Neck pain is common and often improves with gentle movement and simple self-care. Have it checked if it lasts more than a few weeks, spreads down your arm or comes with numbness or weakness. Get urgent help if it follows a significant injury or comes with a severe headache, fever or difficulty walking.
What causes neck pain?
Often there is no serious underlying problem. Common triggers include:
- Staying in one position for a long time, such as at a desk or while driving
- Sleeping in an awkward position
- A sudden movement, or an unaccustomed activity or training load
- Stress and tension
- Age-related joint changes, including osteoarthritis
- Whiplash from a car accident, fall or sport
The Chiropractic Association of South Africa has a separate article on whiplash. If your neck pain is related to desk work, our article on posture and pain may help.
What can you do for neck pain at home?
- Keep your neck moving: gentle, regular movement within your comfort usually helps more than holding it still. NHS guidance on acute neck pain advises keeping as much movement as you can and returning early to normal activities.
- Change position often: take short breaks from your screen or from driving.
- Use heat or cold for comfort: choose whichever feels better, and protect your skin.
- Try simple exercises: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has exercises and videos you can build up gradually. Read its safety information before you start.
- Be careful with soft collars: NHS guidance cautions against relying on them, as your neck needs movement to recover.
- Ask about pain relief: a pharmacist or doctor can tell you what is suitable for you.
When should you have neck pain checked?
Book an assessment with a health professional if:
- Your pain isn’t improving after a few weeks, or it keeps coming back
- It spreads into your shoulder, arm or hand
- You have pins and needles or numbness in your arm or hand
- It often comes with headaches. See when your neck may be involved in headaches.
- It stops you from working, sleeping or training
Which neck pain symptoms need urgent care?
Most neck pain isn’t dangerous, but go to an emergency unit if you have neck pain with any of the following:
- A significant accident, fall or sports collision
- Fever and a stiff neck, or a severe headache
- New weakness in your arms or legs, or difficulty walking or coordinating movement
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Dizziness, double vision, slurred speech, facial droop or difficulty swallowing
How can a chiropractor help with neck pain?
A chiropractor will ask about your symptoms and health history, examine your neck and upper back, check nerve function and refer you if your symptoms need medical care. Depending on the findings and your preferences, care may include advice, soft tissue therapy, exercises or manual treatment.
Neck manipulation carries specific risks that you should discuss before agreeing to it. Our article on chiropractic adjustments explains what they are, and you may ask for a different approach. For an overview of the profession, read what a chiropractor does.
Frequently asked questions
How long does neck pain usually last?
It varies. Many sudden episodes start to improve within days to a few weeks. If yours isn’t improving after a few weeks, have it assessed.
What is the best sleeping position for neck pain?
No single position suits everyone. Choose one that feels comfortable, with a pillow that keeps your neck relaxed.
Is it safe to exercise with neck pain?
Gentle exercise is usually fine if you have no warning signs. Reduce anything that clearly worsens your symptoms, and avoid contact sport until you have been assessed if your pain follows a blow or collision.
You can find out more about chiropractic care or get in touch with any questions.
This article is general information and doesn’t replace an individual assessment by a registered healthcare practitioner.