Neck Pain

Neck pain, headache or something else?

Most neck pain comes from posture, long stretches at a computer, an unsuitable pillow, a muscle strain or stress, and it usually clears up within a few weeks. Neck pain can also cause headaches. For headaches without neck pain or stiffness, see headache. Pain lower down the spine is covered on back pain, and whole-body aches with a fever on muscle aches and cold and flu.

Desk, phone and car set-up

Set your screen at eye level, change position regularly and try alternating between sitting and standing every 30 minutes. Use a headset rather than holding a phone with your shoulder, and adjust your car seat and headrest so your head and neck are supported on long drives. Try not to slouch or push your chin forward. Neck braces and collars are not considered useful unless a health professional advises one, and most people with neck pain do not need a scan.

Call Triple Zero (000) for neck pain after an accident, or with chest pain, shortness of breath or sweating. Seek urgent care if neck pain comes with fever, changes to your vision or hearing, numbness, pins and needles, weakness in your arms or legs, dizziness or confusion.

Sources: healthdirect — Neck pain; healthdirect — How to improve your posture