Stiff neck and headaches can be caused by overuse, stress, poor posture, injuries, and illnesses such as the flu or sinus infections. Regular exercise and good posture can help prevent these symptoms, while pain relievers and rest can help treat them.
Perhaps the most common cause of stiff neck and headaches is overuse of the muscles in the neck and shoulders. The tension caused by tight muscles can lead to a tension headache, which can last for several hours or even a day or more if left untreated. Stress-induced neck and shoulder tension can also cause stiff neck and headaches, as well as poor posture or poor conditioning of the upper body and back muscles. Illnesses such as the flu, a common cold, or sinus infections can also lead to stiff neck and headaches.
Injuries often occur in the neck and shoulders, particularly among athletes or active people. Muscle strains occur when the tiny fibers that make up a muscle begin to tear, causing tension and pain. This tension can lead to stiff neck and headaches if such an injury occurs to the neck, shoulders or upper back, and is especially likely shortly after the injury has occurred. Treating the injured muscle should help relieve stiff neck and headaches, although over-the-counter pain relievers may be needed to ease the aches in some cases. Glazing the affected area and resting it for several hours or even days should help the wound heal quickly.
Poorly conditioned neck and shoulder muscles are more likely to become tired and tight, leading to a stiff neck and headaches. To avoid this, it’s important to strengthen and tone these muscles regularly, as stronger muscles are less likely to tire quickly and consequently become stiff. A regular exercise routine, however minimal, should help relieve normal neck and head pain. You should be sure to look into your daily routines as well, as poor posture can lead to neck and shoulder strain, which in turn can lead to stiff necks and headaches. If this is a concern, you should consider purchasing an ergonomic chair that supports your back and neck.
Illnesses often lead to stiff neck and headaches for a variety of reasons. Flu patients often complain of these symptoms along with many other unpleasant symptoms. The common cold can also lead to such pain, and sinus infections and allergies can lead to headaches and stiff necks, especially if the sufferer coughs and sneezes regularly. The strain on the head and neck, as well as the congestion associated with these conditions, can cause head and neck discomfort. Pain medications and other cold remedies often help clear up such discomfort.
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