There’s no question that tension and stress can manifest itself in the body. Whether it’s a headache or tight muscles, psychological factors can take a toll on our physical body.

If stress-induced neck pain does not subside after a week or two of self-care, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment

How stress triggers pain

Stress-induced neck pain is defined as pain that is either triggered or worsened by psychological or emotional factors. For example, the initial neck pain may be caused by an injury that strains the muscles in the neck, but the pain continues for days or weeks afterward as stress caused by the injury or other factors builds—maybe even long after the muscle tissue has healed from the initial accident.

That’s not to say that stress-induced neck pain is “all in your head”—the pain and symptoms are very real. It’s just that the causes are not physical in nature.

Some experts think that stress-induced neck pain is caused by a physical factor: namely, a low but constant level of activity in the trapezius muscles that stretch from the back of neck out to the upper shoulders. However, studies found no correlation between neck pain and muscle activity.1 The only positive connection was between neck pain and perceived tension/stress.2

6 tips to tackle stress-induced neck pain

By focusing on ways to treat both the mind and the body, you can help lessen stress and the toll it can take on you. Try these methods to manage stress-induced neck pain:

See Trigger Point Exercises for Neck Pain

See Healing Benefits of Yoga

1. Neck stretches
   If done regularly, stretching exercises for the neck can loosen muscle tightness and maintain or expand range of motion for the neck. Try these 2 stretches to get started.
2. Therapy or support group
   Cognitive behavioral therapy has proven benefits for helping to develop healthy thought patterns, but even a support group or online forum where you can share your concerns and receive support can help you manage day-to-day stressors.

   Visit our very active Spine-health Forum to find online support.

3. Meditation
   Practicing meditation is a good way to calm your thoughts and anxieties. Look for a guided meditation video on YouTube or attend a class to learn how.
4. Enlisting help from family and friends
   You don’t have to tackle stress alone; let your family and friends help carry the load. Be clear about ways they can help you—ask if a friend can run an errand for you, or assign your children extra chores around the house during stressful periods.
5. Massage
   Massage is not only relaxing and stress-relieving overall, but it can specifically ease the tightness of the muscles of the neck and shoulders.

   See Massage Chairs for Pain Relief

6. Exercise
   Exercise is good for your body and mind. It releases endorphins, a hormone that dulls pain and generates feelings of well-being.

   See Low-Impact Aerobic Exercise

7. Prioritizing
   You’re not a superhero—let inconsequential things go if they’re taking a toll on your health. Focus on what’s most important and don’t worry if things further down the priority list get delayed or undone for a while.

See Noninvasive Pain Management Techniques

If your stress-induced neck pain is not relieved by a week or two of self-care, see your doctor. He or she can offer other treatment option and diagnose possible underlying conditions.

See Diagnosing Neck Pain

Learn more

Stiff Neck Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

9 Lesser-Known Tips for Easing Neck Pain