DEAR DR. GOTT: Since last June, I have experienced tight neck muscles that make it a problem to sleep and drive my car. I’ve tried everything except acupuncture. My doctor is unconcerned. I’m 70 and in good health. I exercise three or four times a week on a stationary bike, garden and walk. Can you help me?
DEAR READER: There are 33 vertebrae in the spine, seven of which are in the neck. The neck holds up your head, which, on average, weighs about 10 pounds. With poor posture, even a few centimeters of poorly distributed weight can place an enormous burden on the neck muscles. So muscles tighten up as a defense mechanism and cause pain. Other than posture, other possible causes are osteoarthritis of the neck, fibromyalgia, polymyalgia rheumatica and hypothyroidism.
I recommend you see a sports therapist or request a referral to the physical-therapy department of your local hospital. You can be taught proper exercises that will strengthen the neck and, I hope, eliminate pain and stiffness.
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