What habits could be linked to my constant neck pain?

Constant Neck Pain

Many people experience neck pain as a result of an injury or medical condition, but there are other ways that you could develop constant, or chronic, neck pain. One of these is the habits you have as you go through your daily routine. 

Neck pain is a common problem for many Americans. It’s estimated that up to 50% of people experience neck pain annually, and medical studies show that about 30% of people who have neck pain develop chronic symptoms. Working with a physical therapist can help you identify habits that could be causing your constant neck pain. Also, these specialists offer effective treatment options for chronic neck pain. 

Three habits that can cause constant neck pain

Many of us don’t think that the movements and tasks that we do every day can trigger chronic neck pain. We expect such pain to come from an injury or medical condition. But there are certain habits that can lead to long-term neck pain, including:

  1. Bending your head forward — Many people spend hours every day bent forward over a smartphone or other device. This is called forward head posture, and it’s a habit that can lead to chronically tense and painful neck muscles. 
  1. Using poor workout form — Using poor form while exercising can also be a habit that leads to chronic neck pain. This is even possible for exercises that aren’t working the neck specifically. For instance, doing pushups with poor form in the neck and shoulders can lead to excess strain on the neck muscles. Consistently using this poor form can then trigger chronic pain.
  1. Looking at an off-center computer monitor — Some people have their work or home computers set up so that the screen isn’t directly in front of them. This forces them to look one way or the other and hold their head in that position for long periods of time. As a result, the muscles on one side of the neck are excessively strained. The result can be long-term tension and pain in the muscles on one side of the neck. 

How can physical therapists help treat your constant neck pain?

There are many ways that physical therapists can assist you with chronic neck pain, including: 

  • Manual therapy designed to improve the flexibility of neck joints and soft tissue. 
  • Dry needling sessions that focus on breaking down knots of tension in neck soft tissue. 
  • Ergonomic training designed to help you address bad posture habits that can lead to future neck pain. 

Find treatment for your constant neck pain at SSOR

Tired of living with constant neck pain? Our team at SSOR offers physical therapy solutions that can help address your pain. We’ll start by doing a free screening of your neck to determine the issue(s) behind your pain. Then, our physical therapists will create an individualized therapy plan for you that’s intended to reduce your pain and prevent future pain. Even better, you can treat your pain without leaving home by signing up for a virtual therapy or at-home care appointment with our therapists.

Contact us today for more information about our neck pain treatment services or to schedule an initial appointment.