’s better to avoid it altogether to prevent lasting damage to your joints. 

Simple Ways to Avoid a Stiff Neck 

One of the primary causes of neck pain is the habit of bending your neck down to look at a phone, book, or paperwork for extended periods. Remaining sedentary for hours on end and looking down causes your neck muscles to become tired and irritated, causing pain and stiffness. Taking regular breaks to stretch and change your position can keep this from happening. 

Other ways to prevent a stiff neck include:

• Sleep on the right pillow. A pillow that’s too thick or that doesn’t provide enough support between your neck and the mattress can cause your neck to flex and lead you to wake up with neck pain. 
• Carry weight evenly. Always lugging a heavy purse or briefcase on one side can pull your shoulder down, causing you to strain your neck. Lighten your load by only carrying the essentials, and switch sides often. Better yet, carry a backpack to distribute the weight across your shoulders evenly. 
• Stand up straight. Good posture can prevent strain on your neck and back that leads to pain. Keep your head aligned with your shoulders, chest forward, and stomach tucked in. 
• Stretch. Throughout the day, stop for a stretch break. Backbends, gently twisting from side to side, and neck rolls can all help keep your neck muscles limber; do 5-10 reps of each move.

If you are dealing with neck pain, the professionals at Stoiber Chiropractic in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, can help alleviate the pain and get you back to your normal activities. This compassionate team, led by Dr. Patrick Stoiber, has more than 30 years of experience in chiropractic care and provides chiropractic adjustments, high-intensity laser therapy, therapeutic massage, and other health services to encourage total-body wellness. To schedule an appointment, call (715) 424-8000 today or visit their website for information.