7 Common Causes of Neck Pain

Neck pain is not an uncommon complaint. The majority of the population will suffer from some form of the condition during their lives. While all won’t be severe, neck injuries are common and can be caused by a variety of accidents, habits, and conditions.

1. Posture
   Poor posture is one of the leading causes of minor neck pain. Slouching, leaning, and countless hours slouching in front of a computer monitor can lead to strain in the neck muscles, which leads to persistent aches if not corrected.

2. Whiplash
   Whiplash is often caused by rear-end car collisions, but other activities and traumas can lead to injury as well. While this condition will often lead to stiffness and pain, it is not likely to show up until days after the initial event.

3. Muscle Strain
   Muscle strain can happen for a myriad of reasons. For example, if you play sports or video games, the consistent use of a muscle can lead to overuse or strain. These injuries are common in the upper limbs and often result in some discomfort in the neck.

4. Stress
   Believe it or not, stress can cause neck pain as well. Stress often results in muscle tension in the neck and jawline. If you do not find a way to calm yourself, then repetitive or continual tension can cause stiffness and aches in the neck muscles.

5. Sleep Position
   While the body is often at its most relaxed during sleep, your sleep position may not be ideal for your neck. For example, people who sleep on their stomach or with too many pillows are at a higher risk of neck pain.

6. Trauma
   Trauma in general is a common cause of neck pain, and it doesn’t have to be significant or severe. For example, tripping and falling is often enough to cause an uncomfortable jolt, resulting in strain or whiplash.

7. Cell Phones
   It is hard to walk down the street anymore without seeing several people with their faces glued to their cell phone screens. Unfortunately, this constant staring, or talking into your phone when it is pinched between your ear and shoulder, is horrible for your posture and your neck. Try using the speakerphone option or a Bluetooth headset so you can maintain proper posture while taking a necessary call.

Neck pain and injuries are common. Most of the causes are posture related. However, there are traumatic events that can lead to injury. If you are experiencing neck pain, then consider speaking with a local chiropractor, like a chiropractor in Glen Burnie, MD, about treatment.

Thanks to Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic for their insight into some of the most common causes of neck pain.