Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS website.
Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature M: MRSA.

Neck Pain And Stiff Neck

Most neck pain only lasts a few weeks. There are things you can do yourself to ease it, but see a GP if it does not go away.

How you can ease neck pain yourself

Do

Don't

  • do not wear a neck collar - it's better to keep your neck moving (unless a doctor tells you not to)

  • do not do anything that could be dangerous because you cannot move your neck - for example, driving or cycling

See a GP if:

  • neck pain or stiffness does not go away after a few weeks
  • painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen have not worked
  • you're worried about the pain
  • you have other symptoms, like pins and needles or a cold arm - this could be something more serious

What can cause neck pain

The most common causes of neck pain are:

  • the neck becoming locked in an awkward position while sleeping
  • bad posture - for example, when sitting at a desk for a long time
  • a pinched nerve
  • an injury - for example, whiplash from a traffic accident or fall

How you can prevent neck pain

Do

  • when sleeping, make sure your head is the same height as the rest of your body

  • have a firm mattress

  • sit upright - roll your shoulders back gently and bring your neck back

Don't

  • do not keep your neck in the same position for a long time - for example, when sitting at a desk

  • do not sleep on your front

  • do not twist your neck when you're in bed

Self-refer for treatment

If you have neck pain, you might be able to refer yourself directly to services for help with your condition without seeing a GP.

To find out if there are any services in your area:

  • ask the reception staff at your GP surgery
  • check your GP surgery's website
  • contact your integrated care board (ICB) - find your local ICB
  • search online for NHS treatment for neck pain near you
OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature M: MRSA. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features.

If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.

 

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