Why your neck pain needs a doctor's attention, not your best friend's 2-minute hack

Neck pain has a funny way of sneaking into daily life. One morning you wake up stiff. By afternoon, you’re rubbing the same spot again and again. By evening, your best friend says, “Oh, just crack it like this,” and suddenly everyone around you has an opinion.

Heat pack. Cold pack. That stretch from Instagram. That one pillow that “changed everything.” And before you know it, you’re trusting a two-minute hack over medical advice because, honestly, it feels quicker and cheaper.

When quick fixes and that cracking sound feel tempting

Your neck is doing a lot more than holding your head up. It protects the spinal cord, supports blood vessels that supply your brain, and keeps nerves working the way they should. And this is where people get it wrong.

Pain relief isn’t the same as healing. Many hacks work by forcing the neck to move past its comfort zone. That cracking sound people love? It doesn’t mean something went back “into place.” The underlying problem could still be there.

Sometimes worse.“Currently, a large number of office-goers are struggling with back and neck pain that is interfering with their daily routine. Long hours at the desk can take a toll on your spine.

Hence, understanding the causes and adopting simple habits can keep pain at bay. It is time that the working population prioritizes their spine health instead of struggling in silence,” Dr. Vishal Lapshia, Consultant Orthopedician & Joint replacement surgeon, AIMS Hospital, Dombivli.

“The causes of back and neck pain are spending long hours sitting in front of computers, slouching, hunching, poor posture, and inadequate breaks, which cause pressure on the muscles, ligaments, and spine.

Repetitive movements, carrying heavy bags, and the absence of exercise can lead to muscle fatigue and stiffness. Stress can further worsen muscle tension and induce constant pain that can impact the pace of the mind.

While occasional discomfort is normal, persistent pain can cause issues such as immobility or getting bedridden if neck and back pain are not managed at the right time,” says the doctor.

Treatment and preventive measures

The doctor advises involving ergonomic adjustments like using chairs with proper lumbar support, keeping monitors at eye level, and positioning keyboards and mice for comfort as per the requirement.

Take short breaks every hour to stretch or walk around. Avoid slouching or carrying heavy bags at work, and maintaining proper posture is important. Incorporating regular exercise and core-strengthening routines can improve muscle support for the spine.“So, the doctor will suggest medication to manage pain, physiotherapy to strengthen muscles, and reduce pain. Moreover, spinal injections may be advised for pain management. Opting for hot and cold therapy will also help. Some cases may require surgery as advised by the expert when the pain is excruciating and unbearable. Follow the doctor’s advice to improve well-being,” the expert advises.

It is the need of the hour to have a proactive approach to spine health today to ensure comfort and mobility for the future.