Whether you are sitting hunched over a computer at your desk all day, or using your phone or tablet for long periods, or carrying heavy loads, or working in a manual job, pain in the neck is a common problem caused by all sorts of activities. Here are four things you must do to prevent the tiny niggle from becoming a chronic problem.

Sleeping position : A good sleeping position is the one that keeps your spine and the joints correctly aligned. When lying on your side take the hand that rests closes to the bed and place it under your neck. Feel for any upward or downward tilt on your pillow.

Do Tai Chi : The slow, controlled, meditative movements of Tai Chi are just effective as traditional rehabilitation exercise for the neck.

Check your glasses : Wearing wrong numbered glasses will force you to push your neck forwards to read a computer screen. Holding these sorts of postures for long time can lead to neck pain and strain.

Nordic Walking : It is an enhanced form of walking using poles. It eases back and neck pain. Using Nordic Walking poles with the correct technique helps pull the shoulder blades down which can alleviate neck and shoulder pain.