Common causes of neck pain include muscle strains, stiffness, poor posture, and spinal compression. Sitting at a computer desk for long periods can also cause neck pain. Treatment options include rest, ice, compression, elevation, light stretching, and surgery for severe cases. Ergonomic chairs and proper screen positioning can also help prevent neck pain.
The neck is part of the spine, so many common spinal problems are causes of neck pain. The most common causes of neck pain include muscle strains from unnatural movement, overuse, or direct trauma. Muscle stiffness can also cause neck pain, which can result from holding the head and neck in one position for an extended period of time or from moving the neck unnaturally for extended periods of time. Poor standing or sitting posture can lead to muscle pain in the neck, as well as spinal compression which can cause nerve pain.
Sitting for long periods of time at a computer desk can be a major cause of neck pain. If the position of the neck is not ergonomically correct, the muscles that support the head are likely to get tired. When muscles get tired, they tend to contract, causing neck pain, headaches, and even shoulder pain. To relieve such pain, you might consider purchasing an ergonomic chair that supports your neck and shoulders, as well as your lower back. If an ergonomic chair isn’t a viable option, you should consider moving your computer screen higher or lower to make sure your head and neck are in the correct position when looking at the screen for extended periods of time.
Spine problems can also be a major cause of neck pain. Spinal compression and herniated discs are common, especially among athletes. A herniated disc occurs when the gel-like fluid between the vertebrae — known as a spinal disc — ruptures and essentially leaks between the vertebrae. The fluid can then put excessive pressure on the nerves that run near the spine, causing pain in the region that the nerve services. A herniated disc can be treated with rest and light stretching, but more severe cases may require surgery to repair the rupture.
Muscle strains occur when tiny muscle fibers begin to tear as a result of excessive stretching or unnatural twisting. One of the most common causes of neck pain, a muscle strain is treated with the RICE method – Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation – and is usually healed within several days or weeks. Light stretching and exercise can help re-strengthen the muscle and improve the range of motion lost during recovery. In severe cases of muscle strain, a complete breakdown of the muscle can occur. Such a break often requires surgery to repair, and the recovery time will be significantly longer.
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