- Use an ice pack or ice wrapped in a cloth. Apply it to swollen or sore neck muscles for a few minutes.
- Dip a towel in hot water and wring it out, then apply it to the stiff neck.
- Take a hot shower to relieve tension and relax tight shoulders and muscles.
- Apply a muscle ointment or liniment along the sore neck muscles.
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Use an over-the-counter pain reliever such as aspirin, acetaminophen or another analgesic for minor aches and pains.
- Gently rotate the head and neck clockwise, then counter-clockwise to stretch stiff muscles.
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Replace a standard pillow with an orthopedic pillow that supports the neck during sleep.
