How to relieve neck pain from a stiff neck

Neck strain, or a stiff neck, is usually caused by sleeping in an incorrect position or using an unsuitable pillow, leading to sprained or tense neck muscles. The following are some methods to relieve neck pain: 1. Apply heat: Use a hot water bag or a warm towel on the painful area of your neck to help relax the muscles, improve blood circulation, and alleviate pain. 2. Gentle stretching: Perform mild neck exercises, such as slowly turning your head, tilting it sideways, and bending it forward and backward. Avoid vigorous movements that might worsen the pain. 3. Massage: Gently massage the painful area to help relieve muscle tension. 4. Over-the-counter medications: If the pain is severe, short-term use of over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) may help reduce inflammation and pain. 5. Maintain proper posture: Keep good sitting and standing posture, and avoid looking down for prolonged periods, especially when using electronic devices. Seek medical attention promptly if the pain persists or if symptoms such as headache, arm numbness, or blurred vision occur.