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Ergonomics in the workplace
a lady touches his neck while looking down

Neck pain: A common problem with simple solutions

Neck pain and stiffness are common issues that can affect your sleep, concentration, and performance at work. If you're dealing with neck pain, you're certainly not alone. But there are ways to ease it. In this guide, we explain the most common symptoms and causes of neck pain, along with practical tips to help you relieve discomfort and prevent it from returning.
Neck pain can have many causes - from poor posture and prolonged sitting to stress, muscle strain or even a herniated disc. In some cases, it may be linked to an underlying medical condition. Because many types of neck pain share similar symptoms, it can be hard to pinpoint the exact cause without professional advice.
illustration of a person suffering from neck pain
Neck pain can present in many different ways, some of the most common symptoms include:
  • Difficulty tilting the head
  • Stiff neck
  • Neck pain with headache
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Pain or radiating pain in the arm
  • Dizziness
  • Neck pain that radiates up to the head
A sudden, sharp pain or stiffness in the neck is commonly referred to as torticollis or a neck spasm. It’s often described as the neck “locking up” and can make turning or tilting the head painful, especially to one side. This condition is similar to a back spasm but affects the neck muscles. Common causes of stiff neck include rapid or repetitive head movements, poor posture while working, sleeping in an awkard position or high levels of stress.

Whiplash is a type of neck injury caused by sudden force or trauma, often during a road traffic accident, especially if the vehicle is hit from behind. The neck is rapidly thrown backwards and forwards, straining the soft tissues which leads to reduced mobility, pain and headaches or shoulder discomfort.
illustration that compares a correct and a wrong posture
Neck pain can also be triggered by a range of physical factors and conditions. These include:
  • Heavy lifting
  • Repetitive or monotonous tasks
  • Muscle pain in the neck and shoulders (myalgia)
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints)
...and more

There are plenty of simple steps you can take, both at home and at work, to help prevent neck pain. Here are some practical tips: 
illustration comparing a wrong sitting position and a correct sitting position
Exercises: Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help reduce neck pain and lower the risk of future problems. Simple movements, like gently tilting your head to one side and holding for a few seconds before repeating on the other side, can make a real difference in strengthening neck muscles and easing tension.
Are you already experiencing neck pain and can't get rid of it? Then you may need help through muscle therapy, massage and acupuncture, joint manipulation or physiotherapy. You can also turn to a chiropractor or naprapath, for example.

Simple forms of treatment when neck pain has just started:
  • Painkillers
  • Heat (e.g. wheat pillow)
  • Rest and relaxation
  • Relieve the entire spine by lying on the floor with your lower legs on a chair

Seek medical attention if the pain does not go away within two weeks and emergency care if you have a severe headache or have been in an accident.
Hurray chair by AJ Products in elegant office
Choosing an ergonomic office chair with an adjustable backrest and built-in neck support helps keep your spine aligned and reduces strain on your neck and shoulders. Our HURRAY office chair is a perfect example - designed with comfort, support and adjustability in mind to help you work better for longer.
A heigh-adjustable desk allows you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the workday. This simple change can boost circulation, improve posture and support better ergonomics. For maximum comfort, pair your desk with a standing mat to reduce fatigue and ergonomic armrests to ease pressure on your arms, shoulders, and back.
two people chatting beside a height adjustable desk by AJ Products
a desk with a monitor arm attached holding the computer screen
Monitor arms make it easy to adjust the height, depth and angle of your screens, helping you achieve a comfortable and ergonic working position. Whether you're working with one screen or several, a monitor arm helps reduce neck and eye strain by keeping your monitor at the right level for you.
A saddle chair  promotes a natural riding posture, which helps maintain the spine’s natural curve. This ergonomic seating position eases pressure on the shoulders, hips, and knees at the same time, encouraging better posture and comfort throughout the day.
an office worker sitting on a saddle chair by AJ Products
If you're experiencing neck pain, gentle movement is often the best approach, stay as active as your neck allows. Try to limit time spent on phones and computers and assess your workstation setup, as poor ergonomics are a common cause. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

FAQ

Neck pain, sometimes referred to as acute torticollis, is a common condition that causes stiffness and discomfort in the neck, often due to muscle tension, poor posture, repetitive movement or stress. It may come on suddenly and affect your ability to move your head comfortably or concentrate at work.
Whiplash is a neck injury that most often affects the soft tissues of the neck. It is usually caused by sudden movements that cause a rapid back-and-forth movement of the head, for example in car accidents.
A pinched nerve in the neck can cause sharp pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness that often radiates into the shoulder, arm or hand. You may also notice reduced mobility or a “pins and needles” sensation. If symptoms persist, seek medical advice.