Question

I am 45 and have noticed stiffness in my neck when I wake up and it is constantly bothering me in my daily task as a truck driver.

I turn my head a lot when I am reversing and it limits my mobility as a driver! Is this common in men my age or a poor sleeping posture?
 

Answer

You do not mention whether this neck stiffness is a new occurrence or not. You need to know that treatment for stiff neck depends entirely on the underlying cause, so perhaps you yourself may realize just what is causing your neck stiffness.
 

More often it's muscle strain that's responsible, either from exercise or because of a hectic lifestyle. Straining the neck muscles, as with prolonged use or severe exercise, can cause them to become stiff and sometimes painful. Sudden or frequent turning of the head, as you say you do whilst performing your work, or sleeping with too many pillows can be the cause. Trying to cradle a phone in between the ear and shoulder without using your hands is a common modern-day culprit. A person who has a stiff neck from sleeping in an incorrect position may need to use a different pillow at night. A person who has a stiff neck from an injury may need physical therapy, pain relief medication, and hot or cold packs to reduce stiffness and pain if it is present.. A person with a stiff neck caused by Stress may need counselling to learn stress management techniques. Some neck injuries may be treated with a cervical collar to help support the head.
 

More often than not, the problem corrects itself within 24 to 48 hours. If your frequent head turning whilst driving proves to be the cause of your neck stiffness, a physiotherapist or osteopath can help. Ensure the one you see is appropriately qualified. They can also teach you exercises to strengthen your neck muscles, to try and prevent it happening again, and to learn how to relax your neck and shoulder muscles. If it should keep happening despite this, or if the symptoms appear to be getting worse, then consult your own doctor for advice.
 

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Neck Pain
Stress Management
Relaxation Techniques