Pain in the neck?!
Question:
Pain in the neck?
Occasionally I get a stiff neck that hurts a lot and then the pain either travels up into my head or down into my spine. It takes a few days but it always goes away on its own.
What could it be?
Answers:
It is mostly likely muscle spasms triggered by stress or poor posture. Be aware of your posture - especially at the computer - shoulders back, neck straight, put a rolled up towel behind your lower back to put you in a good position. Also is your keyboard too high? Puts stress on the upper back and into the neck. If you are stressed are you clenching your teeth or grinding at night? Try to identify what's going on in your life or what activities you have been doing the next time if flares up. If your posture is poor learn to correct it now before it causes more chronic problems. If stress is the trigger try some deep breathing exercises to relax. If you're grinding or clenching your teeth your dentist can make a mouth guard for you to wear while you sleep.