Why Your Neck Hurts and How to Find Relief

Understanding Neck Pain

Did you know that your head actually weighs about 11 pounds? That’s the same as a bowling ball! Now, imagine carrying that weight around all day, it’s no wonder your neck sometimes feels strained.

Your neck’s muscles and joints work tirelessly to support and move your head. But factors like poor posture, injuries, and arthritis can throw things off balance, leading to persistent pain and discomfort. If you’ve ever woken up with a stiff neck or experienced sharp pain while turning your head, you know how limiting it can be.

Those sudden spasms are your body’s way of signaling that something is not functioning correctly. Your neck contains small joints called facet joints, which allow for smooth movement. When these joints become restricted, stiffness and muscle tightness often follow. By understanding the underlying issue and taking the right steps, you can improve movement and reduce the likelihood of pain returning.

The Importance of Neck Health

Your neck has a tough job. It supports your head all day long. If its bones, muscles, and joints do not work harmoniously, discomfort can become a common issue.

A stiff neck can make even the simplest tasks frustrating. Poor sleeping posture, excessive screen time, or a past injury can all contribute to neck pain that should not be ignored. In many cases, the body compensates for restricted movement by overworking other muscles, leading to even more tension and discomfort.

3 Key Things to Know About Neck Pain Relief

1. Recognising the Causes

Long hours at a desk, excessive phone use, or previous injuries can all contribute to neck pain.
Poor posture and misalignment may gradually build tension in the neck and shoulders.

2. Understanding Movement

Restricted facet joints can cause surrounding muscles to tighten, leading to pain and stiffness.
When the neck’s natural motion is limited, it can result in headaches, dizziness, or even discomfort radiating down the arms.

3. Considering a Holistic Approach

Gentle spinal adjustments and targeted stretching can restore movement and reduce tension.
Incorporating better posture habits and taking frequent breaks from screens can help prevent long-term issues.

The Connection Between Posture, Stress and Neck Pain

In today’s digital world, "tech neck" has become increasingly common due to prolonged screen time. Constantly looking down at devices places strain on the neck muscles, often leading to chronic stiffness and discomfort. But neck pain is not just caused by poor posture, stress also plays a significant role too. When stress levels rise, muscles naturally tighten, particularly in the neck and shoulders, resulting in persistent tension.

Here are some tips on how you can ease neck pain:

Adjust your screen height
Take frequent breaks
Exercise to strengthen your neck and upper back
Practice relaxation techniques
Stay active
Seek chiropractic care

Don’t Ignore These Signs, Get the Care You Need

While mild neck pain often resolves on its own, persistent discomfort or symptoms like numbness and tingling should not be ignored. Neck stiffness and discomfort are signs that something needs attention. Even if symptoms come and go, addressing minor issues early can prevent more significant problems in the future.

Stop wondering why your neck hurts! Let us help you. Schedule an appointment here.