Neck pain
Most neck pain only lasts a few weeks. There are things you can do yourself to ease it, but see a GP if it does not go away.
Prescription review online
A doctor will review your case and issue a prescription if medically appropriate.
Talk to a doctor online
Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.
On this page
Medicines commonly prescribed for Neck pain
For informational purposes only. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication.
Dosage form: TOPICAL SOLUTION, 40 mg/mlActive substance: diclofenacManufacturer: Apotheke Laboratorios S.L.Prescription not requiredDosage form: ORAL SOLUTION/SUSPENSION, 100 mg ibuprofen / 5 mlActive substance: ibuprofenManufacturer: Nutra Essential Otc S.L.Prescription not requiredDosage form: ORAL SOLUTION/SUSPENSION, 600 mg ibuprofenActive substance: ibuprofenManufacturer: Industria Quimica Y Farmaceutica Vir S.A.Prescription required
Most neck pain only lasts a few weeks. There are things you can do yourself to ease it, but see a GP if it does not go away.
How you can ease neck pain yourself
Do
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take paracetamol or ibuprofen – or use ibuprofen gel on your neck
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use a low, firm pillow
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put heat or cold packs on your neck
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try neck flexibility exercises
Consult with a doctor about Neck pain
Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.
Don’t
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do not wear a neck collar – it's better to keep your neck moving (unless a doctor tells you not to)
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do not do anything that could be dangerous because you cannot move your neck – for example, driving or cycling
Putting heat or cold packs on your neck
Try either of these:
- a pack of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel for 5 minutes, 3 times a day
- a hot water bottle wrapped in a tea towel for 20 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day
You can also buy heat or cold packs from a pharmacy.
See a GP if:
- neck pain or stiffness does not go away after a few weeks
- painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen have not worked
- you're worried about the pain
- you have other symptoms, like pins and needles or a cold arm – this could be something more serious
What can cause neck pain
The most common causes of neck pain are:
- the neck becoming locked in an awkward position while sleeping
- bad posture – for example, when sitting at a desk for a long time
- a pinched nerve
- an injury – for example, whiplash from a traffic accident or fall
How you can prevent neck pain
Do
-
when sleeping, make sure your head is the same height as the rest of your body
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have a firm mattress
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sit upright – roll your shoulders back gently and bring your neck back
Don’t
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do not keep your neck in the same position for a long time – for example, when sitting at a desk
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do not sleep on your front
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do not twist your neck when you're in bed
Self-refer for treatment
If you have neck pain, you might be able to refer yourself directly to services for help with your condition without seeing a GP.
To find out if there are any services in your area:
- ask the reception staff at your GP surgery
- check your GP surgery's website
- contact your integrated care board (ICB) – find your local ICB
Online doctors for Neck pain
Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Neck pain with a doctor online.
