What can I do about my tense neck?

What can I do about really tense neck muscles?

• I go to my chiropractor about every 3 weeks, he says I don't need to come in sooner. My neck is always really stiff and it hurts sometimes, it makes my face and head feel ...show more

• Answer:

  First off, DON'T crack your neck. It may feel like it relieves the pain, but it weakens your neck and makes you more prone to problems later on. Your problem may be a muscle imbalance in your neck or even a problem deeper down your spine. I won't get too far into the science of it but here's some things you can do. Stretch your neck from side to side plus massage the area (deep massage, not just a little rubbing). You should get a different pillow or use 2 pillows, but instead of resting your head on it, put the pillow more under your neck to support it.