As with any other type of joint or muscle pain, neck pain management should include alleviating the pain as well as tracing the pain to its source to stop future neck pain. Taking an over-the-counter painkiller and resting is a good start, but it is only half the treatment. Finding what causes the pain and changing routines or motions to prevent it from happening again is arguably the more important step in neck pain management. Stopping future pain often involves changing daily habits and exercising more or more effectively, as well as daily stretching routines that keep the muscles of the neck limber and strong.
Depending on the cause of the pain, neck pain management may involve trips to the chiropractor. A chiropractor may be able to align the vertebrae in the neck, alleviating some of the pain and lessening the impact of spinal compression. Chiropractic care is not for everyone, however, and sometimes it can exacerbate the pain rather than relieve it. Massage therapy may also be an option, but this may only help muscular issues rather than joint issues. The best course of action for neck pain management is to determine what is causing the pain — muscles, joints, or another issue — and decide on treatment from there.
More serious neck issues, such as a herniated disc or arthritis, will more than likely require professional medical attention. Arthritis occurs when the joints in the neck weaken and begin to deteriorate. Ligaments weaken between bones, allowing bones to rub against each other. This can cause moderate to severe pain that is recurring. Arthritis is often treated with medication, regular exercise, and stretching, though the pain may never fully be relieved. Neck pain management in this case will involve avoiding activities that worsen the pain associated with arthritis, and exercising within one's means.
If the pain is caused by poor posture, neck pain management will involve changing daily routines to promote better posture. Poor posture will tire out muscles more quickly, and when muscles tire, they tend to tighten. The longer the muscles stay tight, the more likely one is to experience pain. If sitting for long periods of time throughout the day, the sufferer may consider purchasing an ergonomic chair that supports the neck and lumbar spine, thereby straightening the spine and relieving some of the pressure on the muscles supporting it. Paying attention to slouching while walking can also help correct posture issues; if the shoulders cave and the neck slouches forward, the sufferer needs to consciously pull the shoulders back and straighten the neck until the stance becomes natural.