Why do i wake up with neck pain. Neck Pain in the Morning: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Strategies
What causes neck pain when waking up. How to treat morning neck discomfort. Which preventive measures can reduce neck pain upon awakening. Why does sleep position affect neck comfort. How do pillows impact neck health during sleep.
Common Causes of Morning Neck Pain
Waking up with a sore or stiff neck can be a frustrating way to start the day. Understanding the underlying causes of morning neck pain is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Here are some of the most common reasons why you might experience neck discomfort upon awakening:
- Sleeping position
- Pillow type and quality
- Sudden movements during sleep
- Previous injuries
- Poor daytime posture
- Underlying medical conditions
The Impact of Sleeping Position on Neck Health
Your sleeping position plays a significant role in determining whether you wake up with neck pain. Sleeping on your stomach is particularly problematic for neck health. This position often requires you to twist your neck to one side for extended periods, leading to muscle strain and stiffness come morning. Additionally, stomach sleeping can put undue pressure on your spine, especially if your mattress lacks proper support.
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The Role of Pillows in Neck Comfort
The pillow you use can make a substantial difference in your neck’s comfort throughout the night. A pillow that fails to provide adequate support for your head and neck can create tension in the neck muscles, resulting in pain upon waking. Feather or memory-foam pillows are often recommended as they allow your head to be cradled, promoting a neutral alignment of the spine and neck.
Treating Morning Neck Pain: Effective Home Remedies
If you find yourself waking up with neck pain, there are several home remedies you can try to alleviate the discomfort:
- Apply ice or a cold pack to the sore area for 20 minutes at a time to reduce inflammation.
- Use a heat pack on the affected area for 20 minutes if the pain has persisted for more than a day.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen.
- Engage in gentle exercises like walking or yoga to promote blood flow to the neck.
- Avoid complete immobility, as this can lead to muscle tightening.
Are these remedies always effective? While these home treatments often provide relief, persistent or severe neck pain may require professional medical attention.

Preventive Measures to Reduce Morning Neck Pain
Taking proactive steps to prevent neck pain can significantly improve your quality of sleep and overall well-being. Consider implementing these strategies:
- Adjust your sleeping position: If you’re a stomach sleeper, try switching to your side or back.
- Use a pillow between your legs when side sleeping to maintain spine alignment.
- Ensure your pillow maintains proper neck alignment, regardless of your sleeping position.
- Invest in a high-quality pillow that conforms to your head and neck shape.
- Replace your pillow regularly, especially if it’s a feather pillow.
- Avoid pillows that are overly stiff or thick, as these can cause neck muscle flexion overnight.
The Connection Between Daytime Activities and Nighttime Neck Pain
Your daily activities and habits can have a significant impact on whether you wake up with neck pain. Poor posture during the day, especially while working at a computer or watching television for extended periods without changing position, can lead to neck strain that manifests as pain in the morning. How can you improve your daytime habits to prevent neck pain?

- Practice good posture throughout the day
- Take regular breaks from prolonged sitting or screen time
- Perform neck stretches and exercises
- Adjust your workstation ergonomics
- Be mindful of your neck position during daily activities
Understanding the Link Between Medical Conditions and Morning Neck Pain
In some cases, waking up with neck pain may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Osteoarthritis in the upper spinal joints, nerve compression caused by a herniated disk, or bone spurs can all contribute to morning neck discomfort. If your neck pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Neck Pain
While occasional morning neck pain can often be managed with home remedies, certain situations warrant professional medical evaluation. Seek medical attention if:
- The pain persists for more than a week despite home treatments
- You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or hands
- The pain is accompanied by headaches or dizziness
- You have difficulty swallowing or breathing
- The pain is severe or worsening over time
The Importance of Sleep Quality in Preventing Neck Pain
Quality sleep is essential not only for overall health but also for preventing neck pain. Poor sleep habits can contribute to muscle tension and discomfort. How can you improve your sleep quality to reduce the risk of waking up with neck pain?

- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Create a comfortable sleep environment
- Practice relaxation techniques before bedtime
- Invest in a supportive mattress
- Limit screen time before bed
- Address any sleep disorders or disturbances
Exercise and Stretching: Key Components in Neck Pain Prevention
Regular exercise and stretching can play a crucial role in preventing morning neck pain. Strengthening the muscles that support your neck and improving flexibility can reduce the risk of strain and discomfort. What are some effective exercises and stretches for neck health?
- Neck rotations
- Shoulder shrugs
- Chin tucks
- Isometric neck exercises
- Yoga poses that focus on neck and shoulder flexibility
Remember to perform these exercises gently and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort. Consulting with a physical therapist can provide personalized guidance on the most appropriate exercises for your specific needs.
The Role of Stress Management in Reducing Morning Neck Pain
Stress can significantly contribute to muscle tension, including in the neck and shoulder area. This tension can accumulate over time, leading to pain and discomfort when you wake up. Implementing effective stress management techniques can help alleviate this tension and reduce the likelihood of morning neck pain. Consider incorporating the following strategies into your daily routine:

- Meditation and mindfulness practices
- Deep breathing exercises
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Regular physical activity
- Time management and prioritization
- Seeking support from friends, family, or professionals
By addressing stress in your life, you may find that you experience less neck pain and overall physical tension, leading to more comfortable and restful sleep.
The Impact of Technology Use on Neck Health
In today’s digital age, excessive use of smartphones, tablets, and computers can contribute to neck pain and discomfort. The phenomenon known as “text neck” occurs when people spend long periods looking down at their devices, putting strain on the neck muscles and spine. How can you mitigate the effects of technology use on your neck health?
- Hold devices at eye level to maintain proper neck alignment
- Take frequent breaks from screen time
- Use voice commands or dictation features when possible
- Implement ergonomic setups for desktop and laptop computers
- Practice neck stretches and exercises throughout the day
By being mindful of your technology use and implementing these strategies, you can reduce the risk of developing neck pain that persists into the morning hours.

Nutritional Considerations for Neck Health and Pain Prevention
While often overlooked, nutrition plays a role in overall musculoskeletal health, including the neck. Certain nutrients and dietary habits can contribute to reduced inflammation and improved muscle and joint function. What nutritional strategies can support neck health and potentially reduce the risk of morning neck pain?
- Maintain adequate hydration to support joint lubrication and muscle function
- Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids for their anti-inflammatory properties
- Ensure sufficient calcium and vitamin D intake for bone health
- Include antioxidant-rich foods to combat oxidative stress
- Consider collagen supplements, which may support connective tissue health
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on the neck and spine
While nutrition alone may not prevent all instances of neck pain, a balanced diet can contribute to overall musculoskeletal health and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of morning neck discomfort.

The Potential Benefits of Alternative Therapies for Neck Pain
In addition to conventional treatments and preventive measures, some individuals find relief from morning neck pain through alternative therapies. While the effectiveness of these approaches can vary from person to person, they may be worth considering as part of a comprehensive approach to neck health. What are some alternative therapies that may help alleviate neck pain?
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Herbal remedies and supplements
- Aromatherapy
- Biofeedback
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any alternative therapies, especially if you have ongoing neck pain or other health conditions. These approaches should complement, not replace, conventional medical care when necessary.
Long-term Strategies for Maintaining Neck Health and Preventing Pain
Preventing morning neck pain and maintaining overall neck health requires a multifaceted, long-term approach. By incorporating various strategies into your daily life, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of waking up with neck discomfort. What are some key long-term strategies for optimal neck health?

- Regularly assess and update your sleep environment, including pillows and mattresses
- Maintain good posture throughout the day, both at work and during leisure activities
- Engage in regular exercise that includes neck-strengthening and flexibility exercises
- Practice stress management techniques consistently
- Be mindful of technology use and implement ergonomic practices
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods
- Schedule regular check-ups with healthcare professionals to address any emerging issues
- Listen to your body and make adjustments to your habits as needed
By implementing these strategies and remaining consistent in your efforts, you can create a foundation for long-term neck health and reduce the frequency of morning neck pain. Remember that everyone’s needs are unique, so it may take some experimentation to find the combination of approaches that works best for you. With patience and persistence, you can wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free more often, setting a positive tone for your day.
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Waking Up with Neck Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
In most cases, a sore neck in the morning results from your sleeping position, the type of pillow you use, or other sleep issues. It could also be related to an underlying condition like an injury or osteoarthritis.
Waking up with a sore neck is not how you want to start your day. It can quickly bring on a bad mood and make simple movements, like turning your head, painful.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the causes of morning neck pain and what you can do to feel better.
You may not give much thought to your body position while you sleep or the kind of pillow you use. But both your sleeping position and pillow can trigger a stiff, sore neck, and also lead to back pain and other types of pain.
Research shows that sleeping problems may be at the root of up to 5 percent of new cases of chronic pain. Many of these factors are controllable, which means that by making some changes you may be able to alleviate your neck pain, and other types of pain, too.
Your sleeping position
Everyone has their preferred sleeping position. But if yours is on your stomach, you’re not doing your neck any favors. When you sleep on your stomach, your neck may be twisted to one side for hours at a time. This can strain your neck muscles, and make them feel sore and stiff in the morning.
Tummy sleeping can also put a strain on your back, especially if you sleep on a mattress without a lot of support. This can cause your belly to sink into the bed, which can put stress and pressure on your spine and the muscles in your back.
Your pillow
Your head and neck spend many hours every night on your pillow, which is why choosing the right one is key to a healthy, pain-free neck. A pillow that doesn’t support your head and neck properly can create tension in your neck muscles, and cause neck pain.
Feather or memory-foam pillows may allow your head to be “cradled” at night, allowing for a neutral spine and neck.
Sudden movement
Sudden movements, like sitting up quickly or flinging your limbs around in a dream, can strain your neck muscles.
Tossing and turning while you’re sleeping, or trying to sleep, can also create tension and stress in your neck.
Previous injury
Some kinds of injuries, like whiplash or sports injuries, may not always hurt at first. The full physical effects may only be felt days later. If you were injured in a way that might have hurt your neck, you may go to bed feeling okay, but wake up the next morning with a very sore, stiff neck.
Other causes of neck pain when you wake up
There are certainly other causes that can also contribute to you waking up with neck pain. In some cases, you may develop a sore neck during the day, too. Some common causes of neck pain include:
- poor posture during the day
- working too long at a computer, or watching television for too long without changing positions
- osteoarthritis in one of the upper spinal joints
- nerve compression caused by a herniated disk or bone spur in your neck
If you wake up with a sore neck, there are several remedies you can try to help ease the pain.
You likely don’t need to see a doctor, especially if you don’t have any other symptoms, and you haven’t had a sore neck for long. Here are some self-care options you can try:
- Apply ice or a cold pack to the sore part of your neck for 20 minutes at a time. This can help reduce inflammation in your neck muscles.
- If you’ve had pain for a day or more, apply a heat pack to the sore area for 20 minutes at a time. This can help to soothe and relax the muscles.
- Try over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
- Do some gentle exercises, like walking or yoga. This can help keep the blood flowing to your neck. Don’t stop moving altogether. Not moving can cause your muscles to tighten up.
To help prevent neck pain when you wake up, there are steps you can take to support your neck and reduce the strain on your neck muscles.
- If you usually sleep on your stomach, try sleeping on your side or back instead.

- If you sleep on your side, try putting a pillow between your legs. This can help keep your neck aligned with your spine.
- When sleeping on your side, make sure the pillow isn’t higher under your head than it is under your neck. Straining your muscles even a little during the night can cause soreness by morning.
- Try using a feather pillow, which can conform easily to the shape of your neck and head. Feather pillows tend to lose their shape over time, so it’s best to replace them every year or two.
- Pillows made with “memory foam” can also conform to the contours of your head and neck, and can help keep your neck supported.
- Avoid using a pillow that is too stiff or too deep. This can cause your neck muscles to be flexed overnight.
- If your mattress is sagging in the middle, consider replacing it with a medium-firm mattress that can support your back and neck.
- During the day, try to maintain proper posture when standing, walking, and sitting, particularly when at a desk or using a computer.
Avoid hunching your shoulders and bending your neck too far forward. - Try to hold your phone at eye level instead of bending your neck forward to look at it.
- Avoid tucking your phone between your ear and your shoulder.
- Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help strengthen your muscles, including those in your neck. It can also help improve your posture and relieve stress that may be causing stiff muscles.
A couple of simple exercises can help keep your neck muscles strong and limber, which may reduce the risk of waking up with pain in your neck.
Neck stretch
- Stand up straight with your hands at your sides.
- With your neck and back straight, slowly turn your head to the left until you feel a slight stretch.
- Hold for 10 to 20 seconds and then slowly turn your head to the right and do the same thing.
- Repeat 3 or 4 times on each side. You can do this exercise every day.
Dumbbell shrug
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.

- Keep your chin up and your neck straight.
- With a dumbbell in each hand (or a full milk jug or similar object), slowly move your shoulders up towards your ears. Do the movement slowly so that you feel the muscles contract in your upper back and neck.
- Hold for a second and then lower your shoulders back down as you exhale.
- Repeat 8 to 10 times. Try this exercise 3 times a week.
Neck pain can often heal on its own. If your sore neck doesn’t get better after a few days of self-care, or if the pain gets worse, consider seeing your doctor to find out what’s causing your pain.
It’s important to call your doctor immediately if you have neck pain and any of these symptoms:
- fever
- headache
- chest pain and shortness of breath
- a lump in your neck
- swollen glands
- difficulty swallowing
- numbness or tingling in your limbs
- pain that spreads down your arms or legs
- bladder or bowel problems
Waking up with a sore neck is a common problem.
But there are ways to help resolve this issue.
Consider making changes to your pillow, mattress, and sleeping position, and make sure your sleeping environment is as comfortable as possible.
During the day, pay attention to your posture and try to shift your position often so your muscles stay relaxed and limber. Regular exercise can also help keep your neck muscles healthy and strong.
Waking Up with Neck Pain: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
In most cases, a sore neck in the morning results from your sleeping position, the type of pillow you use, or other sleep issues. It could also be related to an underlying condition like an injury or osteoarthritis.
Waking up with a sore neck is not how you want to start your day. It can quickly bring on a bad mood and make simple movements, like turning your head, painful.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the causes of morning neck pain and what you can do to feel better.
You may not give much thought to your body position while you sleep or the kind of pillow you use.
But both your sleeping position and pillow can trigger a stiff, sore neck, and also lead to back pain and other types of pain.
Research shows that sleeping problems may be at the root of up to 5 percent of new cases of chronic pain. Many of these factors are controllable, which means that by making some changes you may be able to alleviate your neck pain, and other types of pain, too.
Your sleeping position
Everyone has their preferred sleeping position. But if yours is on your stomach, you’re not doing your neck any favors. When you sleep on your stomach, your neck may be twisted to one side for hours at a time. This can strain your neck muscles, and make them feel sore and stiff in the morning.
Tummy sleeping can also put a strain on your back, especially if you sleep on a mattress without a lot of support. This can cause your belly to sink into the bed, which can put stress and pressure on your spine and the muscles in your back.
Your pillow
Your head and neck spend many hours every night on your pillow, which is why choosing the right one is key to a healthy, pain-free neck.
A pillow that doesn’t support your head and neck properly can create tension in your neck muscles, and cause neck pain.
Feather or memory-foam pillows may allow your head to be “cradled” at night, allowing for a neutral spine and neck.
Sudden movement
Sudden movements, like sitting up quickly or flinging your limbs around in a dream, can strain your neck muscles. Tossing and turning while you’re sleeping, or trying to sleep, can also create tension and stress in your neck.
Previous injury
Some kinds of injuries, like whiplash or sports injuries, may not always hurt at first. The full physical effects may only be felt days later. If you were injured in a way that might have hurt your neck, you may go to bed feeling okay, but wake up the next morning with a very sore, stiff neck.
Other causes of neck pain when you wake up
There are certainly other causes that can also contribute to you waking up with neck pain. In some cases, you may develop a sore neck during the day, too.
Some common causes of neck pain include:
- poor posture during the day
- working too long at a computer, or watching television for too long without changing positions
- osteoarthritis in one of the upper spinal joints
- nerve compression caused by a herniated disk or bone spur in your neck
If you wake up with a sore neck, there are several remedies you can try to help ease the pain. You likely don’t need to see a doctor, especially if you don’t have any other symptoms, and you haven’t had a sore neck for long. Here are some self-care options you can try:
- Apply ice or a cold pack to the sore part of your neck for 20 minutes at a time. This can help reduce inflammation in your neck muscles.
- If you’ve had pain for a day or more, apply a heat pack to the sore area for 20 minutes at a time. This can help to soothe and relax the muscles.
- Try over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), or acetaminophen (Tylenol).

- Do some gentle exercises, like walking or yoga. This can help keep the blood flowing to your neck. Don’t stop moving altogether. Not moving can cause your muscles to tighten up.
To help prevent neck pain when you wake up, there are steps you can take to support your neck and reduce the strain on your neck muscles.
- If you usually sleep on your stomach, try sleeping on your side or back instead.
- If you sleep on your side, try putting a pillow between your legs. This can help keep your neck aligned with your spine.
- When sleeping on your side, make sure the pillow isn’t higher under your head than it is under your neck. Straining your muscles even a little during the night can cause soreness by morning.
- Try using a feather pillow, which can conform easily to the shape of your neck and head. Feather pillows tend to lose their shape over time, so it’s best to replace them every year or two.
- Pillows made with “memory foam” can also conform to the contours of your head and neck, and can help keep your neck supported.

- Avoid using a pillow that is too stiff or too deep. This can cause your neck muscles to be flexed overnight.
- If your mattress is sagging in the middle, consider replacing it with a medium-firm mattress that can support your back and neck.
- During the day, try to maintain proper posture when standing, walking, and sitting, particularly when at a desk or using a computer. Avoid hunching your shoulders and bending your neck too far forward.
- Try to hold your phone at eye level instead of bending your neck forward to look at it.
- Avoid tucking your phone between your ear and your shoulder.
- Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help strengthen your muscles, including those in your neck. It can also help improve your posture and relieve stress that may be causing stiff muscles.
A couple of simple exercises can help keep your neck muscles strong and limber, which may reduce the risk of waking up with pain in your neck.
Neck stretch
- Stand up straight with your hands at your sides.

- With your neck and back straight, slowly turn your head to the left until you feel a slight stretch.
- Hold for 10 to 20 seconds and then slowly turn your head to the right and do the same thing.
- Repeat 3 or 4 times on each side. You can do this exercise every day.
Dumbbell shrug
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Keep your chin up and your neck straight.
- With a dumbbell in each hand (or a full milk jug or similar object), slowly move your shoulders up towards your ears. Do the movement slowly so that you feel the muscles contract in your upper back and neck.
- Hold for a second and then lower your shoulders back down as you exhale.
- Repeat 8 to 10 times. Try this exercise 3 times a week.
Neck pain can often heal on its own. If your sore neck doesn’t get better after a few days of self-care, or if the pain gets worse, consider seeing your doctor to find out what’s causing your pain.
It’s important to call your doctor immediately if you have neck pain and any of these symptoms:
- fever
- headache
- chest pain and shortness of breath
- a lump in your neck
- swollen glands
- difficulty swallowing
- numbness or tingling in your limbs
- pain that spreads down your arms or legs
- bladder or bowel problems
Waking up with a sore neck is a common problem.
But there are ways to help resolve this issue.
Consider making changes to your pillow, mattress, and sleeping position, and make sure your sleeping environment is as comfortable as possible.
During the day, pay attention to your posture and try to shift your position often so your muscles stay relaxed and limber. Regular exercise can also help keep your neck muscles healthy and strong.
How to get rid of neck pain after sleep, the main causes of pain
After waking up, a person should feel rested and full of energy. However, it often happens that after resting we get up with neck pain, sometimes severe enough to prevent us from working normally and performing daily tasks. If you often suffer from such a nuisance, you need to visit a doctor and undergo diagnostic procedures to determine the causes of the ailment.
Causes of neck pain after sleep
If the neck hurts after sleep, the causes can be divided into two groups. Namely:
Non-pathological.
Non-pathological include an uncomfortable or incorrect sleeping position. This means that during rest, due to the incorrect position of the head, the nerve endings of the spinal cord are infringed, which leads to incorrect impulses to the brain about the need for muscle tension to protect the injured area. As a result, swelling can develop and severe burning pain in the neck appears. In this case, it is enough to do a little exercise, rub the sore spot and take a warm shower.Pathological. Pathological causes are a number of diseases that lead to neck pain after sleep. Here it will not be enough to stretch the muscles of the neck – you need to contact the doctor to determine the cause of the pain syndrome and prescribe treatment.
Cervical sciatica
It is an inflammation of one or more roots of the spinal nerves. Infectious processes, hypothermia, as well as pinched nerves can lead to it. In this case, the pain is localized in the neck and partly in the back of the head, sometimes even the temperature rises.
Radiculitis most often occurs in overweight people, and also due to increased stress on the neck. Prevention of the disease is simple – it is enough to work and rest in moderation, choose hard mattresses for sleep, and also not start inflammatory processes. All this will allow you not to think about what to do if your neck hurts after sleep.
Cervical osteochondrosis
Metabolic problems, excessive exercise and spinal injuries increase the wear and tear of the vertebrae in the cervical region. In the absence of proper treatment, a person will experience severe pain due to the destruction of cartilage in the spinal column. Due to the fact that the distance between the vertebrae decreases, pinching of the nervous tissue occurs, and the person experiences severe pain. All the symptoms inherent in infringement can join cervical osteochondrosis – numbness of the limbs and skin areas, tingling, shooting pains.
Myositis of the muscles of the cervical segment
If your neck hurts after sleeping, an experienced doctor can tell you what to do.
It is possible that the problem lies in the development of myositis. It can be triggered by influenza, chronic tonsillitis, hypothermia and drafts, as well as constant physical exertion on the neck. The soreness of the area sharply increases when you try to turn your head or tilt it. The muscles swell slightly, and there may be an unpleasant tingling sensation.
Stress and emotional strain
Often the head and neck hurt after sleep in people who are stressed. Because of the nerves, muscle spasm in the cervical region can occur, and more simply, a cramp. The thing is that it is rather difficult to suppress human instincts, and in a situation where we experience negative emotions and stress, the body regards this as a danger. Then he gives us a signal to take a defensive posture – tighten your neck and pull your head in. Due to the work of our instincts, the muscles spasm, blood flow worsens, and a person cannot relax until he calms down. If it is not possible to cope with the negative, the person “brings” his problems to bed, goes to bed with a spasm, which is why he experiences severe pain in the neck in the morning.
Uncomfortable bed, mattress or pillow
Neck pain in the morning after sleep can easily appear due to improper organization of a place to rest. If your pillows are too high, the base of the bed is too soft, this may be the problem. Neurologists advise choosing firmer mattresses and low pillows. Sometimes it is advisable to purchase special neck rolls or orthopedic pillows, which allows you to keep your head in the correct position during sleep.
In which case you should immediately go to the doctor
No need to self-medicate and procrastinate if neck pain persists for a long time. The point may be that a neoplasm has arisen, problems with blood vessels have appeared, as well as serious pathologies of the spinal column. Do not hesitate to visit the doctor if:

In general, do not hesitate to think about why your neck hurts after sleeping, it is best to visit a doctor right away and understand what caused the discomfort. This will allow you to sleep peacefully at night and feel great in the morning.
How to relieve pain yourself
It is important to remember that the average head weight is about 9kg, which is why it is so important to give your neck timely rest. If you feel tired, just lean back in your chair, relaxing your neck, or better yet, lie down on a comfortable pillow. This will help avoid spasms from overexertion. Painkillers such as Solpadein, Aspirin, Ibuprofen and others will also help get rid of neck pain after sleep. How to take them correctly is written in the instructions for the drug.
Set of exercises
Severe acute pain in the neck that occurs after sleep can be eliminated through physical exercises that are aimed at improving blood flow and strengthening the muscles of the neck.
If your neck starts to hurt after sleep, sit on a chair, straighten up and, holding your head straight, tighten your muscles, then tilt your head in different directions, back and forth, overcoming the tension. You need to hold the tension for 5-7 seconds, after which you need to rest for 10 seconds and repeat all over again. Or, while inhaling, you can press your hand on the temple so that neck resistance is created. Hold the tension for 5-7 seconds, rest for 10 seconds and repeat. You can also relax the body as much as possible, and then slowly begin to tilt the neck to one side, then to the other, so that the movements look like a pendulum. Repeat the exercise 10 times.
Prevention of neck pain
Acute sharp pain in the neck after waking up in the morning is easier to prevent than to treat. Try not to overcool, avoid overexertion and drafts. If your work is physically demanding, give yourself time to rest. It is recommended to do exercises and knead the muscles of the neck to strengthen them.
This is especially true for people who have to spend a lot of time in a sitting position.
You can make an appointment with specialists online , as well as by phone 8 (812) 901-03-03.
Neck hurts after sleep What to do?| Clinic “Zdravvay”
Neck hurts after sleep: causes of torment
When the neck hurts, it hurts to turn after sleep, many people rush to apply a compress with vodka or camphor oil. Some apply ice or, conversely, a towel soaked in warm water. This cannot be done, since the causes of pain can be very different – and some of them only aggravate the painful condition under the influence of cold or alcohol. Pain may be felt due to:
- Inflammatory processes are taking place in the body. They give severe acute pain, muscles and tissues swell.
- A person has contracted an infection. The pain is concentrated in the upper back, back or front of the neck. The only way to get rid of it is to eliminate the root cause of the disease.

- A tumor has formed in the upper part of the shoulder, due to which the muscles, tissues and roots were squeezed.
- Vessels affected. Pain spreads to the arms, head, chest and lower back. If the blood supply is disturbed, edema appears, the muscles are in constant tension.
The most unbearable pains are often caused by osteoporosis. The patient may wake up in the middle of the night from terrible sensations – in this case, it is permissible to drink painkillers. In women during menopause, the spine becomes unstable, which also leads to pain.
If your neck hurts after sleeping on an orthopedic pillow, the height of the pillow may be to blame. High pillows are only suitable for side sleeping, as they support the neck and shoulder girdle well in this position. For those who sleep on their backs, pillows with a maximum height of 10 cm and moderate firmness are recommended. It is advisable to buy a pillow with a notch for the neck. To sleep on your stomach, you should purchase a thin soft pillow with a maximum height of 8 cm.
Alternatively, you can do without a pillow at all or put it under your stomach so that your spine does not hurt. Sleeping on your stomach every night is not recommended, because of this, blood vessels in the area of \u200b\u200bthe spinal column are pinched.
When the neck hurts on the right side after sleep, this may indicate a clamped vertebral artery. It is a steam room and therefore provokes unilateral pain. A quality pillow filler will help to fix the problem. Latex and memorix are considered optimal materials. Latex is durable, does not provoke allergies, even children are allowed to sleep on it. Memorix, upon contact with the human body, heats up and adapts to the shape of this body. You can not be afraid of overheating, as the filler is well ventilated.
Your neck may become stiff in the morning because you decide to sleep longer than usual. The upper body had to be in a static position for too long, and blood circulation was disturbed in it.
Finally, the cause of suffering can be a sedentary lifestyle, an increased level of stress, the need to regularly carry a heavy bag on your shoulder.
Many people, under the influence of negative emotions, raise their shoulders, both or one, and tense their muscles. This creates a psychological illusion of protection for them, but leads to pain in the neck.
The whole gamut of pains
When the neck constantly hurts after sleep, unpleasant sensations can roll in unexpectedly or increase gradually. Pain can also be given inside the head, in the temples, in the ears or in the gums. There is a possibility of redness of the skin in the affected area, the appearance of swelling, a local increase in body temperature. In some patients, the problem area loses sensation or begins to tingle slightly. Fatigue of the neck muscles develops into general fatigue.
With osteochondrosis, the sensations may be different depending on which part of the spine is affected. With hernias, it is difficult to get out of bed, turn and bend over. The nature of the pain is paroxysmal. If the vertebral joints become inflamed, discomfort usually makes itself felt in the morning and less often at night.
With cervical osteochondrosis, the patient darkens under the eyes, as the blood supply to the brain is disturbed. Pain is given in the back of the head and scapula, heaviness is felt in the shoulder region. For chest osteochondrosis, monotonous aching pains are characteristic, which can also be given in the neck. When the patient stands or walks, he feels overstrain in different muscle groups.
X-ray and samples
When a patient turns to the doctor with the words “Neck pain after sleep, what should I do?”, the specialist will refer him to REG, ultrasound of the neck and brain vessels. It will also be necessary to conduct a CT or MRI of the cervical spine and an x-ray of the cervical spine with functional tests. To understand as accurately as possible how to get rid of neck pain after sleep, you may also need to take laboratory tests.
Treatment of neck pain does not tolerate self-activity
If your neck hurts badly after sleeping, get in a hot shower right after waking up.
A jet of water should be directed directly to the neck muscles to help them relax. If the pressure is strong enough, the sore spot will also receive a massage. After getting out of the shower, put a few drops of body oil on a dry cloth and rub your neck. This is where the self-employment ends. Further treatment of the spine and neck muscles should be prescribed by a doctor:
- external gels and ointments, anti-inflammatory and painkillers;
- therapeutic exercises;
- manual therapy;
- drug therapy;
- physiotherapy;
- acupuncture;
- blockade;
- surgery.
Blockades are intramuscular injections of drugs. During the session of manual therapy, the specialist will adjust the vertebral disc herniation by a non-surgical method, using articular, muscular and radicular techniques. With physiotherapy treatment, the best effect can be achieved with electrophoresis of the collar zone. Surgical interventions today are carried out mainly through punctures, without large incisions.
Hernias are destroyed by operations using radio waves.
Folk remedies may only be used with the prior approval of a physician. Compresses according to grandmother’s recipes can be applied to the problem area – but only if there are no tumors in the body, blood pressure and body temperature are not elevated.
Do not drink at night, learn to relax
To prevent pain in the neck and head after sleep, wean yourself from unobvious bad habits. Never fall asleep in a chair – this will cause your head to shift a lot forward or backward. While talking on the phone, do not press it with your shoulder. Plan your day so that it starts with active physical activity. Thus, your muscles will warm up and prepare for the upcoming loads.
While sitting at the computer, adjust the height of the monitor so that it is directly in front of your eyes. Don’t let yourself sit all day with your head down. Also adjust the chair and table according to your height.
If the neck hurts on the left side after sleep, this may be due to scoliosis.
Visit a health center to have your doctor recommend exercise therapy, swimming, massage, or physical therapy. At home, you can correct your posture as follows: lean your back against a flat wall so that there is a distance of about 2 cm between your heels and the plinth. Your buttocks and shoulders should fit snugly against the surface, while your shoulders should remain at the same level. Keep your chin straight and high, do not move away from the wall for 10 minutes, do this exercise every day.
Never drink alcohol before bed. First, it increases the risk of sleeping through the night in one position. Secondly, alcohol intoxication provokes a headache. Thirdly, the mechanisms of absorption of fluids are disrupted from alcohol, which causes swelling. However, edema can be caused even by the consumption of ordinary water before bedtime in large quantities
In order not to complain that the neck muscles hurt after sleep, learn to relax. Breathe deeply and evenly, let the tension gradually leave all parts of the body.


Avoid hunching your shoulders and bending your neck too far forward.



Non-pathological include an uncomfortable or incorrect sleeping position. This means that during rest, due to the incorrect position of the head, the nerve endings of the spinal cord are infringed, which leads to incorrect impulses to the brain about the need for muscle tension to protect the injured area. As a result, swelling can develop and severe burning pain in the neck appears. In this case, it is enough to do a little exercise, rub the sore spot and take a warm shower.