Neck pain self-care
Most neck pain is caused by muscle strain, poor posture or sleeping awkwardly, and settles within a few days or weeks. Simple self-care usually helps. This section explains what you can do at home and when to get medical advice.
Get advice about your symptoms
If you are unwell and unsure what to do, use one of the routes below. They are free and available across the UK, and can direct you to the right service.
- Check your symptoms online at 111.nhs.uk
- Call 111 for free 24-hour advice from NHS 111
- Speak to a pharmacist for advice on minor problems — no appointment needed
- Contact your GP for non-urgent medical problems
Call 999 immediately in a life-threatening emergency — for example loss of consciousness, severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe bleeding or a suspected stroke.
What this section covers
- Common causes of neck pain
- Self-care: gentle movement, heat, over-the-counter pain relief
- Warning signs that mean you should get advice sooner
- When to call 999 (severe injury, weakness in the arms or legs)
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