Types of Pain - Neck Pain

Neck pain can be considered discomfort occurring anywhere in the area of the neck. It may occur as a result of a number of different disorders stemming from any part of the neck, even including the cervical vertebrae.

Causes of Neck Pain
The causes or triggers can include tumors, a herniated cervical disk, any sort of trauma or injury to the neck, simple worry or stress, extended use of a computer keyboard or even falling asleep in an awkward way.

Symptoms of Neck Pain
Some symptoms that may result from neck pain include pain in other areas of your body, like your hand, arm or shoulder, difficulty walking, the sensation of numbness or weakness in your legs, feet, hands or arms, weakness of the muscles in the legs, headaches and a smaller range of motion in your neck.

Coping
If you are suffering from neck pain, here are some tips to help bring about relief:
- Gradually tilt your head from side to side; one inch to the right and to the left.
- Gently massage the area.
- Take an anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication while the pain lasts.
- When seated, aim to remain in a "neutral" position: back straight, legs and head facing forward.
- Tilt your chin to your chest and hold for 10 seconds at a time.
- Try to remain active rather than resting. Go about your daily activities and wear a neck-collar (if prescribed) for no more than a day or two.

It's important to keep in mind that neck pain often lasts less than a week. If it lasts longer than this, be sure to consult a doctor or a physical therapist to determine the cause.

Prevention
To avoid neck pain, try to incorporate the following practices into your daily activities:
- Keep your head fairly level so you aren't exerting your neck by moving it up and down.
- Use the strength of your legs to lift rather than your back. On that note, try to keep heavier objects close to your body when lifting.
- Always take a break every thirty minutes from any activity that requires you to remain still or sedentary. Change your position and stretch out muscles that feel stiff or sore.
- Try not to reach overhead using your arms, especially when an object is far from your body.