Neck and Shoulder Pain Syndrome is quite common and can occur at any age, but it is most frequently seen in the elderly and office workers.

This condition is a type of neuromuscular disorder caused by sudden, localized muscle stiffness or damage to the bones, joints, or cervical vertebrae. It leads to discomfort such as pain, stiffness, numbness, and aching in the neck and shoulder region.

According to medical experts, there are several causes of neck and shoulder pain, with the most common factors being:

6 Things You Should Never Do If You Have Neck and Shoulder Pain (They Damage Your Bones, Joints, and Even Your Stomach)

Sedentary lifestyle

People who are inactive or who spend long hours sitting in front of computers or TVs often experience nerve compression in the neck, poor blood circulation, and insufficient blood supply to the neck and shoulders. This leads to localized ischemia and, over time, chronic neck and shoulder pain.

Self-medicating with painkillers

Many people take painkillers when neck pain becomes uncomfortable or limits movement. However, this is a dangerous mistake. Painkillers only mask the symptoms without addressing the root cause, allowing the condition to worsen. Additionally, prolonged use of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs can harm the liver and kidneys. Some even inject medications into the painful area, which only provides temporary relief but often causes the pain to return more quickly.

Working in poor posture

A major reason neck and shoulder pain keeps recurring is improper posture during daily activities or work. Because these habits form over many years, patients often find it hard to correct them. Poor posture increases strain and worsens neck and shoulder pain.

Carrying or lifting heavy loads

Frequently carrying heavy or unevenly distributed loads places additional pressure on the neck and shoulders. People who regularly lift or carry heavy objects are at higher risk of developing chronic neck and shoulder pain. Since this region contains many muscles, tendons, and ligaments, long-term strain can cause compression, numbness, and persistent pain.

Sleeping on a desk or in poor posture

Many people nap at their desks or lean back awkwardly in chairs, especially when overworked. Sleeping in these improper positions strains the neck and shoulder muscles, leading to stiffness and pain. For example, resting with the head tilted to one side creates muscle imbalance, puts pressure on the cervical spine, and over time can cause spinal and chronic shoulder pain.

Smoking

Smoking harms the body as a whole, but it is particularly damaging to bones and joints. Nicotine damages blood vessels, reduces blood flow to the spine, and increases the risk of disc problems. Smoking also causes dehydration, reducing the cushioning in spinal discs and making the cervical spine more vulnerable to injury. People suffering from neck and shoulder pain should plan to quit smoking, as prolonged smoking makes symptoms much worse.

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4 Tips to Prevent Neck and Shoulder Pain:

• Exercise regularly and choose routines that suit your condition.

• Maintain a balanced schedule of work and rest; take breaks when sitting for long periods.

• When reading, studying, or typing, keep your neck straight and avoid bending forward for too long. Maintain proper posture.

• Eat a balanced diet and supplement with essential nutrients such as calcium, potassium, and vitamins B, C, and E.