Neck pain can be caused by many different things, such as poor posture, hunching over, arthritis, whiplash, muscle strain, and grinding your teeth. The neck is attached to the spine, which extends from the base of the skull to the bottom of the back; therefore, keeping your back safe and strong is essential in protecting your neck.

Although it is rare, neck pain can at times be a sign of something serious. If, in addition to the pain, you are experiencing severe headaches, shooting pain from the shoulder or arm, numbness in the arms or hands, loss of strength in the arms or hands, trouble talking/swallowing/walking, blurred vision, or loss of balance, call your doctor immediately. Here are some tips to help prevent the development of neck pain.

1. Warm up and cool down after exercising.
2. Stretch after one hour of watching TV or sitting at a computer desk.
3. Try to maintain good posture while standing and sitting.
4. Have a work station that provides great lower back support.
5. Drink water throughout the day to help keep your spine hydrated.

Don’t Do the Following:

1. Balance your phone between your head and shoulder.
2. Fall asleep on the arm of a chair or couch.
3. Sleep on thin pillows that have no neck support.