Chronic Neck Pain Relief: Harvard Health Publications publishes special report

Doctors estimate that seven out of ten people will be troubled by neck pain at some point in their lives. Although this pain can be intense, it rarely requires surgery and responds well to self-help techniques. What To Do About Neck Pain , a special health report published by Harvard Health Publications , describes the anatomy of neck pain, discusses common diagnostic methods and treatment options, and offers simple steps to prevent, ease, and manage neck pain.

Neck pain is common because the neck supports the heavy weight of the head while still allowing it to tilt, turn, and nod easily. Usually, necks begin to ache after years of normal use, overuse, and misuse. What To Do About Neck Pain discusses various daily activities that can cause neck pain and suggests tips for preventing injury while exercising, as well as ways to avoid risks at work.

Recently, health professionals have placed treatment of neck pain in the hands of the patient. This special health report defines different types of neck-related pain including muscle, nerve, spasm, and referred pain, as well as non-pain symptoms such as stiffness and limited range of motion. If a visit to your doctor is necessary, understanding and conveying symptoms is helpful in determining the source of neck pain.

What To Do About Neck Pain also includes sections about medication, strength and stretching exercises, and relaxation therapies that can help minimize pain.

Here's one of the simple neck stretches and exercises illustrated in the report:

1. Sit in a neutral position looking straight ahead.
2. Stretch your neck downward, moving your chin toward your chest. Hold for 10 seconds.
3. Slowly tilt your head one inch to the right, and to the left.

What To Do About Neck Pain is available from Harvard Health Publications and can be purchased for $16 at www.health.harvard.edu or by calling 1-877-649-9457 toll-free.