Neck pain is a common complaint experienced by many people. Neck pain can be mild, like a simple ache, or it can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities. Many people assume neck pain is simply caused by using the wrong pillow. However, persistent neck pain isn't necessarily simply due to an incorrect sleeping position.
If you are experiencing neck pain that does not improve, it is important to understand what is actually causing the neck pain.
Neck Pain Due to Using the Wrong Pillow: What Usually Happens?
Neck pain due to wrong sleeping position or pillow generally:
- Appears when waking up in the morning
- Neck feels stiff and difficult to turn head
- Neck pain improves in 1–3 days
- Not accompanied by tingling or radiating pain
This type of neck pain is usually mild. With rest, warm compresses, or gentle stretching, the neck pain will gradually improve.
However, if the neck pain does not improve after a few days, or the neck pain occurs more frequently, this condition needs to be taken more seriously.
Why Can Neck Pain Be Persistent?
Prolonged neck pain can occur due to several factors, including:
1. Bad Posture
Prolonged head tilt while using a phone or laptop can trigger neck pain. The persistent forward head position puts extra strain on the neck muscles, leading to chronic neck pain.
2. Sitting Too Long
Office workers often experience neck pain from sitting for hours without stretching. Lack of movement causes muscle tension and can lead to recurring neck pain.
3. Pinched Nerve in the Neck
Neck pain accompanied by tingling, numbness, or pain radiating to the shoulder and arm could be a sign of a pinched nerve. In this condition, the neck pain isn't confined to a single location but can spread.
4. Calcification of the Neck Bones
As we age, the structure of the spine can change. Calcification can cause persistent neck pain and morning stiffness.
5. Injury or Trauma
A history of minor impacts or accidents can also be a cause of prolonged neck pain, even if it initially feels mild.
When Should Neck Pain Be Checked?
Neck pain should not be ignored if:
- Neck pain lasting more than a week
- Neck pain that is getting worse
- Neck pain accompanied by severe headache
- Neck pain radiating to the arm
- Weakness appears in the hands, for example gripping
- Neck pain accompanied by balance disorders
A medical examination is necessary to determine whether the neck pain is just a normal muscle disorder or whether there is a problem with the bones and nerves.
Simple Ways to Reduce Neck Pain
To help prevent and reduce neck pain, you can take the following steps:
- Use a pillow that supports the neck in a neutral position.
- Set the computer screen at eye level
- Avoid looking down for too long
- Do neck stretches every 1–2 hours
- Improve sitting and standing posture
These simple steps can help reduce the risk of recurring neck pain.
Neck pain is often considered trivial, but persistent neck pain should not be ignored. Early and appropriate treatment can prevent more serious spinal and nerve problems.
If you experience neck pain that does not improve or increasingly interferes with your activities, have a further examination at EMC Alam Sutera . With a thorough evaluation, your doctor can help determine the cause of your neck pain and determine appropriate treatment to maintain your quality of life.
Article written by Dr. Jephtah Tobing, MD, B.Med.Sci (Hons), Sp.OT (K-Spine) (Orthopedic & Traumatology Specialist, Spine Consultant at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital & EMC Grha Kedoya).